Fire up those grills, girls, BBQ season is fast approaching. The weather is heating up, our calendars will soon be filling up with fun outdoor activities, and it’ll be light until after 8pm. The prospect of burgers (veggie, of course) in a bouncy brioche bun, a sumptuous selection of salads and plenty of meat (again, not for me) on a Sunday afternoon isn’t far off. I’m salivating at the thought of it. But this isn’t about the food, it’s about the fashion.
Barbecue dress codes are casual, they’re laid-back but they’re also an opportunity to debut a serious look and bring out the best barbeque summer outfits. Let’s be real, there is absolutely no right or wrong when it comes to barbecue dressing. Trust me, you’ll nail the vibe if you’re a mini-dress girly, a Y2K convert or even a major minimalist. But I’m here to make your barbecue summer outfits selection painless and easy. Because nobody needs to be stressed about that.
Grilling 101, there are some rules: flat shoes are a must because as a matter of safety, nobody needs any trip hazards around an open fire – plus, we’re not Real Housewives (sadly). Also, as a seasoned BBQ attendee, I’d recommend going for looser shapes to make room for all the food, but other than that… anything goes. Here are six looks to get you started.
Sundress lovers
They come in packs. The mini sundress lovers who, when the temperature hits 21 degrees, will eschew the leggings and slogan sweats for a pretty printed mini dress. It’s a simple, but failsafe style formula that I’m personally partial to.
For flattering sundresses that you’ll love all summer, try Zara, Urban Outfitters, or Realisation Par and House of CB if you’re feeling flash. When it comes to footwear, trainers are an easy option. High-top Chuck Taylors, classic fresh Air Max or a chunky dad sneaker all work. If you want to add edge, swap them out for cowboy boots.
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Cool and casual
The cool and casual look is one that takes work. Because the way to master this is to look like you’re trying, without even trying. We all know the drill. Pair light khaki shorts with a simple tank, layer on an overshirt or jacket then finish with a chunky sandal.
Have you thought about adding a slick slogan cap or sunnies, too? The key is in the colour pairings, avoid staying monotone but ensure all your picks are muted. It will instantly change your style game, just be super careful when handling the ketchup.
For those wanting to make an instant style splash pull on a pair of socks under your sandals, cue the dad jokes. It might seem out-there, but it’s what all the Insta-girls are doing. Trust me.
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Just add denim
Enter your failsafe barbecue summer outfits formula – it all starts with a pair of shorts. They’re your trusty summertime best friend who will see you through thick and thin. Pair yours with a fun halter top (remember the sun cream) and trainers. Yes it’s basic, but it’s universally loved for a reason. Amp up the fashion with a bucket hat or baseball cap and stand-out sunglasses.
Elsa Hosk, my constant style muse, paired hers with socks and loafers, but if the thought of sweaty feet (yes, I went there) fills you with dread, then Converse feel like the safer option.
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Floor-sweeping dresses
An instant BBQ winner, the floaty dress will have you wafting round the garden/park/eating location with ease. The oversized, breezy silhouette allows for maximum eating potential, plus it’s a one-and-done answer to dressing.
I’d go for floor-grazing options, they’re everywhere for 2023. Print-wise, opt for fun floral dresses, colourful checks or even try animal print. This look works with sandals, trainers or boots – a veritable fashion free-for-all. Pick out your jewellery carefully and you’ll find yourself the most glamorous person at the grill.
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A Y2K vibe is a great idea
You’ve been living under a rock if you’ve not noticed the very obvious re-appearance of the Y2K trend. If, like me, you’re old enough to remember the golden age of Paris and Nicole whirling around Beverly Hills in a blur of Juicy Couture, Louis Vuitton and Thierry Mugler’s Alien, then you’ll be sceptical.
It’s gaudy and out-there: think slogan baby tees, cargos, denim maxis, low-rise everything and vintage-inspired trucker caps and bandanas. To avoid looking like you’re heading to a fancy dress party, steer clear of those diamantes (sad but a must) and keep your Y2K references minimal. Iris Law, Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid are leading the new charge so head to them for inspiration.
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A mini moment
The mini was the official skirt length of summer 2022, with all eyes on that Miu Miu skirt/belt that was everywhere on Instagram. And we’re pleased to report, that it’s the same story for summer 2023.
But for us mere mortals, it’s best to lengthen hems by an inch or two. However that’s not to say the mini skirt shouldn’t be embraced. Opt for a linen one to keep you cool and style it with a light knit and boots for a chic Parisian feel. Just add sunglasses and a mini bag and you’ve mastered the look.
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