Knights in White Linen

Think of a linen suit and the chances are you will think of white linen suit.  It’s a classic; hey, it’s nearly a caricature of the successful man in sunnier climes.  But for the ultimate in summer style it’s hard to beat a man’s white linen suit.

The Look

White suits can be very, very stylish.  We’re thinking of Our Man in Havanna, an adventurer in South America, a playboy on the Mediteranean.  An expensive white suit speaks of style and substance.  On the other hand, a cheap white linen suit will be perfectly functional and still maintain the look.  Either way, white and linen make a great summer suit combination.

Formal or Casual, It’s All White For You

With beach weddings becoming more popular, men’s white linen suits are the perfect choice for groom, best man and guests.  Not only would traditional formal wear be too heavy and warm, it would look rather odd in a beach setting.  For boys, the white linen suit is ideal for special events such as First Communions and Confirmations.  When it comes to business wear, a white linen suit is not the most practical option.  But in other business settings, for example meeting clients for lunch or drinks, it can set the perfect note, a balance of relaxed style with wealth.  Whatever the occasion, for a more formal look the heavier Irish linens are more suitable.  They wrinkle less, hold their shape better and generally, look more expensive.

For casual wear, white suits are also ideal.  Particularly at the beach as it looks and feels cool  There’s a reason white is a popular colour in hot countries and that is because it reflects away light and helps keep you fresh.  White linen is a great base for casual outfits as white can be mixed and matched with just about anything, even a loud Hawaiian shirt.

Caring for a White Linen Suit

There is a downside to white linen and that is that marks very easily and really shows up the dirt.  Maybe that’s why we associate it with the wealthy?  No one else could afford the cleaning bills.  Fortunately, with modern cleaning techniques it is possible to keep your white linens white. However, prevention is better than cure.  Try not to stain them in the first place. A gentleman should always be in control, and that applies to eating and drinking too.  There is nothing cool about dribbling your ice-cream or spilling your drink.   Still, accidents do happen and, in emergencies, small stains can be washed out with a touch of seltzer (carbonated or fizzy) water.

White Linen For You

When setting up your summer wardrobe always include at least one white linen suit and ideally two.  It is worth investing in one good classic white linen suit for special occasions.  Like a tuxedo it is something that you will have and use for years to come.  Then add a nice casual version for summer wear.  Those two suits alone will ensure that whether it’s hot nights or cool days, you can look like every woman’s knight in a white linen suit.