Whether it is a music festival, outdoor wedding, sporting event, or backyard BBQ, mastering warm weather styling for alfresco affairs is a must. Looking fashionable yet feeling completely comfortable in those outdoor elements requires some strategic outfit planning.
Here, we look at how to assemble outfits that nail that magic combination of style and practicality no matter the outdoor occasion. With these tips, you will be set to look amazing while soaking up all that sunshine.
Fabrics to Prioritize
When dressing for extended time outside, breathable fabrics designed to keep you cool and dry are key for enjoyable wear. Focus on lightweight, moisture-wicking textiles like:
Cotton
This all-natural fiber is highly absorbent and allows maximum airflow, making cotton tees, dresses and shorts top outdoor picks.
Linen
Crisp linen also has superb temperature-regulating properties. Flowy linen shirts, pants and dresses feel breezy and relaxed for sultry days.
Performance Synthetics
Technical activewear blends featuring nylon, spandex or polyester excel at pulling sweat away from the body to keep you dry.
The Right Shoes
While sandals are an obvious outdoor shoe choice, do not discount the versatility of lightweight sneakers or low-top canvas shoes for running around. Look for:
Breathable Mesh
Shoes with mesh knit or perforated paneling allow feet to breathe more freely rather than leather/suede which can feel swampy.
Flexible Soles
You’ll likely be doing lots of walking, so go for flexible rubber soles with good traction over stiff or slippery leather bottoms.
Moisture-Wicking
If wearing sneakers, seek out activewear versions with sweat-wicking moisture management to keep feet drier for longer.
Seasonal Accessories
Having the proper accessories completes those functional yet stylish outdoor outfits. Do not leave home without:
Sunglasses
Protecting your eyes is crucial. The people at OE Sunglasses recommend scoring a deal on discount sunglasses with impact-resistant polarized lenses to combat bright glare.
Sun Hats/Visors
A classic baseball cap or wide-brimmed sun hat blocks harsh rays from your face and shoulders. Look for sweat-wicking styles.
Crossbody Bags
Small hands-free crossbody purses or belt bags allow you to carry just essentials while keeping arms free and unencumbered.
Portable Fans
Today’s rechargeable handheld fans pack high-velocity airflow into tiny, easily packable units designed to keep you cool on-the-go.
Coordinating Layers
Having the option to shed and add back layers is pivotal as outdoor temperatures fluctuate from sweltering sun to brisk breezes.
Lightweight Jackets
A denim jacket, utility jacket or pullover hoodie makes for a perfect outer layer to fend off wind and evening chills.
Button Downs
Breezy oversized button downs work as both shirts and lightweight jackets that can be tied around the waist after removing.
Maxi Dresses
Long, flowy maxi dresses that can have their skirts hitched up once the sun goes down are closet superstars for staying comfy yet covered.
Casual Styling Combos
Musical Festivals
Cut-off denim shorts, graphic tees, tanks, flannels, and sneakers create the ideal blank canvas for accessorizing with fun extras like bucket hats, fanny packs and funky sunglasses.
Outdoor Weddings
Midi skirts, nice shorts, or breezy sundresses strike the right balance between dressed up and indoor/outdoor versatility when paired with sandals and lightweight jackets.
Backyard Parties
You can’t go wrong with laid-back looks like shorts or sundresses topped with casual button-downs or hoodies when the night cools off.
Ballgames
Supportive sneakers, casual tees, shorts, or track pants all work perfectly for those outdoor sporting events. Layer on a performance hoodie or jacket if necessitated.
Conclusion
No matter what al fresco plan is on your schedule, piecing together outfits from these versatile basics helps you stay cool, comfortable, and wonderfully put-together from the first sunny rays to after the stars appear.