BBQ Fashion: What is the Right Look for Going to a BBQ?

While last year's 'barbecue summer' may have been something of a washout, signs are strong that the weather will be greatly improved this year, meaning men and women will want to look their best when hosting a social barbecue event in their garden, or attending one with friends.

Whether you're grilling the meat or mixing with the crowds, you can still look professional even in the smoky environment of a barbecue. While it can be a challenge to find a stylish and practical apron to assert your authority behind the grill without raising a giggle, you can't go wrong with classic summer styles to keep you cool underneath.

If you've planned your barbecue well, there's a good chance the day will be a warm one, and standing close to the grill you'll soon find it becomes even warmer. For your own comfort, it's important to favour light and airy materials such as cotton and nylon that are easy to wear, and - perhaps even more importantly - easy to clean.

While you'll want to make the most of the sunshine, it's also important to stay safe when you're outdoors for an extended period, so digging out your sunglasses can be considered a must, and wide-brimmed hats are also a good idea for extra protection. Even your footwear needs to be carefully considered, as depending on the weather it could be the ideal time to break in a new pair of sandals or flip flops.

Beyond practical issues, dressing for the part is key to making a good impression on other guests. You don't want to look dour or uninviting, and a lively barbecue event is the perfect time to bring out bright colours and patterns. Classic options like men's polo shirts are always a great choice for comfort and style on warm days, while women could opt for twin sets, whether their own tastes are more inclined towards skirts or loose summer trousers.

Cautious people might also want to prepare for all eventualities when dressing for a barbecue, including bringing spare clothes in case they fall victim to sticky barbecue sauce and want to wash their clothes before they stain. Even when embracing the sunshine, you should try not to forget this is still Britain though - meaning it can be handy to prepare for all weather conditions and bring hooded tops or waterproof coats in case you're caught out.

Adam Singleton writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.