What I’d Actually Wear to a BBQ This Summer (15 Looks That Just Make Sense)
Photo Credit:jalisaevaughn
Every summer, the same thing happens I get invited to a BBQ, stare at my closet like it personally offended me, and end up pulling together an outfit that’s either too hot, too extra, or just not the vibe.
So this year, I made a rule only wear outfits that feel like me—and make sense for the weather, the food, and the folding chairs.
Whether you’re the host, the plus one, or just in it for the sides, here are 15 summer BBQ outfits that feel like actual options (not Pinterest dreams). Most of them are made from staples you already own—and if not, I’ve linked current finds below each look.
And if you want even more outfit ideas, download the 365 Outfit Prompts Guide. Seriously, it’s the cheat sheet every closet needs.
Looking for more Summer Outfit Ideas? Read These Articles Next.
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I Don’t Like Wearing Bikinis- So I Found These Flattering Amazon Swimsuits Instead
When It’s 90 Degrees and You’re Not Wearing Shorts
Flowy black tank dress, white slides, and oversized sunglasses.
Tuckernuck
Black Ric Rac Linen Ellis Dress
$198
Tuckernuck Shoes
White Leather Muse Sandals
$165
Saint Laurent
Ivory New Wave Cat Eye Sunglasses
$470
The Backyard BBQ That Turns Into a Game Night
Relaxed cotton jumpsuit, sporty sandals, and a bucket hat.
FAITHFULL THE BRAND
Antique Navy Stripe Cyrene Jumpsuit
$220
Tuckernuck Shoes
Ivory Riley Jelly Sandals
$75
Tuckernuck
White Livvy Canvas Sunhat with Removable Chinstrap
$92
When You’re Grabbing Ice and Still Want Compliments
Lightweight linen top, breezy midi skirt, platform slides.
Amazon
Cotton Gauze Top
$27
Amazon
The Drop Women's Arhaan Denim Mini Skirt
$39.90
Amazon
Genuine Leather Platform Sandal
$59.90
Family BBQ with Kids Running Everywhere
Tank + pull-on shorts, padded sandals, and a crossbody bag.
Sanctuary
Sunkissed Rib Halter Top
$89
The Flutter Short Fray
MOTHER
$238
Gisel
Solei Sea
$72
Your Friend’s Rooftop BBQ With a Dress Code (But No AC)
Smocked midi dress, raffia wedges, layered gold jewelry.
Lulus
Blakely Blue Chambray Button-Front Mini Dress
$59
Lulus
O'Ahu 2 White Espadrille Platforms
$39
When You Want to Wear Jeans But It’s Hot
Cropped tee, wide-leg jeans, and tan woven sandals.
Old Navy
Snug Crop T-Shirt
$14.00
Mid-Rise Wow Baggy Wide-Leg Jeans
$39.99
Faux-Leather Woven Slide Sandals
$19.99
That “Show Up and Chill” Kind of Cookout
T-shirt dress, bright slides, canvas tote, and claw clip.
Lulus
Ioana Heather Grey Short Sleeve Pleated Faux-Wrap Mini Dress
$49
When You’re Hosting and Don’t Want to Sweat
Wrap-front romper, espadrille flats, and hoop earrings.
Trendy Attitude Medium Wash Backless Denim Romper
$69
The “Yes I Dressed Up for This” Maxi Moment
Tiered maxi dress, strappy sandals, and a straw clutch.
Inaya Orange Textured Tie-Strap Tiered Maxi Dress
$59
Running Late But Still Want to Be Cute
Oversized button-down, bike shorts, and slip-on sneakers.
Oversized Button Down Shirt
$28.49
3 Pack Biker Shorts for Women
$18.99
Comfortable Casual Walking Tennis Shoes
$49.99
Cookout to Fireworks with No Time to Change
Tank + cotton pants, gold hoops, denim jacket for later.
Basic Cotton Ribbed Fitted Tank Top
$19.99
High Waisted Denim Pants with Pockets
$34.99
Gold Earrings
$8.99
Jean Jacket Frayed Washed Button
$38.99
The Romantic BBQ (You Know the One)
Gingham mini dress, lace-up sandals, and tiny shoulder bag.
Straps Party Beach Cami Dress
$29.99
Flip Flops Sandals
$39.99
When You’re the Plus One and Don’t Know Anyone
Knit top +skirt, clear flats, and bold earrings.
Two Piece Outfits Twist Front Halter Cami Tops and Skirt Summer Set
$33.99
Flat Sandals Leather
$25.99
Girls’ BBQ Brunch Before the Real BBQ
Matching set, shell jewelry, oversized tote.
Button Up Tops with Pants
$49.99
Sea Shell Necklace
$9.99
For the Style Pic That Ends Up on Someone’s Instagram
Printed midi skirt, fitted tank, block heels, and sunnies.
Double Layer Seamless Workout Top
$24.98
Floral Print Midi Skirt
$27.99
Women's Low Block Heels Sandals
$39.99
Don’t Forget:
If you’re still staring at your closet like “I have nothing to wear,” download 365 Outfit Ideas. It’s the year-round style backup plan every woman needs.
