Menswear experts provide fashion tips for summer office attire

For young professionals like Michael Jennings II, a 30-year-old financial advisor in downtown Syracuse, personal style can be crucial to building one’s brand.

“When I leave work, and I stop at the grocery store, people acknowledge me in some way or another, like ‘Oh, hey, you look good’ or ‘that’s a very nice suit,'” Jennings said. “It is a kind of signifier, I guess, of this is a person that means business.”

However, Jennings said that styling is more difficult in the summer months. Putting on a full suit in 90-degree weather is not fun, he said. As new graduates and interns enter the workforce this summer, menswear experts weigh in on how to level up your wardrobe for work in the warmer months.

Loosen up the fit

The tight suits of the 2010s are on their way out, said Chino Ingram, the manager of Mr. Shop, a menswear store in downtown Syracuse.

“There was a time where, you know, some of the clothes looked like they were almost painted on,” he said. “This summer and going into the fall, the really slim look is starting to loosen up a little bit. I think it’s getting to be a lot more comfortable and stylish as opposed to almost stiff and tight.”

Go for lighter colors and fabrics

Summer is the time for linens, said Barbra Horowitz, a personal stylist from Los Angeles. She praised linens as more than just a breathable fabric.

“It’s very good for the environment. And it also just gives somebody a look,” she said.

As for colors, light blue, ivory, chocolate brown, and beige are classic summer options and can be combined to elevate your look.

“A sand dune polo and a white pant. You know, maybe you could turn around and do a chocolate brown suede belt and a chocolate brown loafer,” Horowitz said.

You could even opt for a monochromatic look. An all-ivory outfit is always sure to catch the eye, she said.

Get it tailored

When the weather is warm, it’s even more important that your clothes fit perfectly, which tailoring achieves best, said Ingram from Mr. Shop.

“You’re going to guarantee that it’s going to fit the way it’s supposed to fit, but it’s also going to be something that you can customize,” he said.

Comfort and ventilation are key on a hot day, and tailors help you achieve that.

“They keep that classic look, and they still make it comfortable and still make it look good, based on your specific body type,” said Jennings.