What to Wear to a BBQ: Men's Barbecue Outfit Inspiration
BBQ season is upon us and, with UK National BBQ week running from 3rd to 9th of June, there’s no doubt about it that now is the moment to start firing up the grill and gearing up for outdoor gatherings! Fun, engaging, a chance to bask in the sunshine and the perfect occasion for enjoying good food and good company... we all love a backyard BBQ party! But, let's be honest, sometimes an invitation to this type of event can leave us in a bit of pickle, not knowing how best to style ourselves for such a social, summer affair. But there’s no need to worry! To ease your angst, we've taken the initiative to put together a BBQ style guide for Him, so you can dress to impress and don an outfit that leaves a lasting impression. So, read on as we walk you through the best men's outfits for a BBQ.
Male clothing essentials for a BBQ party
First things first, it's important to note that the unspoken summer BBQ dress code is smart-casual. There is an expectation that you rock up looking good but that, ironically, you happened to achieve this with next to no effort. This snippet of info is key to building your BBQ party outfits! That aside, there are a few other BBQ attire golden rules to abide by:
- • Opt for breathable fabrics, like cotton and linen, that will help you withstand the heat.
- • Favour loose cuts and fluid fits, even if just on one half of your body to let air circulate.
- • If you're the chef, avoid sandals and instead prioritise closed-toe shoes for increased protection. Plus, throw on an apron!
Up top, your best bets for nailing an effortlessly chic BBQ look are either a men's button-down shirt or a classic polo – the epitome of smart-casual. If you settle upon the former, roll up your shirt sleeves for extra flair and to increase air flow. Alternatively, on really hot days, slip on a short sleeve shirt design instead. Also, don't be afraid to leave a couple more shirt buttons undone than usual. When it comes to colours, either keep it neutral and monotone for sharp sophistication, or embrace the other extreme and opt for bold prints. Pick a side – timeless minimalism or daring playfulness – and you'll be sure to make a statement.
On your bottom half, you have a little more liberty. Our top choice of BBQ trouser is a pair of chinos. Select a slightly stretchy pair for increased comfort, with a regular cut so that they can be rolled up at the hems to offer a little more breathability as the outdoor gathering gets in full swing. Quick-dry and lightweight microfibre cargo pants are another summer-chic option, again turned up at the ankles for a relaxed look. Alternatively, on really hot days, opt for shorts. You can keep to chino styles or, if you're savvy, you can go for denim, which will conceal any spills or grass marks.
When it comes to footwear, as we've already suggested, the king of the barbecue will want to avoid sandals. If you're not hosting though, then sandals and sliders are a possibility, so long as you keep to slightly smarter styles. Otherwise, you can't go wrong with loafers, boat shoes or moccasins. These easy-to-slip-on flat shoes are lightweight, will let you roam bare foot across the grass when appropriate, and ensure your outfit remains classy from head to toe.
Finally, there are three must-have accessories to polish off your barbecue aesthetic: sunglasses, a watch and a hat – baseball cap, trilby, it's up to you... Mix and match as you see fit!
Can you wear white to a BBQ?
On super sunny days, light coloured clothing is best for keeping cool. In that sense, white clothes are a good pick for outdoor gatherings and garden parties where you'll be exposed to the hot afternoon sunshine. In terms of style, pale palettes and pristine white clothing also provide elegance, helping you achieve a chic look with minimal effort. However, when it comes to barbecues, it's worth keeping it in the forefront of your mind that they're often a messy affair. If you're in charge of cooking, avoid white clothing like the plague, as whatever's sizzling on the barbecue grill is almost guaranteed to spatter. If you're sure to escape any culinary responsibilities, then you've got some leeway. Dressing in white will give you that summer glow and promises a touch of sophistication as you walk through the door, but ultimately it comes down to one question: are you the type of guy that can keep his clothes perfectly clean right up until the party's over? With ketchup and mustard flowing, and the chance that you'll hover around the barbecue chatting or end up laying down on the lawn with a beer in hand, there's plenty of opportunity for your white clothes to acquire marks. In our pragmatic opinion, wearing white to a BBQ is just for the brave, or for the thoroughly spotless man. Fear not though, if you do decide to wear white and you have a little mishap, there are multiple tips and tricks for eliminating stains that'll ultimately save the day.
How to dress for an outdoor barbecue party in the UK this summer, when there is risk of rain?
If, on the day of your BBQ party, the sky is looking a little threatening, then the trick to dressing for the occasion is to bring layers! A jumper or knitted jacket is a good addition to your outfit, even if it's just slung over your shoulders or draped across your arm, until it's actually required. Rain or no rain, a knitted outer layer will protect you from any chill in the air that rolls in with the clouds and will equally keep you comfortable as temperatures dip into the evening. Likewise, a denim jacket might be a good shout – sturdy enough to ward off a bit of drizzle, but lightweight and summery enough to keep you cool and on-season. On the other hand, to avoid tailoring your outfit too much to the rain, why not just invest in an umbrella that will complement your sleek outfit – hopefully providing all the shelter you'll need.
What to wear at a barbecue is now no longer a mystery!
With our style insights, dressing for a barbecue has never been so straightforward! Thanks to the above guidance, you should hopefully be able to enjoy the event to the full – confident and comfortable in your chosen attire. Trust us, if you follow our advice, looking good as a guest is the easy part! All the hard graft – the planning, the prepping of the garden and the cooking – rests on the shoulders of your hosts...