Bee Bee Que
I wanted to apologize for being a bit slower on the draw for posts this past month; it appears being a homeowner is much more work than anticipated, ha! BUT I’m back & have some amazing tips for my ladies that want to get down on some major BBQing with their friends, family & men this Summer. Today we take on: The Backyard BBQ Fit.
Rule #1: WEATHER IS EVERYTHING! Always anticipate being overheated vs under; meaning separates & layers are ideal for this event. Depending on your lifestyle & party-habits, this shindig may go all night & you want to be prepared for the evening Summer chill. Always pack a sweater or jacket for the possible late night fire pit hangout & even a pair of sneakers or boots to be sure that you aren’t sitting there freezing your bones off.
Rule #2: Focus on fit & function. Backyard barbecues are for making memories, & fussing with your malfunctioning outfit all night is not going to promote that. Go for simplicity; a fitted [& age appropriate] maxi dress, a fun pair of distressed shorts & a tank, or even a pair of loose fitting printed pants & a cute blouse. Your outfit should be fashion forward, but not so much so that it prevents you from participating in outdoor events & fun. Skirts & short dresses are not ideal candidates for this day; imagine playing horse shoes with a skirt thats blowing up & hair all over the place. Not the look we’re going for…
Rule #3: Be cool & comfortable. This is not the place for Vegas makeup & heels; barbecues are relaxed & easy, & your outfit should follow suit. A simple pony-tail, braid or loose waves are all that you need on this day, not to mention hats are a perfect addition. They’ll provide shade & outfit oomph, but remember hats keep the heat in, so 100 degree weather may not be the time or place. Here are a few of my favorite Summer hairstyles:
Rule #4: Go flat. There is nothing worse than thinking you’ll be the best looking one in the group in your new heels, only to then fall on your face while carrying your purse, plate of food & beverage on the newly landscaped lawn. Not cute. Do yourself a favor & just wear flats. There are so many amazingly chic & party-appropriate styles of gladiators & strappy sandals out there this season that you should have no trouble finding ones that you love. Plus, sandals let the heat out & there is nothing sexy about being the one in the corner with an ice pack on her face to prevent from heat stroke.
Rule #5: Four eyes. Don’t be the one at the party squinting the entire day; bring your sunglasses & be done with it. You can bet your ass someone will snap a few pictures this day & migraines don’t make for cute photo sessions.
Rule #6: Be present. There is nothing worse than being at a BBQ [or hosting one] where everyone is on their phone Instagramming in silence or [my personal favorite] the host is nowhere to be found because he/she didn’t plan ahead. Be a helpful guest & allow your host to enjoy his/her party alongside you not for you. As for those few IG pics, take them upon arrival then put that thing away for the night. This day is about spending time together.
If you follow these few easy steps & rules, I can promise you that you will be having some of the BEST Summer BBQs without compromising yourself or your identity. You worked hard all Winter, now it’s time to enjoy yourself & the ones you love.
Happy Cueing!
Xx.