BBQ season is one of our favorite times of year….warm weather, gatherings with friends and family, sunscreen, bug spray, and maybe even some poolside playtime. When the invites for BBQs come pouring in, chances are there will be one thing on your mind: “what shall I wear?"
When preparing for your BBQ, keep in mind that daytime BBQs often run into the evening. Be sure to bring something that you can throw around your shoulders when the sun goes down. A cardigan, pashmina, or wrap of some kind would be best. Your winter sweaters and jackets might be too warm, but you’ll just have to check the weather forecast first to be certain. Wardrobe Wire readers never leave the house unprepared.
If you live in a really hot and/or humid climate, you may want to avoid linen, especially white pants. You will sweat right through them and leave sweat marks on your booty. Although BBQs are casual, butt sweat is never acceptable. It can lead to minor embarrassment.
Ladies: if there is a pool that you may hop in at the BBQ…. wear your bathing suit under a tunic, cotton sundress, (there are a ton of options to pick from at H&M), or your brand new beach cover-up that you purchased for this exact purpose! Top the look off with sunglasses and a straw fedora. Don’t forget your sunscreen (make sure it has zinc oxide in it for extra protection)! For shoes, go for a flat, strappy sandal. Make sure your toes are painted! Wear light make-up so that it doesn't run all over your face from the heat or water. Perhaps just try a mineral powder and some lip gloss. Keep your make-up kit in your purse to touch up if need be. Check out this cool product that will keep your make-up clean and is perfect for any outdoor occasion. If the party runs in to the evening, maybe you will want to add some mascara.
Gents: shorts with no socks, boat shoes, and a polo shirt is a typical BBQ go-to look. If you like to dress to impress, try wearing your shorts with suspenders and some kicks from Le Coq Sportiff, TOMS, Ellesse, Converse, or Docksider boat shoes. Don’t be scared to top the look off with a summer time fedora, a la Panama Jack! Also, don’t forget to put on sunscreen before leaving the house. Lobster face is SO not in style.
Take a look through the gallery for some examples.
