Bermuda Shorts,Blazer,Knee Socks,Leather Shoes,Shirt,Tie

[rodes]

Michael's remarks from yesterday caused me to reflect on the classic business look in Bermuda as titled above. I have never worn this, but a few years ago I saw a Minister employ this mode of dress in 95 degree, tidewater Virginia and I could not help but admire the look. Now with equally hot and humid weather attacking the Mid-Atlantic US, I am considering it. My understanding is that it is acceptable business attire in lands that are former English colonies. I respectfully ask for the thoughts of my fellow London Loungers?

[Costi]

Isn't it... top heavy?
I wouldn't do this for any kind of business.
Bermudas are fine for leisure, I wear them a lot - no tie, socks and town shoes though.
Acceptable or not, it all boils down to what one looks like in bermudas...

[hectorm]

Now with equally hot and humid weather attacking the Mid-Atlantic US, I am considering it.

Since being comfortable in the heat is the main reason you state for entertaining the idea of wearing that outfit, I would have to say that bermudas instead of regular trousers will not make much of a difference in temperature. Not when matched with knee-length socks, necktie, shirt and jacket.
What would really make a big difference in temperature -given your need for business attire- is the color and materials that you choose.
Regarding the subject of acceptability: Bermuda shorts (with tie and jacket) are acceptable business attire in Bermuda. You would look odd -to say the least- in the mid-Atlantic US.

[Simon A]

Shorts and knee socks were standard office wear for low level civil servants in northern Australia and Papua New Guinea until the 1970's. Wearing such a rig in Malaysia, Singapore or Hong Kong would raise eyebrows as shorts were (and are) garb reserved for rickshaw pullers and plantation labourers; not pukka. I think you will find a linen suit just as cool to wear and more elegant.

[Mark Seitelman]

Bermuda outfit is fine for Bermuda, but it would look a bit odd elsewhere.

Bermuda has an Island culture with a slower beat than the great urban centers of New York, London, Paris, etc.

Generally, the men wear short sleeve shirts, and they do not wear their blazers outside. You will often see businessmen and government workers scooting around without a blazer.

However, the Bermuda outfit would look out of place in the USA as eccentric or costume.

Good luck.

[rodes]

Thankyou gentlemen for the good and timely advice. I have decided to take it. Of course, my wife saying that she would never sleep with me again likely had something to do with it as well.