What to Wear to a Summer Cocktail Party (Without Melting)
Let’s be honest—summer cocktail parties are tricky. You want to look sharp, but the last thing you want is to sweat through a sport coat before you’ve even grabbed a drink. So how do you strike that perfect balance of polished and breathable?
We’ve got you.
Whether it’s a garden party, rooftop bash, or backyard soirée, the key to dressing right is choosing smart, summer-ready brands that work just as hard as you do. At Giblees, we’ve curated a selection of men’s brands that make dressing for warm-weather occasions feel effortless.
Start with the Shirt
When temperatures rise, your shirt does a lot of the heavy lifting. For a crisp and elevated look, Eton and David Donahue offer tailored dress shirts made from lightweight, breathable fabrics. Prefer something a little more relaxed? Faherty and Johnnie-O give you that casual coastal vibe while still keeping things cocktail-appropriate.
Skip the Suit (But Not the Style)
You don’t need a tie to make an impression. Instead, opt for a tailored polo from Greyson or a knit crewneck from Grand Sasso layered under an unstructured blazer by Fradi. These pieces are breathable, stylish, and easy to dress up or down depending on the party.
Pants That Feel Like a Breeze
Trade stiff trousers for lightweight stretch denim from 34 Heritage or performance pants from Peter Millar. Both give you the polished silhouette you want—with none of the heat. You’ll look pulled together, and feel like you’re wearing your favorite joggers.
The Finishing Touch: Shoes & Accessories
Nothing ruins a great outfit faster than the wrong shoes. Magnanni and Martin Dingman make footwear that’s sharp and summer-friendly—think suede loafers or leather drivers. Toss on a sleek belt, and if the party leans more laid-back, top it off with a Melin cap for that effortlessly cool finish.
A Note on Outerwear
Yes, it’s summer—but if you're headed to a waterfront or rooftop, things cool off quickly once the sun goes down. A lightweight layer from Herno, Holebrook, or Waterville will keep the chill away without weighing you down.
Your Summer Style Game Plan
The key to summer cocktail dressing is smart layering, breathable fabrics, and unexpected combinations. You can mix a bold Robert Graham shirt with neutral pants, pair performance wear with European tailoring, or throw a Travis Mathew polo under a casual jacket for an elevated twist on sporty style.
Stop by Giblees and let us help you pull together a look that feels fresh, confident, and cool—literally.