What to wear to a barbecue: Women’s fashion
With barbecues, we tend to focus most of our attention on the food, the meats, the buns and the desserts, only to put little thought into our outfits. From today you will be the coolest party-goer with our best-kept secrets to dress for the occasion. We promise that you will get all the compliments and will be on theme from head to toe.
Let’s get right into it.
Sundress for the summer
For the hot summer days, you could opt for breezy sundresses, made from lightweight materials like cotton. Choose from any pattern and/or colour you like, making for a comfortable and effortlessly fashionable look.
Tiered skirts
On a hot day, you will need a flowy skirt or dress to keep you cool.
Tiered skirts are not only fashionable but are fully functional. Choose from mini, midi, and maxi lengths. This year, both patterned and block-coloured tiered skirts are in style, so have fun choosing from a variety of different styles.
Denim
Barbecues tend to be casual events, so denim shorts are perfect for the occasion, especially if your goal is to dress cute yet practical. Shorts are great for those heatwave days when a dress or trousers are just not cutting it.
But don’t just limit yourself to shorts - denim skirts, dresses and overalls are perfect for all seasons.
Feeling chilly and brave? Go double denim with a denim jacket. This stylish combination not only keeps you warm but also makes a fashion statement. Some fashionistas might disagree, but according to Levi’s, double denim is cool.
And for those chilly barbecues don’t be afraid to wear full-length jean trousers which can be styled with your best blouse.
White linen shorts
Linen shorts are great for the hot season, keeping you cool, casual and comfortable.
And if you are brave enough why not go for a white outfit?
It is well known that white outfits reflect heat and sunlight, helping to keep you cooler for extended periods. This makes white linen shorts essential for summer barbecues.
Pinafore/apron dresses for the hosts
Apron dresses not only remind your guests that you are the host, ready to set the rules if needed, but they also offer practical benefits. Pinafore and apron dresses typically feature pockets, allowing you to keep your hands free and stay effortlessly organised, remaining the ‘hostess with the mostest.’
These dresses ensure that any underclothes remain clean and stain-free, helping you maintain your best appearance.
For a casual look, you can style your pinafore dress with a t-shirt underneath. If the weather is cooler, adding a jumper provides warmth while keeping you chic and comfortable.
Swimming looks
If you are having a pool party combined with a barbecue then we recommend that you wear your favourite swimsuit, remembering to bring a change of clothes. If you are hosting you could even suggest that your guest arrive in a themed coloured outfit, maybe green to match the veggies or maybe blue to match the water.
Whether you have a specific colour theme for the day, or everyone shows up in their favourite swimsuits, a pool party barbecue is sure to make a splash. Swimming looks will add a fun and refreshing vibe.
Rock those Birks
Work your outfit around your sandals and if you’re a Birkenstock lover, use this as a sign to get your toes out. Comfort is key and is especially important for those unanticipated on-your-feet moments. Sandals are versatile, suiting every outfit and making your day run smoothly. Plus, they are easy to slip on and off. And if barbecue guests get a bit rowdy, they are great for keeping the peace and disciplining the troublemakers.
Note: please don’t discipline your guests. If your guests become a bit disorderly then kindly remind them that you are not accommodating the difficult kind, it’s only good vibes here. Or let them cook on BBQ charcoal to divert their attention, we find that cooking delicious BBQ meals is the solution to any spat.
Florals
Florals are for the optimists, for the girls who want it to be bright and warm, despite the weather being temperamental. With floral wear you will match the garden scene, brightening up moods and scenes.
We suggest that you go with breezy two pieces or a flowy floral dress. Or if you are looking to embrace the flower power then why not go with a Hawaiian shirt which makes for a good unisex option?
Final thoughts
Whether you are the host of the barbecue or a guest, there will be an outfit for you, whether it is something out of your comfort zone or a favourite outfit of yours. Our recommendations are optional, you can dress as you like. However, we hope that we have inspired you to dress for the weather and have fun.
