Friday, March 26, 2010

What Does "Island Chic" Mean for Men Anyway?

In advance of June, the most frequent question posed to Katie and me is, "What should guys wear to your wedding."  And we thought "island chic" was a completely intuitive concept for everyone... er, maybe not.  Apparently women have a much better grasp on the definitions of such things.  I'm going to work on finding photos to serve as examples for the gents; however, to start let's discuss what "Island Chic" is not.

Island Chic is not, the following:

  1. Black-tie
  2. Mandatory suits and ties (although, both are certainly welcome)
  3. Leather-soled and polished shoes (we'll actually be married on the sand, so probably not a great idea anyway)
  4. Anything uncomfortable or stuffy
Things to consider when choosing attire for the wedding:

  1. It's going to be hot, probably 85 degrees, so try to wear light-colored and breathable fabrics (linen, cotton or tropical weight wool).
  2. Choose footwear that you'll be comfortable exposing to sand.  As mentioned above, we're getting married on the beach, so all of you will be walking across the sand too.
  3. Good times will ensue.  Don't wear anything you're overly concerned about sweating in.  Katie and I plan to tear it up, and we hope you do to.
Basic photos for ideas:
From our friends at Ermenegildo Zegna.  This chap is wearing various linen and cotton blends.  Understandably, guys may be uncomfortable working the white pants and white shirt look, but this guy's going to be pretty happy if it's mid-80's and humid.  I would ditch the chukka boots in favor of some loafers or sandals.

Also, no need to tote a suede duffle bag to the wedding.  Apparently one can't live without those in Italy.











Another take from the gentlemen of Brooks Brothers.  This guy might be slightly more comfortable at a wedding down the street at The Ritz, but if he ditches the tie and grabs a drink, he'll be perfectly at home at our wedding.

This jacket is a blend of linen and cotton.  The trousers are linen.















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