Barbecue Season.
It's the time of year where beer will be drank, food will be charred, friends will gather, bugs will bite, and unfortunately sweat will ensue. The inspiration for this post was to be able to dress appropriately, while keeping cool, for different types of summer barbecues. I don't know what the weather is like in the rest of the country (or world), but Cincinnati summers are hot and muggy- and it's not so much the heat as it is the humidity. The following looks aim for keeping cool but still being able to layer at the same time. My friend Aaron, an Industrial Design student at DAAP, was kind enough to spare some time to be in this shoot for me.
Look 1: With the Boys
Simple. Casual. Clean.
This is a look that you can keep cool in and not get made fun of by your boys for being over-dressed. A vintage polo can be a good accessory in warm summers because of the types of blends that were used.
The Truth about Shoes
White canvas sneakers are a great summer shoe - I wouldn't worry about keeping them white. A friend of mine had a good quote about shoes "they're shoes, not unicorns." meaning wear them for their purpose and don't stress if they get smudged or dirty. Yes, it's upsetting when the first stain appears, but hey, they look more traveled the dirtier they are. If you seriously want a nice pair of shoes to keep clean go for darker colors because they are more forgiving to stains.
I've always thought that Aaron had phenomenal taste in watches -he's the one who turned me onto Skagen. His eye for clean and modern is very acute. Perhaps Industrial Design school contributed to his fresh taste of aesthetics.
- Shirt by Le Tigre (vintage)
- Shorts by Gap
- Shoes by Vans, Low Pros via Journey's
- Watch by Alessi, AL8000 Luna
- Sunglasses from a street vendor
Look 2: With the Family
Whether it's with your girlfriend, your friend, or your family, you want to look respectful. Typically college students spend roughly 9 months in school and see their families sparingly. Take the time to show your family some respect by not dressing like you're going to a lecture class at 8 a.m. and woke up at 7:55.
If you're with a friend's or girlfriend's family this is especially important for a good impression of yourself. Dress respectfully and you will be respected. A word to the wise though, don't OVER dress. Over dressing can result in people thinking you are pompous. I'm not saying change your style for a girl or friend- I'm simply saying to be your own judge. Usually an event like this wouldn't imply a first time encounter with someone's family, so match your outfit to what you believe is appropriate.
Dig a Little Deeper
As hot as it can be during summer, layering can be hard to execute but, I believe, is still essential to this situation. Anyone can throw a pair of top siders, shorts, and a polo on but it takes a little extra to add the cardigan. By doing so, you will improve your overall look because it looks as though you've put more thought into your outfit. The key term is "breathable". The only way I can really tell if it is breathable or not is by feeling the material and trying it on in the store. These types of clothing tend to "set on" the skin rather than "cover" it.
The Small Things Count
Like layering, a little extra detail can go a long way. I think that cuffing your shorts is a stylish way to get a little extra air to your skin. Not everyone is a fan and I understand that but the best way to see if it looks good is to try it in a mirror- if it's not you, it's not you.
(side note: the shorts were pressed. Trust me. It's that damn humidity uckin with my shiii)
Summer Colors: Yellow.
Yellow to me is a fantastic summer color. It doesn't attract a lot of heat but does attract attention. In this case, say meeting a girlfriend's family (extended or not), you want to be noticed but only subtly. A light yellow will gain attention to the eye without screaming "LOOK AT ME!" Also note that the white cardigan washes out the yellow a bit to tone it down. As for the cardigan the nautical stripe is always a safe look in the summer.
- cardigan by BDG from Urban Outfitters
- polo thrifted
- shorts by Ralph Lauren from Macy's
- shoes by Sperry
-sunglasses by Ray Ban, Wayfarer
Thing to note: I always think a cardigan is good piece to have. Sometimes summer nights can be surprisingly chilly - especially for those fortunate to live on the coast or maybe in desert-like areas. The cardigan can be easily taken off and still light enough to carry.
Look 3: With the Boss
If you work, in any setting, there usually is a company picnic/grill out once a year if you're lucky. Sometimes it's invite only. So what do you wear? Well once again, considering the setting, your dress should be appropriate. I think 'invite only' translates to 'pants only'. Leave the shorts at home.
Again. Layering.
This may be the look that needs the most time spent on it. The key to this look is the linen pants. If it weren't for them, this look could get really hot in a hurry. Linen is a great lightweight fabric that is very versatile in summer wear. Linen is also appropriate in the work place.
Thing to note: If you are one to get hot quickly, lose the socks with the shoes. Just don't forget the Gold bond Foot Powder.... Serious, it saves lives.
Be bold yet subtle by putting a plaid under a solid. Make sure the shirt you choose is lightweight too. This shirt, in particular, is short sleeve to cut down on fabric to skin area.
It is ALWAYS appropriate to wear sunglasses. Some people tend to thing that sunglasses are unprofessional - maybe a Midwest thing. You should always protect your eyes and what better way than with classic Ray Bans or aviators. Which is something to remember - DON'T wear flashy shades i.e. reflector aviators, crazy colored wayfarers, etc. This will make you come off as childish. Stick to classics.
The Secret Weapon.
A handkerchief is a great accessory to carry with you at all times in the summer, even at a formal event. This is vital for keeping the sweat off your brow when talking to people at the party or any setting. Thus, I always have one on hand.
- cardigan by Gap
- shirt thrifted
- pants by Uniqlo
- belt by Fossil
- shoes by Clarks, Beeswax Desert Boots
- watch by Alessi
- handkerchief thrifted
- sunglasses by Ray Ban, Wayfarer
