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14 Best Summer Suits for Men, Tested by Style Experts

Look sharp sans the sweat.

By

We’ve all been there... fully dressed in the summer heat with sweat dripping down our back. All you want to do is shed your shirt and pants and cool the fuck off. Still, certain occasions in summer warrant something spiffier than your go-to shorts and tee, something that frames your body, and shows others that you’re the master of your domain. Nothing telegraphs that better than a suit. But before you reach for any ol’ thing on the rack, know that the best suits for summer are those built to withstand the heat.

When choosing a suit, pay attention to three major factors: fabric, silhouette, and color. Suits vary and some styles work better in certain seasons and for specific occasions than others. And if you have a wedding, a big meeting, or other professional event to attend in the coming weeks, throwing on layers of corduroy, wool, or cashmere in navy and black will be pretty miserable. Back sweat is a real thing, folks. So, to help you avoid that scenario, our style experts rounded up the best summer suits to wear in 2024 and for all future warm weather occasions.

Best performance summer suit

Lululemon New Venture Blazer

New Venture Blazer
Now 40% Off
$119 at Lululemon

Ah, Lululemon. The brand that made athleisure super cool also has suits that offer equal parts comfort and style—and will work for you come rain or shine. This blazer, for example, is made of a water-repellent fabric with two-way stretch. It's lightweight, easy to care for, travel- and commute-friendly, so you can always feel free to move around at your leisure. Ditto that for the pants, which are equally stretchy and comfy. They also come with a hidden zipper pocket to keep your keys and card safe and flip-up cuffs with light-reflecting details for early-morning (or late-night) outings.

ABC Pants

$128 At Lululemon

One reviewer says: "Great cut, look, and fit. Perfect travel blazer that works for business as well as the casual-nice evening out. Love mine so much that I bought one for my father-in-law."

Fabric77% Polyester, 23% Elastomultiester
FitCasual
LiningYes
Colors3
Best Cotton-Linen Summer Suit

J.Crew Ludlow Suit Jacket

Ludlow Suit Jacket

The Ludlow put J.Crew’s tailoring on the map when it debuted in 2008. Over the years, the just-slim-enough silhouette has been made of every material, from wool to seersucker to corduroy—and also in every conceivable color and pattern. In 2017, the brand brought to market the unconstructed Ludlow suit, which became an instant best-seller. Not only is it the most versatile suit you can own, but it's also unpadded, so there are unlimited ways to wear it. So, if you're looking for a professional vibe in the summer, our style experts recommend the cotton-linen option in subtle blue as the Ludlow of choice.

Ludlow Suit Pants

$128 At J Crew

One reviewer says: "Best linen suit ever, and after two years of wear, it still looks new."

Fabric72% Cotton, 28% Linen
FitSlim
LiningYes
Colors6
Best Striped Summer Suit

Todd Snyder Madison Suit Jacket

Madison Suit Jacket

A striped suit often calls to mind one of two characters: Beetlejuice or Patrick Bateman. Neither can be seen in Todd Snyder’s take on the ubiquitous pattern. Made of a cotton-linen blend, this single-breasted two-piece is impeccably tailored and easy to wear; it nips and hangs loose in just the right areas. And the details are not to be missed: a butterfly lining (so even fewer layers), a double-vent in the back of the jacket, and sleek front pleats on trousers. Our testers especially love the Italian linen fabric, made by the family-run Tessuti di Sondrio mill, which was founded in 1895 and is one of Italy’s most revered cotton fabric weavers.

Madison Suit Pants

$268 At Todd Snyder

One reviewer says: "It's exactly what I was looking for! Soft, lightweight, formal but not overly so, and a perfect fit."

Fabric100% Linen
FitTailored
LiningYes
ColorsEcru
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Most Colorful Summer Suit

Richard James Hyde Suit Jacket

Hyde Suit Jacket

Richard James is a brand known to many who frequent Savile Row. Its suits are tailored and cast in an array of bright colors that make an elegant statement. This double-breasted two-piece represents that credo but is made more summer-ready with linen in an effervescent shade of pink. The Hyde jacket is detailed with sharp peak lapels, slanted flap pockets, and a smooth lining, and the matching pants feature a straight leg, side adjusters, and a zip fastening.

Suit Trousers

$577 At Mr. Porter

One reviewer says: "This is possibly the best thing that Richard James has ever made. It's that good."

Fabric53% Linen, 46% Wool
FitTailored
LiningYes
ColorsPink
Most Comfortable Summer Suit

Brunello Cucinelli Herringbone Suit

Herringbone Suit

Brunello Cucinelli is the name to know if you’re a fan of perfectly cut classic tailoring in muted tones. His suits are elegant—and arguably look just as good as separates as they do as a whole fit—unfussy and unpretentious, which is just the way we like it at Esquire. And there might not be a more comfortable blend than linen and cotton when it comes to keeping cool. This suit is lightweight and breathable and gives a subtle nod to the suit styles of the 1980s. Factor in the sleek trousers, and you have the most versatile suit around.

One reviewer says: "Best deal in the game for the overall level of quality, fit, and value."

Fabric100% Linen, Cotton Lining
FitClassic
LiningYes
ColorsBeige
best casual summer suit

Banana Republic Suit Jacket

Suit Jacket

A loose chambray shirt with some fitted jeans and a whole lot of swagger is the quintessential summer look. But if a situation calls for something a bit dressier, try a délavé blue-colored suit from the always-reliable Banana Republic—a brand that never ceases to offer goods that are sharp, comfortable, and reasonably priced. This specific option is made with lightweight and breathable linen fabric and is finished with intricate pick stitch detailing and a half lining to ensure you'll always keep cool even when the weather is not.

Corcoran Suit Pants

$200 At Banana Republic

One reviewer says: "Classic style with beautiful fabric. A definite staple in my wardrobe.'

Fabric58% Viscose Rayon, 42% Organic Cotton
FitSlim
LiningYes
ColorsCerulean Blue
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best overall summer suit

Suitsupply Havana Suit

Havana Suit

No roundup of suits, regardless of the season, would be complete without Suitsupply. No matter the type of suit you're looking for, they have it all. Seriously. In addition to suits, it also offers polos, dress shirts, trousers, and more, making it an easy one-stop shop. And as long as they keep turning out suits like this one—cut slim from cotton by Italy’s E.Thomas mill and featuring a single-breasted closure, streamlined jetted pockets, and a boat-shaped breast pocket—that’s not changing.

One reviewer says: "Really high-quality suit. I got so many compliments on it at the event I wore it for last week. True to size with no alterations necessary."

Fabric60% Linen, 40% Cotton
FitSlim
LiningYes
ColorsOff-White
best seersucker summer suit

Bonobos Jetsetter Suit

Jetsetter Suit

Leave it to the clothing whizzes at Bonobos to make a striped suit in seersucker with a little bit of elastane for some added breathability. The brand understands that no two men are built the same, which is why they offer slim, athletic, or standard style options for this suit. And while our experts love the olive and white stripe print, if that's not your thing, it comes in two other colorways.

One reviewer says: "Such a nice suit and the price is great."

Fabric99% Cotton, 1% Elastane
FitSlim, Athletic, Standard
LiningYes
Colors3
best linen summer suit

Robert Graham Suit Jacket

Suit Jacket

Easy, breezy, and always elegant: That’s what encapsulates Robert Graham’s best. The brand’s blazers—this one made of lightweight linen—typically boast a tailored but not too slim fit, meaning they only get better the more you wear them. This tailored shape will also help accentuate your body by comfortably tapering the waist for a more streamlined effect. The trousers? Well, they’re made to match, both in fabric and in feel. Plus, they come with an unfinished hem and extended tab button closure to finish the look.

Delave Suit Pants

$268 At Bloomingdale's

One reviewer says: "This suit is subtle and fun at the same time."

Fabric100% Linen
FitSlim
LiningYes
Colors2
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most breathable summer suit

Spier & MacKay Peak Lapel Suit

Peak Lapel Suit

Master of all things pleated, Spier & MacKay has the perfect suit to lounge in as soon as the warmer weather hits. The brand’s styles are so lightweight you won’t feel like you’re wearing a two-piece at all, and wearing a suit for fun is the biggest flex. It also has moisture-wicking properties, a breathable construction, and is designed with unpadded shoulders, peak lapels, and a quarter-lining to maximize breathability. Oh, and let's not forget about the unbeatable price point—a whole suit for $498? That's a damn steal.

One reviewer says: "This suit has far exceeded my expectations! It's the perfect choice for an outdoor summer wedding."

Fabric100% Linen
FitTailored
LiningYes
ColorsGreen
best affordable summer suit

1PA1 Suit

Suit

Made from high-quality linen, this affordable suit by 1PA1 is lightweight, breathable, and perfect for high temps. The brand prides itself in aligning design and affordable prices to create top-of-the-line essentials, and this suit is no exception. With just the right amount of shine, a classic 2-button closure, and a hem vent for a freer range of movement, it will turn heads in every room you’re in.

One reviewer says: "This suit fits much better than I thought a suit off Amazon ever would. Not to mention that the fabric feels like that of a much more expensive suit. I'm so glad I made this purchase."

Fabric100% Linen
FitSlim
LiningYes
Colors6
best patterned summer suit

Saks Fifth Avenue Suit

Suit

Leave it to Saks Fifth Avenue to bring something unexpected to traditional styles. Case in point: this tailored single-button suit made of a cotton-and-wool blend. It’s as refined as it is comfortable, and it’s definitely a fit that’ll allow you to hang loose. It features notch lapels, chest welt pockets, two side slips, and a two-button closure for a handsome and elevated look.

One reviewer says: "I researched quite a few suits before choosing this one, and was very pleased with the fit and quality. I'm fairly slim and only needed to make alterations for the arm length; it fit quite closely off the rack, without being overly constrictive."

Fabric51% Virgin Wool, 49% Cotton
FitCasual
LiningYes
ColorsGrey
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best summer suit under $500

Abercrombie & Fitch Blazer

Blazer

Oh, Abercrombie. We know, it might be shocking for you to see it on this list due to the brand's iconic mall presence (and shirtless dudes), but it also produces impressive suits. This linen-blend option is the perfect affordable style and has a classic fit, ultra-soft lining, and double back vents for added mobility and comfort. Wear the blazer and trousers separately, or wear them together, but whatever you decide, we suggest buying both regardless.

Abercrombie & Fitch Suit Pants

$100 at Abercrombie

One reviewer says: "You can't go wrong with this suit. It's great for anything from getting casual drinks with friends to wearing it to a wedding. It's definitely one of the most used pieces in my closet."

Fabric57% Cotton, 23% Viscose, 20% Linen
FitRelaxed
LiningYes
Colors2
best iconic summer suit

Brooks Brothers Sack Suit

Sack Suit

The No. 1 Sack Suit was first introduced to the world by Brook's Brothers in 1910 (yeah, that's how long these guys have been in the game) and was recently reintroduced (Spring, 2024) to the masses with the same heritage details. It has a signature 3/2 roll lapel, unpadded shoulders, undated front, and plain-front trousers, and comes with a cotton-stretch fabric that will let you move with ease. This suit has not only been a favorite of those who have taken up residency in the White House, but also sports stars and A-listers alike—it's a true American classic.

One reviewer says: "I am so thankful that Brooks Brothers finally brought this suit back. I can't wait to grab it in every other color."

Fabric98% Cotton, 2% Elastane
FitRegular
LiningYes
ColorsMulti

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What to Look For in a Summer Suit

best summer suits men

Here are a few essential things to keep in mind when shopping for a summer suit:

Fabric:
The choice of material is what differentiates a summer suit from, say, one you'd wear to a winter wedding. Look for fabrics that are easy, breezy, and lightweight and allow for maximum air circulation. Some of the best options include cotton, linen, seersucker, silk, and tech fibers—or blends of two or more of these fibers. Fabric is essential because it will not only help wick away sweat but will also help regulate your body temperature, which is crucial in the warmer months.

Silhouette: It is best to avoid styles with an excess of fabric and ones that could look ill-fitting when not properly tailored to your body. You also want to stay clear of options that are too constricting; let your body breathe a little. A lot of the suits on this list are made with added vents, so this will also help you to feel less contained, even when it is a slimmer fit.

Color: Dark colors attract heat. It's science. So if you want to keep things light, try suits in cream, soft shades of gray or blue, or, if you want to be adventurous, pink. But of course, it's summer, which means you're allowed to be a little more laid-back and loose, so our style experts also suggest opting for a patterned or lightly textured option. And if you must wear standard black or navy, make sure the fabric is summer-friendly.

Fit: While this all comes down to personal preference, our experts suggest finding a summer suit in one of the following fits:

Slim Fit—A slim fit offers a tailored look without being too tight, which will also create a slimming effect down the body and enhance breathability.
Lightweight Construction—To reduce weight and increase comfort, opt for a half-lined or unlined jacket. Many of the options on this list are crafted this way, so our experts did the work for you.
Relaxed Shoulders—Natural or slightly padded shoulders offer ease of movement and less structure. That way, when you're popping, locking, and dropping it at your cousin's summer wedding, you don't have to worry about embarrassing pit stains.
Breathable Trousers—Slim but not tight trousers allow for extra airflow and mobility, and if we haven't made it clear before, that is essential when it comes to summer suits.

How We Chose The Best Summer Suit

shape, rectangle

A few key factors were considered to create a list of the best 14 summer suits for men.

Budget: Just as all summer suits are different, so are all budgets. That’s why on this list, you’ll find options that range from $110 to $5,000.

Reviews: Not only did our reviewers test hundreds of different suit styles to bring you the best options for summer, but we also paid close attention to consumer comments. We wanted to ensure that every pick on this list was lightweight, comfortable, and breathable, which is why we searched for as much input to help inform our selections.

Material: As we mentioned above, material is one of the most important things to consider when selecting a suit for the summer. That’s why we narrowed down this list to include only fabrics that will keep you cool and breezy and won’t turn you into a puddle before the night is over.

Why You Should Trust Esquire

shape, rectangle

We’re not going to say something is great unless it’s actually great. Every product in Esquire’s roundups is carefully curated by our fashion and e-commerce teams.

When it comes to summer suits, you can rest assured that we’re hand-selecting styles that we’ve personally tested, tried, and loved, along with styles that the rest of our stylish colleagues here at Esquire endorse for their own wear. We’ve had to go through a lot of trial and error, and these summer suits are the ones that are simply the best.

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