How to Wear a Tie in Warm Weather

Neckties have always been the go-to accessory for looking a little more buttoned-up — think Michael Douglas as Gordon Gekko or Leonardo DiCaprio as Jordan Belfort, minus the fraudulent finance and questionable morals. Even today, the tie still carries a whiff of celebration and formality — weddings, graduations, or that fancy dinner you’re not paying for because the company card is.

But while this timeless strip of fabric shows up for your job promotion or a night at the orchestra, it’s also a low-effort way to add texture and visual intrigue to your outfits. Ironically, you don’t want to be too buttoned-up — that’s kind of the whole point. Leave the top button undone, throw on a casual tie, and try a four-in-hand or a slightly imperfect knot to match the easygoing vibe of summer. Think relaxed, not reckless.

With warmer weather here to stay for a while, it’s time to retire your wool ties and break out the breezy linens and silks. Summer’s all about loosening up, staying cool, and maybe sweating a little less. We’ve got four outfit ideas to help you work a tie into your summer wardrobe — without looking like you just walked out of a board meeting from 1997.

Outfit #1: Let the Tie Do the Talking

Sometimes, the easiest way to put an outfit together is to keep it simple and let the tie do all the talking. A crisp white oxford (pressed and ready to go, not balled up in your laundry chair) should always be in your closet’s starting lineup — along with a classic straight-fit chino.

Our Bali Double Stripe Marigold Tie pops perfectly against the khaki-and-cream tones of the shoes. The whole fit is wildly versatile — you can even toss on a navy blazer or a denim jacket for those suspiciously chilly summer nights when the weather forgot it's July. 

Outfit #2: From Boardroom to Ballpark

This is the perfect kit for when you’ve left your blazer at the office, thrown on your favorite baseball cap, and dashed downtown for a game. The tie that was tight from 9 to 5? Loosen it up — it’s now working overtime from 5 to 9.

A light blue oxford shirt is always a winner (unlike your team’s bullpen), and it pairs handsomely with our Flower Network Cranberry Tie. Toss our Wabash Linen Flax Crewneck Sweater over your shoulders — or around your waist if you’re feeling extra '90s — just in case the game goes into extra innings and the breeze starts heckling.

Outfit #3: When in Doubt, Chore It Out

A blazer with a shirt and tie? Predictable. But when they zig, we zag. Enter the chore coat — a masterclass in versatility thanks to its utility pockets, easygoing silhouette, and the magical ability to dress up or down without breaking a sweat.

Try pairing our Pinpoint Stripe Classic Blue Non-Iron Dress Shirt with an Alleavitch Herringbone Steel Blue Tie to introduce a bit of pattern and texture up top. Since the upper half is already doing the talking, keep things chill down below. Ecru-shaded pants and tobacco loafers not only work year-round, they also anchor any outfit that’s flirting with a pop of color. Stylish, grounded, and just rebellious enough to skip the blazer.  

Outfit #4: Stripes, Florals, and a Cherry on Top

When we think of summer, one of the first things that comes to mind is ice cream. And honestly, who can pick just one flavor? That’s why Neapolitan — vanilla, chocolate, strawberry — is a timeless classic. It checks all the boxes, just like this outfit.

Our Textured Micro Stripe Pink Non-Iron Dress Shirt teamed with the Free Fall Floral Chocolate Brown Tie is serving serious Neapolitan energy. Pink? Check. Chocolate? Check. Stylish enough to make you melt? Double check. Finish it off with high-waisted pleated trousers and a pair of derbies, and you’ve got a look that’s smooth, sweet, and ready for summer — no freezer burn required. 

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