20 Best Men's Shoes for Summer Weddings 2023

Jul 18, 2023

Options for grooms, groomsmen, and wedding guests.

Jessica Booth is a journalist with over 10 years of experience and a freelance writer whose work has appeared on sites such as Bustle, Insider, and Refinery29.

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.

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).

Price at time of publish: $248

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.

Price at time of publish: $124

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.

Price at time of publish: $109.95

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.

Price at time of publish: $79.99

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.

Price at time of publish: $145

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.

Price at time of publish: $897

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).

Price at time of publish: $189

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.

Price at time of publish: $88

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.

Price at time of publish: $99.99

Nordstrom

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.

Price at time of publish: $920

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.

Price at time of publish: $168

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.

Price at time of publish: $110

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.

Price at time of publish: $130

Josbank

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.

Price at time of publish: $124.99

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.

Price at time of publish: $350

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).

Price at time of publish: $42

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.

Price at time of publish: $159.50

Amberjack

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.

Price at time of publish: $179

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.

Price at time of publish: $850

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.

Price at time of publication: $109.99

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.

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.

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.

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.