Top 20+ Formal Shoes That Are Stylish And Breathable For Summer

Walk Without The Sweat

Seasons dictate how we dress, and formal shoes should follow suit. When it comes to summer, heavy styles often feel uncomfortable and out of place. So, breathability becomes just as important as appearance. The best formal shoes for hot days? They balance airflow, structure, and sophistication. In this list, we've curated 20 options that look sharp and feel fresh for almost every occasion—be it meetings, weddings, or romantic evenings.

1. Leather Loafers With Perforated Uppers

Hot days call for shoes that let your feet relax. And leather loafers with airy perforations keep things cool, even when the sun is high. Their sleek profile dresses up effortlessly while moisture-wicking insoles and flexible soles ensure you're breezy and boardroom-ready.

2. Suede Oxfords Designed For Airflow

Soft suede and hidden cutouts give these Oxfords a soothing appeal. They are perfect for light-colored suits and pair smart styling with summer-worthy details. Breathable linings help reduce moisture and odor, so you can stride confidently in those formals.

3. Knit Derby Shoes With Cushioned Soles

With a stretchy knit upper and springy rubber sole, Knit Derbies are built for movement under a bright sky. Their lightweight design makes long days feel more relaxing for your feet. Styled right, they balance smart-casual vibes with undeniable summer comfort.

4. Woven Leather Monk Straps

Air flows easily through the open-weave leather, and those double monk straps add just the right amount of flair. They feel breezy yet put-together, whether you’re headed to a June wedding or a date night. A soft footbed seals the deal for long, stylish wear.

5. Tassel Loafers Made With Breathable Linings

These loafers know how to work hard in warm weather thanks to airy linings and lightweight soles. Tassel accents give them a touch of vintage charm, and summer tones like beige and grey make them extra versatile for sunny-day suits.

6. Brogue And Wingtip Dress Shoes With Ventilated Detailing

Classic never goes out of season—but it can get a seasonal upgrade. With built-in perforations and moisture-wicking insoles, brogues and wingtips offer breathability where you need it most. Their timeless detailing adds polish, and those grippy leather soles make it easier to walk on sun-soaked pavements.

7. Lightweight Cap-Toe Oxfords

Attending important day meetings? Have a pair of cap-toe Oxfords that keep you looking comfortable and confident. Thin leather makes them breathable without losing an ounce of elegance. Plus, padded insoles mean you can wear them through long ceremonies, too. Those sleek lines pair perfectly with linen.

8. Formal Slip-Ons And Minimalist Sneakers With Breathable Uppers

When ease meets style, you get some slip-on sneakers with breathable uppers. Knit fabrics and mesh panels allow steady airflow, while anti-odor footbeds keep things fresh. They’re ideal for casual Fridays or creative offices where comfort doesn’t mean compromise.

9. Linen-Blend And Hybrid Cotton-Laced Oxfords

Keep it cool in the office with linen and cotton-blend Oxfords. Designed to reduce heat, they add a fresh edge to your professional look. These Oxfords are paired with breathable linings and cooling inserts—stylish formals that help you walk with ease.

10. Penny Loafers Crafted From Soft Nubuck

Nubuck brings a breezy softness that sets these loafers apart. The velvety texture comes with much better airflow than traditional leather. Moreover, padded heels improve overall comfort, making them a go-to for sunny days. And that iconic penny slot? It’s a nod to vintage cool.

11. Perforated Wholecut Dress Shoes With Seamless Design

Crafted from a single piece of leather, whole cuts are all about clean lines and maximum airflow. Featuring a thin interior lining, they’re an excellent choice for formal events. Those perforations across the upper ensure breathability without breaking the sleek silhouette.

12. Cork-Soled Dress Loafers With Lightweight Uppers

These loafers look good and feel incredible! A cork midsole absorbs shock and encourages airflow, keeping your feet light for hours. Pair that with soft suede or leather uppers, and you’ve got an ideal summer shoe that blends class with all-day ease.

13. Italian Dress Shoes With Perforated Detailing

Sharply tailored Italian dress shoes seamlessly blend summer refinement with exceptional artistry. Thin, airy leather keeps sweat at bay, while precision perforations mean comfort for hours. The cool profile and polished finish of this shoe make it a natural fit for big summer occasions.

14. Double-Monk Cap-Toe Shoes With Hidden Vent Panels

These aren’t your average monks. Hidden mesh vents placed along the tongue and sides keep things quite airy. A cap-toe front and dual buckle straps elevate the whole look, making these shoes a smart pick for boardrooms or formal dinners during heat waves.

15. Open-Weave Leather Derbies

Walk easily under the sun with open-weave Derbies that balance formality with function—best if you’re attending day ceremonies or events that call for luxurious formals. The woven leather structure lets air circulate naturally, while padded footbeds make each step feel effortless.

16. Seersucker-Lined Formal Shoes

Think cool inside and out. Although this shoe may look sophisticated by design, inside, a seersucker lining wicks away heat and moisture. Lightweight soles further enhance flexibility, which makes them perfect for long meetings or sunny days that demand a polished look.

17. Handcrafted Loafers With Air-Circulating Footbeds

Handmade charm and smart summer design? Yes, please! Handcrafted loafers feature air-circulating footbeds that help reduce heat buildup as you move. Plus, soft leather uppers and discreet comfort tech make them a smart pick for anyone who values breathable footwear with a distinctive, well-crafted style.

18. Tapered-Toe Dress Shoes With Temperature Control

Designed for formal settings but built with innovation, these shoes include thermal-regulating insoles that adapt to changing body heat. Their tapered-toe profile keeps the look crisp, while the smart lining materials reduce overheating—ideal for boardrooms, weddings, and anything that demands both polish and comfort.

19. Stretch-Fit Lace-Ups With Breathable Shells

Flexible uppers and breathable shells make lace-ups a summer favorite. Each pair hugs your feet comfortably without trapping heat, and the low-profile design pairs easily with both suits and chinos. You can wear them to the office—and the afterparty!

20. Formal Espadrille Hybrids With Leather Uppers

Wear these shoes with linen outfits and step into summer sophistication. Equal parts breezy and bold, formal espadrilles fuse leather uppers with rope soles for a coastal-meets-classic vibe. They're lightweight and excellent for summer occasions that call for a relatively relaxed look.