Stephen Libby urges men to ditch dark suits for summer weddings
The Traitors star argues that traditional dark suits are unsuitable for celebrations, advocating for lighter colours, natural fabrics, and playful accessories.
Stephen Libby, a star of the reality television series The Traitors, has published a fashion column in The Guardian offering styling advice for men attending summer weddings. Libby argues that while women’s wedding guest attire has evolved into a significant market, men’s options remain largely limited to traditional dark suits. He describes the prevalence of grey, navy, and black suits as akin to wearing funeral attire to a celebration, urging men to embrace experimentation and colour instead.
For summer events, Libby recommends moving away from rigid tailoring in favour of relaxed cuts and lighter colour palettes. He suggests pale blue or green suits, or even mismatched combinations such as a pale green jacket with cream trousers, or brown and blue pairings. To stay comfortable in warmer weather, he advises choosing natural fibres like cotton or cotton-linen mixes, noting that while pure linen is aesthetically pleasing, it is highly susceptible to creasing during long days.
Libby emphasises the importance of accessories to elevate an outfit without requiring a full wardrobe overhaul. He encourages men to normalise carrying small bags to avoid bulging pockets during photographs, suggesting a simple leather purse is sufficient. Other recommended details include vintage watches, bold socks, and shoes with a slight Cuban heel to improve posture. He also advises against wearing shorts or hats, the latter only being acceptable for medical reasons.
The column, published in August, aligns with the peak of the Northern Hemisphere wedding season. Libby notes that men can dress existing suits in various ways by focusing on complementary colours and accessories. He specifically cites brands such as Oxfam, King & Tuckfield, Rokit, Vinted, and Phix in a styling credit list, highlighting that secondhand options can be a viable alternative to purchasing new garments.
Ultimately, Libby’s advice centres on the idea that a wedding is a celebration of love, not a somber occasion. He suggests that men should feel free to introduce colour through shirts and accessories, ensuring they look smart and comfortable. The column serves as a guide for men seeking to update their formal wear for the season, prioritising personal style and comfort over strict traditional norms.
