What to Wear to the La Jolla Concours: A Men’s Style Guide
The La Jolla Concours d’Elegance brings automotive history, innovative design, and extraordinary craftsmanship to La Jolla Cove. From vintage race cars to magnificent motorcycles, this annual event is a crowd-pleaser for locals, collectors, and visitors alike.
The affair is filled with beautifully styled automobiles and spectacular examples of fine motoring, while the seaside grounds convey elegance at every turn. As a result, many men choose to dress up and make a statement while admiring a sleek Shelby or a collection of fantastic Ferraris. So, what should a distinctive gentleman wear to one of La Jolla’s premier events? Here are a few fashion tips for men attending the La Jolla Concours.
What Should Men Wear to the La Jolla Concours?
Men attending the La Jolla Concours should aim for polished resort or smart-casual attire. A lightweight blazer or shirt jacket, tailored trousers or chinos, a collared shirt, and comfortable leather shoes create an appropriate daytime look. Sunglasses, a tasteful hat, and light layers can also help guests prepare for the sunny but changeable conditions near La Jolla Cove.
How Formal Is the La Jolla Concours?
The Concours in La Jolla is not just an auto lover’s dream; it is also a social gathering for collectors and enthusiasts. It is a beloved occasion where guests can admire exceptional automobiles while mingling with serious car connoisseurs.
While there is no strict dress code, the event has a posh, luxurious energy that calls for refinement and sophistication. Depending on the weather, tailored trousers, polished shoes, and stylish men’s shirt jackets can create an elevated look without feeling overly formal. This event is the perfect time to don your best threads and make nearly as strong an impression as the automobiles on display.
To ensure you are not underprepared for this premier automotive gathering, here are a few style considerations for men who want to look their best at the La Jolla Concours.
What Should Men Wear to a Spring Concours?
The La Jolla Concours traditionally takes place during the spring, so think about seasonal ensembles featuring lightweight fabrics, tailored silhouettes, and subtle touches of color. A soft blue jacket paired with tapered tan trousers, for example, can create a polished look without appearing overly formal. An ascot, pocket square, or patterned shirt can add personality when worn with restraint.
While tuxedos certainly have their place, daytime Concours events generally call for elegant yet relaxed attire. Choose clothing that feels comfortable outdoors while still reflecting the sophisticated atmosphere of the occasion. Layers are also helpful because coastal temperatures can change throughout the day. Check the forecast before leaving and plan for direct sun, ocean breezes, and cooler temperatures later in the day. Breathable fabrics and a removable outer layer are usually more practical than a heavy suit.
Footwear should be polished but practical enough for walking and standing throughout the event. Leather loafers, dress sneakers, or comfortable lace-up shoes generally work better for a daytime car show than formal shoes that have not been broken in.
What Accessories Should Men Wear to the La Jolla Concours?
Because this is an outdoor event, do not forget to bring a stylish hat. It can protect you from the sun while also adding character to your outfit. Consider a classic Panama hat, a straw fedora, or another lightweight style that complements rather than overpowers the rest of your clothing. A polished pair of sunglasses can complete the look.
Belts, watches, pocket squares, and other understated accessories can also elevate a casual-yet-refined ensemble. The key is to choose pieces that work together rather than compete for attention. A light application of a fresh, clean fragrance may also suit the coastal setting, but keep it subtle out of consideration for the people around you.
What Should Men Avoid Wearing?
The La Jolla Concours d’Elegance may celebrate opulence, luxury, and glamorous automobiles, but your attire does not need to compete with the cars. Avoid athletic wear, graphic T-shirts, distressed denim, beach sandals, and clothing that feels noticeably more casual than the setting.
Use good judgment when putting together your final ensemble. A refined, tailored, and coordinated outfit will usually make a stronger impression than one overloaded with patterns, colors, or accessories. The right balance can also help you remain comfortable and confident throughout the event.
What to Know Before Attending the La Jolla Concours d’Elegance
Those fortunate enough to attend the La Jolla Concours d’Elegance can look forward to an impressive celebration of automotive history and design. Although individual attractions and activities may vary from year to year, the event consistently offers guests an opportunity to see remarkable automobiles in an elegant coastal setting.
Between the mild spring weather and the breathtaking scenery surrounding La Jolla Cove, the Concours offers an experience unlike a typical car show. With thoughtfully selected attire, you can enjoy the automobiles, atmosphere, and social occasion while looking appropriately polished for the event.
Frequently Asked Questions About La Jolla Concours Attire
Is There a Dress Code for the La Jolla Concours?
The La Jolla Concours does not generally call for traditional black-tie attire during its main daytime activities. Polished smart-casual or resort-style clothing is usually a suitable choice, although guests should review the details for any separately ticketed receptions or evening events.
Can Men Wear Jeans to the La Jolla Concours?
Clean, dark, well-fitted jeans may work with a blazer and polished shoes, but tailored trousers or chinos are usually better suited to the elegant atmosphere. Avoid distressed, excessively faded, or overly casual denim.
Should Men Wear a Suit to the La Jolla Concours?
A full suit is not usually necessary for the main outdoor car show. A lightweight blazer, sport coat, or shirt jacket can provide a refined appearance while remaining more comfortable in the coastal setting.
What Shoes Are Best for the La Jolla Concours?
Choose shoes that balance style with comfort, such as loafers, dress sneakers, or broken-in leather lace-ups. Guests should expect to spend time walking and standing, so uncomfortable formal footwear may become impractical.
Editor’ Note: This article was originally published in 2022, but has been freshly updated in 2026.
Named after Pearl Street in La Jolla, Pearl is the unofficial mascot of the various elves on the daily news desk at LaJolla.com. We’re writers, editors, and people who work on websites; sometimes so many people work on one project that no one feels like they should take the credit.
