Irish barbeue outfits are something of a misnomer. It’s not really the barbecue you are dressing for at all; instead it’s 90 per cent the weather and 10 per cent the dress code. You want to be warm. You want to feel confident and comfortable, you want to show a bit of skin, or at least appear as if you are not dressing for a never-ending winter.
Ask yourself some of these questions; do you have enough layers for when the sun eventually goes down? Yes? Bring one more. A light cashmere jumper or a large scarf that you can wrap around yourself later in the evening usually helps.
Consider the house you are visiting, will you be standing on grass? If so maybe leave those stilettos at home.
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Spend some time hitting on the perfect combination of comfortable clothes, that you feel yourself in. Summer is the season in which to have a little fun with the lighter side of dressing.
Make the lads wink
Pink is for powerful women, especially bubblegum pink. This top from Irish designer Emma Manley, paired with these wide-leg cropped trousers from River Island makes a look that could be straight from a spring/summer catwalk.
To dress it up a bit, a white shirt would look smart under the top. Add metallic runners from Alexander McQueen (or a brand such as Carven), grab your Penneys toucan clutch and Chloe round glasses and you are good to go.
Totally tropical
Jumpsuits are a great way to remain chic and comfortable, and the drawstring on this H&M jumpsuit will make it flattering. The statement tiger print adds a Japanese twist, and the leather block-heel sandals will allow you to dance the night away, should the gin and tonics go down well. And if they don’t, make use of the gorgeous soft cashmere wrap to keep you cosy.
Blue summer
Petrol blue flatters most people, and Victoria Beckham pieces have exquisite tailoring so, while this shirt is expensive, it will be something you wear again.
Pair it with this high-waisted midi-skirt from Fee G, to nip in your waist and show off your gorgeous new River Island block shoes. This embroidered clutch from Stella and Dot will last you through the summer and you will still be wearing this Zoe Jordan knit on autumn nights by the fire.
It's all in the acessories
Last but not least, men’s barbecue attire requires its own special category. Bomber jackets are great causal items that keep an outfit modern, and this chambray version from Marks & Spencer is easy to wear.
A McQ printed T – so soft on the skin – will be a conversation starter. Match it with these red trousers from Howick, because who doesn’t love red trousers?
Men’s accessories are a category too often over looked. This natural tan leather satchel will go with everything as will these Ray-Bans. And the bracelet? To go with the trousers of course.
