The Summer Suit Guide: How to Stay Cool and Look Sharp with Boutique Jacques

As the mercury rises, it can be a sartorial challenge to stay cool while maintaining your signature style. At Boutique Jacques in Montreal, we understand the need for comfort without compromising sophistication. We have curated this summer suit guide to help you navigate through the best fabrics, colours, and cuts for summer suits, along with tips on how to style them.

Best Fabrics for Summer Suits

1. Linen: With its lightweight texture and breathability, linen is a summer staple. The natural fibre allows for excellent airflow, keeping you cool during the warmest months. Though prone to wrinkles, a linen suit can provide a relaxed yet elegant look, perfect for both casual and semi-formal occasions.

2. Cotton: Cotton suits are a versatile choice for summer. As a natural fibre, cotton is breathable and typically more resistant to wrinkles than linen. For hot but potentially rainy summer days in Montreal, a cotton suit is a great option.

3. Seersucker: Known for its distinctive puckered appearance, seersucker is traditionally a striped cotton fabric. Its crimped structure allows for better air circulation, making it a superb choice for those sweltering summer days.

4. Fresco Wool: Though wool might seem counterintuitive for summer, fresco wool is a different story. This high-twist fabric is woven in a way that creates small air pockets, allowing for exceptional breathability.

Choosing Colours and Cuts

1. Colours: Lighter hues such as beige, light grey, and pastel shades are preferred in the summer months. They reflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption. Don't shy away from bolder colours or patterns, though. Summer is a great time to experiment with your style.

2. Cuts: Opt for unstructured or half-lined jackets. They're lighter and provide better ventilation. Remember, a well-tailored suit is essential, regardless of the season.

Styling Your Summer Suit

1. Shirts: Stick with lightweight materials like cotton or linen. Light colours or classic white are always safe options, but don't be afraid to incorporate some summer patterns for a more relaxed look.

2. Accessories: Consider a pocket square or a tasteful lapel pin to add some flair. If neckties feel too restrictive in the heat, try a casual linen tie or forego it entirely for a modern, open-collar look.

3. Footwear: Loafers, brogues or derbies in light shades can complement your summer suit perfectly. Remember to match your belt with your shoes for a cohesive look.

4. Maintenance: Store your suits properly to avoid damage from moisture and insects. Use wooden hangers for shape retention, and consider a professional cleaning at the end of the season.