https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/casual-dress-code-for-summer-outdoors Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Tue, 09 Jun 2026 04:05:01 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/casual-dress-code-for-summer-outdoors#post-59587 Wed, 08 Apr 2009 13:20:17 +0000 merry77 59587@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I know what you mean NCyogini. I'd be lost without this group, too.</p> <p>For camping/hiking, I would guess that what will make you look put together in your gear is wearing stuff that fits properly, such as the right length pants (although you probably want a bit shorter than ppl for long pants so they're not getting caught up in things). You might be able to play with color on this some too, but you'll have to think function first, then form. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/casual-dress-code-for-summer-outdoors#post-59586 Wed, 08 Apr 2009 13:19:57 +0000 Lee Hovey 59586@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I also wanted to add that I swear by Ked's for summer shoes. They have comfy version of ballet flats, some really cute skimmers, and lots of summery wedge heels that are as comfy as sneakers. </p> <p>I don't think anyone else of the forum has jumped on the ked's bandwagon with me yet, but after I got a pair of wedges from Marshall's last summer that were my most comsortable shoes all year, I have been wanting to add more Ked's.</p> <p><a href="http://www.keds.com/jump.jsp?itemID=211&#038;itemType=CATEGORY&#038;iMainCat=193&#038;iSubCat=211" rel="nofollow">http://www.keds.com/jump.jsp?i.....SubCat=211</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/casual-dress-code-for-summer-outdoors#post-59583 Wed, 08 Apr 2009 12:28:40 +0000 NCyogini 59583@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You guys are awesome, thank you! Everyone had such great ideas, thank you so much for specific suggestions and visuals! It all seems very do-able from what I have- it seems the only think I would really need (and that seems pretty indispensable) is a pair of clams. </p> <p>What would I do without you ladies? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/casual-dress-code-for-summer-outdoors#post-59541 Wed, 08 Apr 2009 02:31:03 +0000 shiny 59541@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You already got great advice, and I don't know how much mine will count since I don't mind being a little more dressed up (as long as I'm not too overdressed). I'll just add:</p> <p>-A walk in the park?</p> <p>Are we talking a leisurely stroll, including long sit-downs on park benches or picnic blankets... or a bona-fide fitness walk? If the former, then my Me-too flats have proven to be 8-hour flats, and as a plus, they are easy to kick off for relaxing under a tree. If the latter, then yes, a fashion sneaker or even a downright fitness sneaker (in which case, I'm probably opting for gear I can sweat it). It depends on expected MPH. My DH, while taller than me, walks slower than me. I cannot get him to speed up to my normal power-walk gait to save my life. He'd rather lope along. </p> <p>-Supporting hubby at an endurance bicycle race?</p> <p>*Probably* I'd just wear gear, since at these events that's what most people do, and hubby would probably give me a huge gross sweaty hug afterwards, ruining my fancier clothes! However, if I am really just standing on sidelines, and there is a celebratory gathering afterwards (like at a restaurant) I may dress up a bit - sandals or flats, clams, nicer knit top. Simple. </p> <p>-Hiking/Camping? Yeah, I know it's camping, but I still don't want to look like a total slob.</p> <p>Absolutely GEAR for this. You don't want to get sweat, campfire smoke and OFF smell all over your good clothes. Don't do it!! Wear machine washable jeans, top, sturdy sneakers. If you are combining camping with other dressed-up activities, then of course, bring along nicer clothing to wear for the other activities. But wear gear for the camping/hiking parts. </p> <p>-Backyard BBQ? </p> <p>Clams or skirt, knit top, cardi or jean jacket (if it gets nippy), nicer flat shoes (sandals or flats). Maybe a day dress, if I know the other guests will wear one. Leave purse in the car, so you don't have to juggle it with your picnic plate. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/casual-dress-code-for-summer-outdoors#post-59538 Wed, 08 Apr 2009 02:08:11 +0000 JewelryGirl 59538@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm very casual as well - here's what I *think* for summer casual events so far but would LOVE to see a section in the "Guide" from Angie on something like this! </p> <p>For me, it's bremuda shorts, various knits tops, really cool fun flats, and lightweight jewelry. When it's really hot my jewelry gets a lot lighter. Some days I will skip a necklace &#38; just wear earrings cause I don't want anything sticking to my neck during the day (usually has to be pretty hot for that). But, then I pay even closer attention to my earring selections. </p> <p>Oh, and fun little belts. If it's cool at night I might throw a belt on &#38; a cardi over the top. </p> <p>Basically, I switch from pants to bremuda shorts. Lighten up the jewelry and play it up on the fun flats. If we're going out at night (and not much walking) I'll do some fun heeled sandals. I always keep my clothing pretty classic and simple and play it up and spend more on my shoes &#38; jewelry though.</p> <p>Those are my thougths right now anyway. I think my dress is currently highly influenced by this site so have to see what I learn between now &#38; then that might change things up a bit... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/casual-dress-code-for-summer-outdoors#post-59536 Wed, 08 Apr 2009 01:57:37 +0000 Dani 59536@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have a pretty casual lifestyle and for the summer last year, I lived in walking shorts (just above knee length for me) and my clam diggers. I'm adding some nicer knit tops this year as I feel that was lacking for me last year. Here are a few examples:</p> <p><a href="http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Shop_By_Category/knitstees/texturedknits/PRDOVR~13621/13621.jsp" rel="nofollow">http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Brows...../13621.jsp</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Shop_By_Category/knitstees/texturedknits/PRDOVR~13657/13657.jsp" rel="nofollow">http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Brows...../13657.jsp</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Browse/WomenBrowse/Women_Shop_By_Category/knitstees/texturedknits/PRDOVR~12678/12678.jsp" rel="nofollow">http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Brows...../12678.jsp</a></p> <p>For nicer events (like a BBQ), I relied on short sleeve cotton cardigans over a cotton cami. I also discovered the sweet pea style tops last year and have a few of those which were very cool in the heat but looked a little nicer. </p> <p>I agree with Maya's footwear suggestions (I live in my privos over the summer which are very similar to the Natualizers Maya linked to). </p> <p>I would also love to find some casual day dresses in a cotton (or other breathable fabric) as that is a great, low fuss way to look put together. I'm also going to add some flippy, cool skirts. Hope that helped! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/casual-dress-code-for-summer-outdoors#post-59531 Wed, 08 Apr 2009 01:45:11 +0000 merry77 59531@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks for the suggestions, Maya. I like the Sauconys a lot. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/casual-dress-code-for-summer-outdoors#post-59517 Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:02:48 +0000 Maya 59517@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hmm, I think I am confidently one of the most casual dressers on YLF so I feel qualified to answer. These are some basic items I would look for:</p> <p>-Fashion sneakers. They might have to be a more utiliatarian than Cons if you're really hoofing it. If it's just a casual stroll, then Cons should be fine. I personally wear a pair of Sauconys when I go for more active walks. They are not the most stylish shoes in the world, but I care more about my comfort and don't want to be restrained. Something like this:</p> <p><a href="http://www.zappos.com/product/7548863/color/110885" rel="nofollow">http://www.zappos.com/product/7548863/color/110885</a></p> <p>-Slip-on sneakers. I would not go for traditional ballet flats. They are not comfortable and supportive enough for the situations you're describing, and usually not very casual either. Something like this will give you the casual look, but is still appropriate with some of the other items that can't be worn with lace-up sneakers.</p> <p><a href="http://www.zappos.com/n/p/p/7489999.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.zappos.com/n/p/p/7489999.html</a></p> <p>-Clamdiggers<br /> -Walk shorts<br /> -Casual skirts. Knit skirts and denim are great.<br /> -Having seen you, I think you could definitely look great in a pair of faded jeans<br /> -Knit tops. Nice enough to be a step up from a tshirt, but nothing too fancy.<br /> -Bags should be something that won't weigh you down since you'll be active. I'd go for a sling that will keep your hands free.<br /> -Leggings and tunics or dresses will be very comfy and casual. I love this look but haven't had much success with it.</p> <p>As for hiking, I think your priority is to wear the correct gear. This is one of those times that just isn't going to be your most stylish moment, which is fine, because there is a good reason for it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/casual-dress-code-for-summer-outdoors#post-59473 Tue, 07 Apr 2009 18:39:37 +0000 Elika 59473@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think indispensable items would be: clamdiggers, kneelength summer skirts, comfy daydress, sleeveless blouses/girly tops, shortsleeved cardi's/jackets, ballet flats, structured 'fancy' sandals and a bright bag. Oh, and a spring scarf and fun jewellery too. </p> <p>Substitute your denim for clamdiggers and skirts, converse for sandals, and use belts and accessories instead of layers when it gets really warm.</p> <p>I'm still a bit hesitant to give specific advice because I feel I'm not really as style savy as a lot of the other ladies here, but I think these things should set the basics. Otherwise, I'm reading along to hear what other suggestions will come </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/casual-dress-code-for-summer-outdoors#post-59472 Tue, 07 Apr 2009 18:31:18 +0000 Anonymous 59472@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>For events like you've mentioned I love my denim clamdiggers...white and dark rinse. My second choice is straight knee length city shorts. You can still wear the Cons for casual or cute sandals or ballet flats.<br /> On top you might consider knit tops, mesh tops, graphic tee with vest, buttondown shirt in 3/4 or sleeveless over cami, voluminous tops, and the new banded bottom tops all in washable fabrics. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/casual-dress-code-for-summer-outdoors#post-59470 Tue, 07 Apr 2009 18:27:22 +0000 merry77 59470@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm looking forward to seeing people's suggestions on this topic. I also am usually the most dressed up with friends and family.</p> <p>One thing I'm thinking will be very useful for summer is skinny clamdiggers. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/casual-dress-code-for-summer-outdoors#post-59464 Tue, 07 Apr 2009 18:04:16 +0000 NCyogini 59464@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I've found my groove in the casual category for cool weather- dark denim, microcheck pants, knit tops or graphic Ts with layers, Converse, ballet flats, pearls and brooches. Just when I got it down the weather has changed and I need to figure out my summer style!</p> <p>I am good for summer smart-casual dress code for things like going out, dinners, parties, concerts, etc. What I'm stuck on is what to wear to events that are outdoor and very casual. What would be appropriate for:</p> <p>-A walk in the park? </p> <p>-Supporting hubby at an endurance bicycle race?</p> <p>-Hiking/Camping? Yeah, I know it's camping, but I still don't want to look like a total slob.</p> <p>-Backyard BBQ? </p> <p>As it is these days, I always feel like I am the most dressed up of everyone (which I don't mind, really), but I don't want to totally overdo it. Nor do I want to look too casual and plain. What do you ladies think?</p> <p>Happy Spring!</p> <p>Steffie </p>