Suit yourself for summer and hurry

Summer is here and the invites are in: weddings, graduations, cocktail parties with your name on them. These functions require elevated attire and some attention to detail. You may need a suit other than your workday model. Get them now because they will be gone very soon, as retailers continue to push more quickly into each successive season.
While tropical weight wool is fine for the office, you need a lighter suit for that June wedding. A classic option is a tailored-fit, khaki two-button with narrow lapels and a flat front pant in crisp cotton. The color alone will lighten you up, and the relative weightlessness of it will allow you to keep the jacket on while all the other sweaty guys have removed theirs and rolled up their shirtsleeves.
The fit of the suit is crucial to the appearance. A boxy jacket will add bulk, and no one actually wants to look wider! Keep the focus vertical with a slimmer cut. A tailor can perfectly fit the rest of the suit as long as you buy the correct size. You may have to try on several models before you see the right one, so don't give up after only two or three tries.
Cotton khaki suits are available in a range of colors from ivory to navy and even black, but your best bet is to choose a traditional khaki tone. Its neutrality will maximize color options when selecting shirt and tie combinations.  You can opt for a soft, monochromatic mix of solid shirt and tie in any complimentary color scheme: yellow, sky blue, or pink (I know, but it is a flattering shade and women love men who wear it).
That's one idea, but how about amping up the style factor with a gingham shirt with a bold striped tie? The small checks of the plaid will balance out the wide striped tie. Make sure the shirt and tie have a similar color story, such as blue and white. You can also try a striped shirt and tie combination, but use a subtly striped shirt with a boldly striped tie, and follow the same color rule.
Get more mileage out of your suit by pairing it with colorful polos and casual shirts. The jacket will work with jeans and tee shirts for occasions that are casual and upscale.