What to Wear as a Best Man to a Lakeside Wedding in 2027
Direct Answer
For a lakeside wedding in 2027, the best man should wear a lightweight, unlined linen or cotton-blend suit in a warm neutral like sand, stone, or slate blue, paired with a relaxed-fit button-down shirt and leather loafers or clean white sneakers. The setting demands breathable fabrics and a slightly undone elegance—think rolled sleeves and no tie for a cocktail-hour vibe, or a knit polo under the jacket for a modern twist. Avoid dark wool suits or stiff formalwear; the goal is polished ease that complements the natural waterfront backdrop.
What to Wear
The core palette for a lakeside wedding in 2027 revolves around earthy neutrals—sand, taupe, sage green, and soft blues—that harmonize with water and woods. Key pieces include an unstructured linen or cotton suit (try J.Crew for their classic Ludlow in linen or Bonobos for stretch-cotton chinos), a linen or oxford button-down in white or pale blue, and leather loafers or minimalist sneakers (like Cole Haan GrandPro or Allbirds Tree Dashers). Accessories should be minimal: a woven leather belt, a textured watch strap (leather or canvas), and perhaps a pocket square in a subtle print. For women, a midi dress in a flowing fabric (think Aritzia Wilfred or M.M.LaFleur) or a two-piece set (like Mango separates) in a muted floral or solid sage works beautifully, paired with block-heel sandals or flat espadrilles. The overarching rule is lightweight, breathable, and intentionally relaxed—never stiff or overdressed.
For Men
Masculine-presenting women — these looks work for you too.
Three age-appropriate outfit boards for the best man, each tailored to the lakeside setting.
For Women
Feminine-presenting men — these looks work for you too.
Three age-appropriate outfit boards for the best man (or best person) who identifies as female, each tailored to the lakeside setting.
How to Adapt by Age
For a lakeside wedding in 2027, the 20s look leans into trend-driven ease—unlined linen, open collars, and sneakers or loafers signal youthful confidence without formality. The 40s outfit adds structure with a sport coat and tailored trousers, while still keeping fabrics lightweight and colors muted; a suede chukka or mule bridges casual and refined. The 60s best man embraces classic tailoring—a full linen suit, pleated trousers, and polished derbies or pumps—with subtle luxe touches like French cuffs or pearl earrings, proving that age brings a commitment to quality and fit over fleeting trends.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wearing a dark wool suit – It’s too heavy and formal for a lakeside setting; you’ll overheat and look out of place.
- Choosing stiff, shiny shoes – Patent leather or high-gloss oxfords clash with the natural, relaxed vibe; opt for matte suede or unpolished leather.
- Over-accessorizing – Skip the pocket square, tie bar, and lapel pin all at once; one or two pieces (watch, belt, or simple necklace) is plenty.
- Ignoring the weather – Lakeside can mean wind or humidity; avoid silk dresses or heavy fabrics that don’t breathe, and bring a light jacket or wrap.
- Wearing white without permission – Unless the couple explicitly says it’s fine, avoid white dresses or shirts that could upstage the wedding party.
FAQ
Can I wear sneakers as a best man to a lakeside wedding? Yes, clean white leather sneakers (like Cole Haan GrandPro or Allbirds Tree Dashers) work well for a 20s or 40s look, especially if the wedding is casual or cocktail-attire. Avoid athletic or running sneakers—stick to minimalist, low-profile styles.
What color suit is best for a lakeside wedding? Light neutrals like sand, stone, slate blue, or warm beige are ideal. They complement the water and natural surroundings without competing with the scenery. Avoid black, charcoal, or navy—they’re too dark and formal for daytime or early evening by the lake.
Is a tie required for the best man at a lakeside wedding? Not necessarily. For a 2027 lakeside wedding, many couples prefer a relaxed, tie-less look with an open-collar shirt or a knit polo under the jacket. Check the dress code—if it’s “cocktail” or “garden party,” you can skip the tie; if “formal,” a linen or knit tie in a muted color is appropriate.
What should a female best man wear to a lakeside wedding? A flowing midi dress in a solid color (sage, navy, or ivory) or a two-piece set (blazer and wide-leg trousers) works beautifully. Avoid anything too short or tight—opt for breathable fabrics like linen or silk crepe, and choose block heels or flat sandals for the grassy or sandy terrain.
How do I match the wedding colors without looking like a guest? Ask the couple for their palette and choose complementary neutrals (e.g., if they’re using sage and blush, wear sand or stone). Avoid wearing the exact same shade as the bridal party—your role is to support, not blend in. A pocket square or tie in a subtle accent color is a safe nod.
Can I wear a vest instead of a jacket? A vest alone can work for a very casual lakeside wedding, but it’s risky—it may look incomplete or too informal. If you go this route, choose a linen or cotton vest in a neutral tone and pair it with rolled-up sleeves and chinos. For most best men, a lightweight jacket is safer and more polished.
Bottom Line
The best man’s outfit for a 2027 lakeside wedding should prioritize comfort, breathability, and a relaxed sense of style that honors the setting without sacrificing polish. Choose lightweight linen or cotton suits in warm neutrals, minimal accessories, and footwear that works on grass or sand. Whether you’re 25 or 65, the key is fit and fabric—not formality—so you can stand by your friend with confidence and ease.
*Published June 2027 · Updated June 2027*