As the mercury rises, our social calendars become filled with outdoor gatherings that scream ‘summer vibes’! From beachside picnics to rooftop soirees, there’s no shortage of opportunities to soak up the sun and good times. But one classic summer staple that still gets everyone excited is the humble BBQ. Gone are the days when BBQs were relegated to the winter months; today, they’re a staple of warm-weather living.
In fact, summer BBQs have evolved into a fusion of backyard bash and high-end garden party. And what better way to elevate this beloved tradition than with a stylish wardrobe that’s equal parts comfortable and chic? With this guide, you’ll never be unsure about what to wear to your next outdoor soiree.
Summer Barbecue Party Outfit Ideas
While our previous post focused on what to wear for a picnic, we’re shifting gears to explore the unique considerations for a backyard BBQ party. The intense summer heat and casual atmosphere of an outdoor grill session can be intimidating when it comes to deciding what to wear. Meanwhile, garden parties often require a touch more formality. Fortunately, the solution lies in striking a balance between these two extremes.
You don’t need to go out and buy anything new – simply look at your existing wardrobe with fresh eyes and we’ll guide you through styling the perfect outfit from the clothes you already own.
Tips On Styling
When selecting an outfit for outdoor summer events, it’s essential to consider a few key factors that will keep you comfortable and looking great. First and foremost, think about the fabric of the dress. A breathable fabric is crucial for beating the heat and staying stylish. If you’re worried about sun exposure, opt for light-colored dresses in pastel hues or nude tones. As a backup plan, pair your darker dress with a soft-colored cardigan or kimono to balance out the look.
When it comes to accessories, sunglasses are a must-have for shielding your eyes from the sun’s glare. If you’re rocking a printed dress, make sure the pattern isn’t too busy – instead, choose abstract or lively floral prints that add visual interest without overwhelming the senses. To take your outfit to the next level, incorporate multi-purpose accessories like scrunchies that can be worn on the wrist and used as a hair tie when needed.
Finally, prioritize sun protection by covering up as much skin as possible with long dresses. If you’re wearing shorts or a sleeveless dress, don’t forget to slather on sunscreen to keep your skin safe from those harsh UV rays.
20 – Wear Your Button-Up Striped Shirt With your Boyfriend Shorts
To elevate a simple look, combine any dress shirt from your collection with boyfriend shorts and finish it off with a crisp white hat. While pairing a dress shirt with denim is always a great idea, I recommend opting for pastel-colored shirts to create a harmonious balance in your outfit. For instance, you can pair a classic striped button-down with the perfect pair of boyfriend shorts and top it all off with a stylish Panama straw hat.
19 – Checkered Knee-length Dress With Sneakers For A Casual Look
For a stylish yet relaxed look, opt for a knee-length dress with a geometric print, such as checks or stripes. A smart choice is to pair it with comfortable sneakers that provide support and flexibility. Complete the outfit with a sleek black cross-body bag and wear your hair down for a effortless finish. If you’re looking for more ideas on how to style a checkered dress, you can explore other options here.
18 – Wear An Oversized Tee With Denim Shorts
When it comes to staying cool and comfortable this summer, one often overlooked strategy is incorporating oversized clothing into your wardrobe. A great place to start is with an oversized t-shirt, which can be easily paired with a pair of denim shorts for a relaxed yet stylish look. To complete the outfit, consider adding some chic shades to protect your eyes from the sun’s glare and make a fashion statement. For example, you could opt for the SheIn Women’s Distressed Shorts at $25.
99 or the boqopod Clout Heart Shaped Sunglasses at $8.99.
17 – Floral Maxi Dress With A Hat
When it comes to creating a stylish summer outfit, floral prints are a great choice. A v-neck maxi dress is a fantastic starting point, and adding a belt can instantly elevate the look. To take your ensemble to the next level, consider accessorizing with a hat and chic sunglasses. For an added touch of sophistication, you can even match the color of your shoes to that of the hat.
16 – Go For A Simple Knee-Length Dress And Pair It With Sandles
For a stylish and comfortable outfit, consider pairing a knee-length dress with slits on the sides in a warm shade with minimal accessories and black sandals for a touch of elegance. Alternatively, if you’re feeling shorts-friendly, opt for a midi dress that can be tucked into your shorts for a chic and playful look.
15 – Wear A Button-Up Shirt With A Pleated Skirt
Elevate your style by combining a pleated skirt with a button-up shirt. Pair a statement-making pleated skirt from your wardrobe with a crisp white button-up shirt for a timeless look. Alternatively, wear a tank top and leave the shirt’s buttons open for a stylish, undone effect. Keep accessories simple to let the outfit shine. A pleated skirt is a versatile piece that can be styled in many ways – here are a few more ideas to get you started:
14 – Pleated Green Maxi Dress
While maxi dresses can be stunning, especially when paired with floral prints, there’s also something to be said for a sleek, monochromatic option. To take this style up a notch, consider adding some delicate frills or trim. This will add a touch of elegance to your overall look. For a more relaxed vibe, pair your maxi dress with sandals and you’re ready to go. If the event is outdoors, a stylish hat can be a great way to add some extra flair.
When it comes to jewelry, keep things simple with minimal golden accessories – this will allow the focus to remain on the dress itself.
13 – Pair Ripped Jeans With Plain White Top
Ripped jeans have been a timeless fashion staple for years, and their versatility only adds to their appeal. Not only do they never go out of style, but they’re also an excellent choice for outdoor summer events due to their exceptional breathability. Pair them with a simple white top and you’ll create a stunning look that’s all about the statement piece – the ripped jeans themselves. Want to tone it down? Swap the heels for sneakers or opt for a more understated approach with a straw bag.
Whatever your style, ripped jeans are sure to be a hit.
12 – Go For A Belted Knee-Length Dress With Flip Flops
When it comes to plum-colored attire, the classic knee-length dress is a timeless choice. To elevate the look, consider adding some delicate frills or a sleek monochrome belt. Keep the overall aesthetic simple by pairing the dress with minimal accessories. Flip-flops and effortless, down-styled hair complete the understated yet chic ensemble.
11 – Spaghetti Strap Maxi Dress With A Striped Shirt And Tote Bag
As the sun shines bright on the beach, it’s essential to stay stylish while protecting yourself from those harsh UV rays. For a chic and elegant BBQ party look, opt for a simple maxi dress with spaghetti straps – a timeless choice that never goes out of style. To add a touch of sophistication, layer a striped shirt or linen cardigan over your dress. Not only will it keep you cool, but it’ll also provide an extra layer of protection from the sun’s strong rays.
Finally, complete your look with a bohemian-inspired macrame tote bag that adds a playful and effortless vibe to your overall ensemble. And don’t forget to slip into something comfortable yet stylish like the Summer Dress ($325) or Harlien Croc Embossed Slide Sandal ($31.98).
10 – Pair A Plain Top With Denim Mini-Skirt
When it comes to dressing for an outdoor summer event, a classic combination is pairing a plain top with a denim skirt. For added visual interest, opt for a top featuring pleated or frilled sleeves. To complete the look, add a hat and slip into some comfy sandals. If you want to keep things simple yet stylish, consider nude shade flats to complement your outfit. For inspiration, check out Levi’s Women’s A-line Button Front Mini Skirt ($24.75) or SENSERISE Womens Summer Top ($19.99).
09 – Frilled Cream-Colored Maxi Dress And Pair It With Cane Bag
Take a closer look at the frilled maxi dresses in your wardrobe, as they can instantly elevate the simplicity of this classic style. Pairing it with a chic cane bag and transparent heels will add an air of elegance to your overall look. To make this stylish combination even more accessible, consider checking out affordable options like R.Vivimos’ Womens Summer Dress for $34.99 or Tote Handbag for $26.99.
08 – Level- Up Your Casual Outfit With A Romper
When inspiration is lacking and time is scarce, consider opting for a tried-and-true solution: the humble romper. Not only does it simplify the decision-making process, but it also guarantees a stylish outcome that’s hard to go wrong with.
07 – Pair Your Floral-Print Top with Jeans
Floral prints are timeless fashion staples that can be styled in countless ways to suit any taste or occasion. The versatility of floral patterns lies in their ability to complement a wide range of outfits, from casual to formal. One way to wear them is by pairing a floral top with plain jeans for a chic and effortless look. To add some visual interest, try accessorizing your outfit with a cross-body bag and completing the look with an updo hairstyle.
06 – Wear A Playsuit With Sandals For A Chic Look
For a chic yet effortless look, opt for a lightweight playsuit in a pastel shade. To add some edge, team it up with statement-making corset sandals. When it comes to accessories, less is more – keep jewelry to a minimum and let your hair flow freely down your back.
05 – A Jumpsuit Can Never Disappoint
Embracing the versatility of jumpsuits, one can opt for various styles such as palazzo, wide-leg, culotte, straight cut, or flared designs. The key to pulling off this trend is to stick to light-colored options that exude elegance. To complete the look, pair the jumpsuit with low-heeled shoes for a comfortable and stylish ensemble.
04 – Try A Lively Combination Of Midi Dress With Floral Prints
When it comes to summer outfits, midis are an excellent option that can easily transition from a beach picnic to a bike ride by the water’s edge. For outdoor gatherings or grilling sessions, a floral print midi paired with sunglasses and minimal jewelry is a chic and effortless combination. If you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe, swap out boots for sneakers, perfect for casual events.
03 – Pair High Waisted Jeans With Racerback Crop Top
When it comes to dressing in style while keeping things cool and effortless, pastel colors are an excellent choice. For a simple yet chic outfit, try pairing your favorite pastel-shaded jeans with a crisp white top. To keep the overall look understated, opt for minimal jewelry and add a statement-making bag to elevate your ensemble. For footwear, prioritize comfort and go with sandals that complement your outfit.
02 – Try Off-Shoulder Maxi Dress For A Semi-Formal Look
Elevate your summer style by embracing the versatility of maxi and floral prints at outdoor events. To give this timeless trend a modern twist, try pairing an off-the-shoulder maxi dress with statement heels. Keep jewelry to a minimum and wear your hair down to let the dress take center stage. By doing so, you’ll create a chic and effortless look that exudes summer sophistication.
01 – Side-Cut Denim Skirt With A Simple Top And Spool Heels
To beat the heat, consider wearing a side-cut denim skirt that offers a stylish way to keep cool. A simple top from your existing wardrobe paired with these skits will create a chic outfit. Elevate your look with bold-colored block heels and add a cross-body bag for a pop of personality. If you’re looking for specific options, consider the Women’s Lea Side Slit Denim Midi Skirt or the LASLULU Womens Crop Top.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the dress code for a Summer BBQ?
When it comes to dressing for an outdoor BBQ party, smart casual is often the way to go. This versatile style allows you to look polished and put-together while still feeling relaxed and comfortable. To achieve this effortless chic, consider combining classic fashion elements with more laid-back pieces, such as pairing a checkered midi dress with sneakers or loafers. This clever combination will have you looking great without sacrificing comfort.
Q: What colors do ladies wear to garden bbqs?
For outdoor gatherings like garden BBQ parties, ladies often opt for soft, warm shades that complement the natural surroundings. A neutral base with a pop of color through lace or sleeve details can create a stunning look. To add depth and balance, consider pairing your outfit with dark-colored shoes and accessories. Alternatively, a monochromatic ensemble can be a chic and easy choice when deciding what colors to wear.
Q: Can I wear black color to a summer bbq party?
While black might not be the first color that comes to mind when dressing for a summer party, there’s no rule that says you can’t wear it. To make it work, focus on choosing breathable fabrics and printed designs. This will help create visual interest and distract from the darker tone. To further balance your outfit, incorporate neutral shades through accessories or footwear. With some thoughtful styling, black can be a chic and unexpected choice for a summer soiree.
Q: Should I wear shorts or pants to outdoor summer bbq?
When it comes to summer events, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is crucial. To achieve this, opt for clothing that provides adequate coverage. Breathable fabrics such as linen or cotton are excellent choices. If the event takes place in a shaded area and direct sunlight isn’t expected, shorts might be a viable option. Nevertheless, it’s essential to apply sunscreen liberally to any exposed skin, regardless of your attire choice.
Q: Which fabric is best for a bbq party in hot weather?
The dress’s fabric is a multifaceted component that not only influences its overall aesthetic appeal but also regulates body temperature. The correct choice of fabric can create a cooling effect, even in sweltering heat. In this regard, fabrics such as linen, cotton, rayon, micromodal, chambray, and silk are exemplary choices for hot weather clothing.
