BBQ Chic
Dressing With Style for a Barbecue
By Image Development & Management, Inc.
How does one put herself together with style when going to a casual outdoor event like the barbecue?
The typical American BBQ is usually a busy, active, and messy outdoor event.
When getting ready, you should keep a few things in mind:
Dress Comfortably for ease and movement: You want to be relaxed and have freedom to move around. A look with too many extras and constricting pieces may get in your way. (We love knits and stretch for these types of casual events.)
Ralph Lauren
For the creative personality, think leggings with a flowing tunic dress; or for a sportier look, try leggings with a light sweater set. A more traditional style can pair a sweater set with cotton twill crop pants.
Choose colors for the outdoors:
Remember the word messy when dressing for a BBQ. You may get food on you, and possibly a little of the outdoors as well. So white is probably not the best choice, but have fun with color!
A cool jean look is perfect for a BBQ.
For a dressier appearance, try an easy jersey dress with a pop of color.
A sleeveless blouse with a pretty detail matched with a colorful short is a simple feminine look.
Dress appropriately for the weather:
If it’s going to be hot, light fabrics are best, but you also want to guard against sun damage to your skin, so think about hats and possibly a covering to protect your arms and shoulders. For day-to-evening BBQ parties, the temperature could drop, so it’s a good idea to dress in layers!
Mix and match a tunic with a cardigan and cool cargos.
Tie colors together with a fun hat.
A short-sleeve sweater set with Bermuda shorts is an elegant, put-together look.
A printed dress can be very cool in hot weather and make a dramatic statement.
Be thoughtful about your shoes and other accessories. Don’t go with the easy option of athletic wear. Your selections need to be easy, comfortable, and casual, but with something special— that’s what makes it chic. Remember that your accessories can really make a simple outfit pop!
Try interesting ballet flats, or flat sandals. Low to medium wedges are also a good choice.
Hats can be a very functional item at an outdoor BBQ, and what a terific way to ramp up your look and turn casual into casual-chic.
Scarves can get in the way at a BBQ, but fun and unusual belts add a nice touch to complete an informal outfit.
Jewelry should be simple: one focus piece without a lot of ornaments to compete against it. Again, this is a casual affair, so go for playful costume jewelry such as a pendant necklace or a beaded cuff bracelet.
