The Stylish Way to Throw an End of Summer BBQ

Now that the invites are sent, the food is prepped, and the table is set, it’s time to throw on your party clothes. So we’ve got you covered—whether you’re hosting or heading to the barbecue—with these casually chic picks that feel summery but will be fashionable (and wearable) when fall rolls around.

As a consummate entertainer and amateur chef, Jessica’s barbecue style staples include a breezy tank, comfy pants in a fashion-forward cut, flats because she knows she’ll be cooking a feast, a cute jacket to put on when her apron comes off, her signature edgy but minimalist earrings, and of course a scarf to ward off the late evening chill.  “I always want to look polished but at the same time be dressed down, so my guests feel relaxed and at home,” she says.

To get Jessica’s look, check out these high and low options that will leave you looking and feeling at ease in the crowd:

{1} Jessica raves about the virtues of a scarf—it’s an accessory that provides style, warmth, and much needed cover for those unexpected spills (watch out for ketchup!). This Love Quotes NYC Eyelash scarf is lightweight enough for August.

{2} Nothing says effortless like Joie’s Balsa Top featured above. If you want a similar breezy look at a must-have price, Frenchi offers a similar style.

{3} Jessica would trade her fave apron from Anthropologie for this Line & Dot Ink Blazer, which lends a tough edge to the sweet softness of the BBQ ensemble. Plus, it’s perfect for adding flair to Ts and jeans this fall. A Gap Terry Moto Jacket or Free People Canvas Motorcycle Jacket would look equally cute too.

{4} Of-the-moment harem pants are Jessica’s relaxed pick for the evening. Jessica liked these smudge tie dye jersey trousers from Top Shop because they’re an airy riff on the trend and the pink tones say summer night. If you’re looking for a solid-colored harem pant or loose trouser, try these Helmut black jersey pants or alice + olivia lavender Arthur Pants.

{5} Jessica’s favorite pyramid stud earrings are handmade in Wendy Nichol’s Soho studio in NYC. Stores like H&M, Nordstrom, and The Limited also sell geometric stud earrings.

{6} Because she’ll be manning the grill or standing around it chatting for most of the evening, Jessica likes to slip on comfy flats like this ballet style from TOMS. Bonus: For every shoe purchase made, TOMS donates a pair of new shoes to a child in need.

As a classic, modern dad (and chocolate lover), Christopher opts for timeless pieces that can be styled up or down during all seasons.

To get Christopher’s look, check out his cool but comfortable choices that are perfect for entertaining outdoors:

{1} Because the summer sun doesn’t set until the later hours, Christopher loves sporting his fave Tortoise Shell Knockaround sunglasses (a brand that has many affordable, fashionable styles).

{2} The wallet is one of the few accessories men have to choose from and Christopher selected this handmade wood wallet by Slim Timber.

{3} Christopher’s burnt red Worker Trousers from Oliver Spencer at the Need Supply Co. are a twist on the classic chino and were made for an end-of-summer barbecue. Looking for other colored options that are a good deal, Gap’s lived-in slim khaki are a good fit.

{4} Summer weather in LA is warm during the day and cool at night, so Christopher picked a sustainably designed Nau m1 polo stripe shirt. This Gap sun-washed pique polo also offers a versatile relaxed feel.

{5} You can’t go wrong with Christopher’s classic kicks. Bonus: these Ethletic All White Low-top Sneakers from the Autonomie Project are made from fair trade, organic, and sustainable materials.

{6} Now that smartphones are accessories we can’t live without, Christopher opts for a radiation reducing iPhone cover from Pong to protect his and others’ health.

{7} Mast Brothers Chocolate bars make a special dessert or thank you gift for the barbecue’s host (but watch out because it’s Christopher’s favorite).

What would you wear to an end-of-summer party?

This is the final post in a series of four about how to throw an inspired and easy end-of-summer barbecue. Read more about our favorite recipes, the eco-friendly household items we’d use to host this party, and our DIY decor.