What shoes should men wear to summer weddings?

For formal weddings, men should consider wearing Oxford-style shoes for the summer season. As for casual celebrations, loafers, derby shoes, or moccasin-style pieces are all great picks.

Is it okay to wear black shoes to a summer wedding?

While black doesn't seem like a summer color, it's perfectly acceptable to wear black shoes to a summer wedding. This usually ends up being the most versatile and classic hue and can work with any style or dress code.

20 Best Men's Shoes for Summer Weddings 2023

Velvet men's loafers displayed on a pale background next to an untied bowtie, cufflinks, and a wedding band — Photo by Deborah Ann Photography

Getting ready to attend a few (or your own) summer weddings? Not only will you need a suit that'll keep you feeling comfortable despite high temperatures and sunny skies, but you also need shoes that you won't mind wearing even in the blistering summer heat. And while the footwear you decide to wear should depend on the color and style of your suit, as well as the dress code of the event, for summer nuptials, you should also consider the fabrics and silhouettes as well.

For a black-tie or black-tie optional wedding, you'll want to opt for classic oxford shoes in simple tones like black. On the other hand, if attending a more casual wedding, loafers are a great summer shoe choice, as slipping them on and off feels easy, and you can wear them with no socks to keep your feet as cool as possible. Have a beach or garden wedding in your future? Canvas shoes are a great option if the dress code leans very casual.

No matter if you're the groom, groomsman, or just a wedding guest, your shoes have the ability to make or break your outfit, so paying special attention to them is of the utmost importance. Ahead, we've rounded up a selection of men's shoes for summer weddings that will be sure to impress everyone and keep you cool while staying stylish.

Our Top Picks

J.Crew Camden Loafers at Jcrew.com (See Price)

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Marc Joseph New York Wall Street Driving Shoe at Nordstrom ($86)

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Cole Haan Nantucket 2.0 Penny Loafer at Colehaan.com (See Price)

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Madden Men Lantan Faux-Leather Derby Shoes at Macy's ($56)

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Aldo Blackpool at Aldoshoes.com (See Price)

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J.Crew Alden Cordovan Penny Loafers at Jcrew.com (See Price)

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Rothy's The Ravello Loafer at Rothys.com (See Price)

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Walk London Capri Penny Loafers at Asos (See Price)

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Florsheim Capitol Plain Toe Canvas Oxfords at Menswearhouse.com (See Price)

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Gucci Jordaan Horsebit Loafer at Nordstrom ($920)

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Courtesy of J.Crew.

View On Jcrew.com

Size: 7-13 | Color options: Whiskey, natural, black | Material: Leather

This classic penny loafer design is based on the 1930s version and is a cool and stylish option without trying too hard. The unlined interior softens with each wear, and reviews say they're really breathable as well (perfect for summer celebrations).

Courtesy of Nordstrom.

View On Nordstrom $86

Size: 7-13 | Color options: Black, tan, navy | Material: Leather

Navy blue is always a nice hue for a summer wedding, but if you'd prefer to stick with something even more neutral, this Marc Joseph loafer set also comes in tan or black leather. With a simple design and gel heel insert, these shoes are a comfortable choice.

Courtesy of Cole Haan.

View On Colehaan.com

Size: 7-16 | Color options: British tan, navy textile tan, black | Material: Leather

These Cole Haan shoes almost look like a mix between a nice sneaker and a classic loafer, which makes them feel modern and unique. They're great for a laid-back wedding if you're looking to dress down without feeling too casual.

Courtesy of Macy's.

View On Macy's $56

Size: 7-11.5 | Color options: Tan nubuck | Material: Faux-leather

A more affordable option with great ratings, these faux-leather derby shoes are a versatile choice for all men. We absolutely love the contemporary look of this piece, which will easily get a lot of daily wear.

Courtesy of Aldo.

View On Aldoshoes.com

Size: 7-11.5 | Color options: Black | Material: Leather

The patent leather on these monkstrap loafers gives them a sleek shine that is hard to miss. Another lovely detail? The small studded heel that provides just enough edge. This is a stylish option for the person who wants something a little more unique.

Courtesy of J.Crew.

View On Jcrew.com

Size: 8-13 | Color options: Dark burgundy | Material: Leather

These elegant penny loafers have a stylish and classic aesthetic to them that definitely makes for a more versatile look. While dark burgundy isn't a color that is usually associated with summer, this shade still works well and feels different enough for a warm-weather affair.

Courtesy of Rothy's.

View On Rothys.com

Size: 7-16 | Color options: Sand, navy, faded brown, deep olive, faded pink | Material: Recycled materials

Perfect for a casual daytime or a beach wedding, this pick from Rothy's is a versatile option. They're available in several colors, like pink for something unique or a tan for a classic look. What's more, they're also machine washable and sustainable, made of Rothy's signature recycled materials (about 16 plastic water bottles went into these).

Courtesy of ASOS.

View On Asos

Size: 7-13 | Color options: Brown | Material: Faux-leather

Simple and straightforward, these brown penny loafers are something that can be worn long after a wedding. And at under $100, they come in at an affordable price point that makes them worth it.

Florsheim Capitol Plain Toe Canvas Oxford Shoes

Courtesy of Men's Warehouse.

View On Menswearhouse.com

Size: 7-14 | Color options: Black, gray, sand | Material: Canvas

Light tan canvas shoes like these were made to be worn at nice summer events. The canvas material keeps them light and casual, while the contrasting leather accents allow them to be stylish and cool. If these are too light for you, they're also available in black or gray.

View On Nordstrom $920 View On Saks Fifth Avenue $920 View On Gucci.com $920

Size: 6.5-15 | Color options: Cocoa, brown | Material: Leather

Sophisticated and chic, these Gucci loafers are made to impress. They feature an apron-toe style with a sleek gold horsebit, allowing anyone to look polished while wearing them.

Courtesy of Cole Haan.

View On Colehaan.com

Size: 7-13 | Color options: Navy, truffle java, tan java, black, ironstone pavement | Material: Leather

If your feet tend to get extra sweaty on hot summer days, then these lowkey loafers are an especially great pick. The gradient laser patterns on the top are basically tiny holes that make these extra breathable, allowing air to really get through to your feet. They also feature a traction pattern that ensures there will be no slipping on the dance floor.

Calvin Klein Elijah Lace Up Dress Sneakers

Courtesy of Macy's.

View On Macy's $77 View On Dsw.com View On Shoecarnival.com

Size: 7-11.5 | Color options: Black, cognac | Material: Faux-leather

Keep things casual but still sophisticated with these dress-up sneakers from Calvin Klein. While a faux-leather upper makes them look a bit more special than your typical everyday sneaker, they're still just as comfortable and great for an outdoor daytime wedding.

Courtesy of Aldo.

View On Aldoshoes.com

Size: 7-13 | Color options: Black | Material: Faux-leather

Can't stand the thought of having your feet completely confined in the heat? Try a mule loafer style like these from Aldo: your heel will be out, you don't have to wear socks, and you can easily slip them on and off. Dual-density foam and padded insoles keep them extra comfortable as well.

Joseph Abboud Soiree Patent Leather Dress Shoes

Josbank

View On Josbank.com $125 View On Menswearhouse.com $125

Size: 7-15 | Color options: Black | Material: Patent leather

Patent leather makes these oxford shoes feel even more fancy and dressed up. This is a classic style that looks sleek and elegant, and they're something you'll be able to wear to many more events in the future.

Courtesy of Bloomingdale's.

View On Nordstrom $350 View On Bloomingdales $350 View On Toboot.com

Size: 7-13 | Color options: Tan | Material: Leather

These classic driving loafers have a clean look to them that makes them so versatile. The tan color would work at any time of the year, and the reviews are loaded with comments about how comfortable these are to wear.

Truffle Collection Woven Penny Saddle Loafers

Courtesy of ASOS.

View On Asos

Size: 8-15 | Color options: Brown, black | Material: Faux-leather

The woven design on these penny saddle loafers makes them super breathable, which is great for hot weather. However, it's important to note that you can't really wear them with socks (if that's a dealbreaker for you).

Courtesy of J.Crew.

View On Jcrew.com

Size: 7-13 | Color options: Dark brown, black | Material: Leather

If you're not into the idea of wearing loafers, then a classic derby shoe is a great alternative. These J.Crew shoes are sleek and versatile, and are available in dark brown or black.

DSW

View On Amberjack.shop $189 View On Dsw.com

Size: 7-13 | Color options: Honey, chestnut, obsidian, onyx, and 7 more | Material: Suede

While suede isn't normally recommended as a summer material, these are made of a water-repellant Italian suede that makes them feel more appropriate. They come in a wide variety of colors and feature a memory foam arch for added comfort.

Courtesy of Bloomingdale's.

View On Bloomingdales

Size: 7-13 | Color options: Black | Material: Leather

The unique Double Gancini bit on these shoes is what really makes them stand out from other loafers. They also have a thick lug sole allowing them to feel sturdy and durable. Another detail? The Western inspiration behind them shows without being too obvious.

Courtesy of Men's Wearhouse.

View On Menswearhouse.com

Size: 7-15 | Color options: Black | Material: Leather

Instead of classic penny loafers, opt for casual and comfortable moc-toe loafers like these. They couldn't be easier to get on and off, and you can get a lot of wear out of them. Plus, they're pretty affordable for genuine leather.

What to Look for in Men's Shoes for Summer Weddings

While you can certainly wear pretty much any special occasion shoe for a summer wedding, you can typically get away with something a little lighter and more casual during the warmer months. Therefore, look for lighter colors and fabrics, and opt for shoes that are really breathable. Loafers are a versatile pick that can be worn without socks to keep your feet cool, and for more casual outdoor weddings, you may even be able to get away with dress sneakers or mule-style loafers.

FAQ

What shoes should men wear to summer weddings?

For formal weddings, men should consider wearing Oxford-style shoes for the summer season. As for casual celebrations, loafers, derby shoes, or moccasin-style pieces are all great picks.
Is it okay to wear black shoes to a summer wedding?

While black doesn't seem like a summer color, it's perfectly acceptable to wear black shoes to a summer wedding. This usually ends up being the most versatile and classic hue and can work with any style or dress code.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writer Jessica Booth is a freelance writer and formerly served as an editor for seven years. Her work has been featured in Bustle, Romper, Insider, Forbes, Redbook, and Refinery29.