What to Wear to a Backyard BBQ

The unofficial start of Summer is just a few days away and with that comes an influx of outdoor party invites. Whether it's a big backyard bash, a picnic in the park or a small group hanging out grilling burgers on the patio, once the temps start to rise you can't help but want to bring everything you do outdoors. Planning what to eat & who to invite is the easy part, deciding what to wear is always the challenge! For me the key to dressing for an outdoor Summer party is looking chic, but effortless while wearing something that will keep me cool. Here are the 4 things I always keep in mind when getting dressed for a Summer Backyard BBQ!

1. Wear a lightweight material & bring a jacket! I always opt for dresses, but obviously shorts & tanks are just as appropriate. Cotton, denim & linen are your best bets when it comes to material because they're breathable, absorbent & will keep you cool. Also don't forget a jacket! Once the sun goes down, so does the temperature, especially in the late Spring/early Summer. And after spending the day in the sun you're likely to get colder faster once the temps drops. You don't want to have to call it a night early because you're cold!
2. Flats, always flats! Backyard BBQ is keyword for casual & the last thing you want is to be teetering around in the grass with wedges while trying to carry your burger & beer from the grill to your seat!
3. Bring sunglasses. Even if it's not super sunny you don't want not have them. Squinting in photos is not a good look plus if you're prone to you makeup melting a little in the heat they'll conceal it!
4. Wear sunscreen (& make sure to apply it before you leave your house)! Especially if you're privy to wearing fun Summer jewelry like I am, the last thing you're going to want is a nice sun~~tan~~burn around that giant statement necklace.

Here are 5 outfits you can't go wrong with!