How to Master Summer Businesswear

Dressing professionally during the summer months can be a challenge. When the temperature rises, maintaining a polished appearance while staying cool and comfortable takes more than just switching to short sleeves. At Louis Copeland, we believe summer businesswear should strike the perfect balance between sharp tailoring, breathable fabrics, and seasonal versatility.

Whether you're navigating city commutes, attending back-to-back meetings, or travelling for work, your summer wardrobe should work just as hard as you do — without weighing you down. Here’s how to refine your workwear wardrobe and stay sharp all summer long.

1. Choose Lightweight, Breathable Fabrics

When it comes to summer dressing, fabric choice is everything. Materials like linen, cotton, and lightweight wool blends are naturally breathable and ideal for warmer days. They help regulate temperature, wick away moisture, and offer all-day comfort — even when the heat is on. Unstructured jackets and partially lined suits allow for airflow while maintaining a smart silhouette.

For trousers, opt for breathable cotton chinos or lightweight wool trousers with built-in stretch for ease of movement and comfort during long work hours.

Explore smart, summer-ready essentials in our Workwear Collection, crafted to help you look sharp while staying cool.

2. Prioritise Light Colours and Seasonal Shades

Summer is the ideal time to lighten up — and that applies to your colour palette as well. Lighter shades like beige, pale grey, stone, soft blue, and off-white are not only seasonally appropriate, but they also reflect sunlight and help keep you cooler throughout the day.

A light-coloured blazer paired with a crisp shirt and tailored trousers exudes effortless summer sophistication. These subtle tonal combinations look clean and modern while remaining perfectly suited for the professional environment.

Explore colour-forward pieces in our full Suits & Jackets Collection to refresh your summer rotation.

3. Dress Smart Without Overheating

A full three-piece suit might be perfect in winter, but in summer, it can be unnecessarily heavy. Smart casual separates offer a breathable and business-appropriate alternative. Pair an unstructured blazer with cotton chinos or lightweight trousers for a refined look that’s both polished and functional.

Open-collar shirts and short-sleeved options are also acceptable in many modern workplaces, especially when made from lightweight cotton or linen. Keep patterns subtle and fits clean to retain a professional edge without sacrificing comfort.

Shop our range of Shirts for summer-ready options that pair perfectly with tailored trousers or under a blazer.

4. Step Up Your Footwear Game

Footwear is a crucial part of your summer business outfit. During warmer months, your shoes should still communicate professionalism while offering comfort and breathability. Think suede loafers, perforated leather brogues, or minimal trainers that offer airflow and ease without looking too casual.

Stick to colours like tan, navy, or off-white to keep your footwear seasonal and versatile. And as always, ensure your shoes are well-maintained — scuffed shoes can quickly undermine an otherwise well-considered look.

Explore work-ready styles in our Footwear Collection for options that combine smart looks with summer comfort.

5. Layer with Intelligence

Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean you won’t need an extra layer. Office air-conditioning and unpredictable Irish weather can mean you’re alternating between warm and cool environments throughout the day. A lightweight cardigan, fine-gauge knit, or breathable overshirt adds flexibility without bulk.

Choose neutral layers that coordinate with your weekday wardrobe and can be easily removed or added as needed. Look for natural fibres that help regulate body temperature and maintain breathability.

Browse our Knitwear Collection for refined layering pieces that bridge the gap between style and function.

6. Accessories That Work in Summer

Accessories should remain functional and light in summer. A woven belt, linen tie, or silk-cotton blend pocket square adds subtle flair without weighing down your outfit. Canvas or leather work bags in neutral tones offer professional style and durability while still feeling seasonally appropriate.

Don’t forget practical touches like a pair of sunglasses for commuting, a breathable face covering if needed, and lightweight socks or invisible liners for shoes.

Choose accessories that serve a purpose but also complement your overall look with subtle style.

7. Pack Smart for Business Travel

If your summer involves business travel, it pays to plan ahead. Select wrinkle-resistant shirts and trousers that pack easily and hold their shape. A travel-friendly blazer made from stretch fabric can take you from plane to presentation without missing a beat.

Use a garment bag or packing cubes to keep outfits organised and presentation-ready. Prioritise versatile pieces that can be worn more than once — such as neutral trousers and shirts that mix and match easily.

Our Workwear Collection includes versatile, travel-ready pieces designed for men on the move.

Final Word: Stay Cool, Look Sharp

Mastering summer businesswear isn’t just about surviving the heat — it’s about embracing style that works with the season, not against it. By choosing breathable fabrics, softer colours, and smart layering techniques, you can create work-ready outfits that look sharp and feel great.

At Louis Copeland, our summer workwear edit combines comfort, versatility, and timeless design so you can dress with confidence no matter what the Irish weather — or your calendar — has in store.

Browse the full Workwear Collection to refresh your summer wardrobe today.

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Key Highlights:

• Opt for breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and lightweight wool blends.

• Stick to lighter colours — beige, grey, stone, and pale blue are ideal.

• Use separates instead of full suits to stay cool but sharp.

• Short-sleeved or open-collar shirts offer comfort and a relaxed edge.

• Choose breathable footwear — suede loafers or perforated brogues work well.

• Layer lightly with unstructured blazers, cardigans or overshirts.

• Keep accessories simple, seasonal, and functional.

• Pack wrinkle-resistant, mix-and-match pieces for summer business travel.