How to Dress for a Casual Dinner Outside
A casual outdoor dinner provides you with a chance to wear comfortable clothes, mingle and enjoy the outdoor scenery. The outdoors presents some dangers toward your outfit, though. Wear sturdy fabrics such as denim and polyester that will clean off easily when you encounter food stains, grass stains and mud puddles. Does this Spark an idea?
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Women's Clothing
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Women have a range of casual clothing choices. A casual outdoor dinner gives you the chance to wear something that fits comfortably rather than a constricting dress or flowing skirt, so don't waste the opportunity by wearing something that pinches or squeezes your frame. Slip on a pair of comfortable blue jeans and a simple blouse.
A skirt works well, but if its fabric is too lightweight, the wind can blow it up. A simple T-shirt also works well, if you prefer something a little less decorative than a blouse. Throw on a light polyester jacket over your blouse in case it gets chilly.
Men's Clothing
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Casual men's clothing is just as varied as what a woman can wear. Stick with an outfit that is comfortable, such as relaxed-fit jeans and a cotton T-shirt. Even if you're a fan of baggy-pants, hold them in place securely with a belt. Leave your shirt untucked for the most casual look. A pullover or zip-up jacket looks casual and will keep you warm if the wind picks up.
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Accessories
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Although it isn’t generally polite to wear hats indoors, an outdoor dinner allows both men and women to wear a hat without causing offense. Don any style of hat that helps complement your outfit. Casual jewelry is acceptable, too. Women can wear simple bangle bracelets and clunky jewelry, while men can wear something like a neck chain or wrist band. Tennis shoes and sandals are acceptable casual footwear for any guest. Ladies should steer clear of heels, though, in case the dinner is hosted on uneven ground.
Considerations
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An outdoor dinner is an exotic event, but it's also a lot more unreliable than an indoor event. Hope for the best but plan for the worst when it comes to your outfit. For example, wear clothing that is suitable for warm weather, but pack a coat and an umbrella, just to be safe.
Checking your local forecast for the night of the dinner can help you better prepare for what lies ahead through the evening. Speak with your host about the conditions of the event to help determine the best outfit. If the host is having the dinner near a pool, you may want to pack your swimsuit.
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References
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