How to Dress Business Casual for Summer: Complete Outfit Guide for Men

When the temperature rises, finding the right balance between professional and comfortable can be a challenge. Dressing for summer business requires a bit of planning to make sure you stay cool while maintaining an appropriate office appearance. This guide breaks down exactly how to build the perfect business casual summer outfit for men.

Start With Lightweight Materials

Text: Isak Gregorson / Published 2025-06-12 / Guides

One of the biggest factors in staying cool while still looking sharp is the material you choose. In summer business casual, fabrics like linen, cotton, seersucker, and light wool blends work especially well. These materials allow air to circulate, absorb moisture, and dry quickly, which helps you avoid that sticky, uncomfortable feeling during the day.

Linen shirts, for example, are a summer staple because of their breathability. Cotton poplin or chambray shirts also work well if you prefer a slightly more structured look. For trousers, lightweight wool or linen blends give you a tailored fit without trapping heat. Try to avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester, as they often don't breathe well and can lead to discomfort during long workdays.

For a wider selection of breathable options, you can explore our trousers collection.

Focus on Proper Fit

Fit becomes even more important when dressing for business casual summer. While in cooler months you might get away with heavier layers and tighter fits, summer calls for slightly more relaxed silhouettes that still look put-together. Garments that sit too close to your body will restrict airflow, making you feel warmer throughout the day.

Look for unstructured blazers that skip heavy linings and padding. These versions still give you a professional edge but allow for better air circulation. For shirts, a looser fit around the chest and shoulders allows you to move freely without looking sloppy. When it comes to pants, aim for a tapered leg that offers room in the thigh without appearing baggy.

To find options that balance fit and breathability, browse our shirts for men.

Choose Appropriate Colors

Color choices make a noticeable difference when building your summer business attire. Dark colors absorb heat, while lighter shades reflect sunlight and keep you cooler. Colors like light grey, sand, beige, olive, sky blue, and pale pink not only fit the summer vibe but also maintain a polished look that works in professional settings.

You might also consider subtle patterns such as micro-stripes or small checks, which add some visual interest without crossing into casual territory. Avoid overly loud prints or overly bright neon shades if your workplace maintains a conservative dress code.

Looking for summer-ready jackets? Explore our overshirts for men.

Get your Summer Business look

Select the Right Footwear

Footwear often gets overlooked, but it plays a huge role in comfort during mens summer business casual days. Leather loafers, suede derbies, and even certain minimalist leather sneakers can all work depending on your office culture. The key is to choose breathable shoes with light, flexible soles that won’t trap heat.

Avoid heavy boots, thick leather dress shoes, or anything too rigid. Your feet need room to breathe just as much as the rest of your body. No-show socks can also help keep your feet cool while maintaining a polished, sockless appearance.

For breathable and season-appropriate options, take a look at our sneakers selection.

Footwear should be practical, clean, and timeless. That also applies to your pants. Slim, slightly cropped cuts help show off your shoes – without trying too hard.