Come rain or shine, as soon as May hits - BBQ season is upon us. With such unpredictable weather, planning an outfit to an outdoors event is harder than ever! (I know this only too well having recently hosted an 'indoor BBQ' to celebrate my birthday...) Only in this country do you have to carry a mini umbrella and a tube of Factor 30 around at the same time. So with this in mind, I have put together some fashion essentials for a truly British BBQ...
The Genuine Panama Hat
Nothing says instant summer style like it, and The Panama Hat Company have the best collection around imported directly from Ecuador. I have the Brisa Snap Brim Trilby and can't recommend it enough. This is the first hat I have ever owned that has been sized and fitted to my head and it makes all the difference. It is crucial that the hat sits perfectly for the overall look to work. Of course you can get high street alternatives, but once you have sampled the quality of a genuine Panama you can appreciate and justify the cost and will cherish this hat for years to come. Check out their complete collection of hats for men and women here.
The Statement Scarf...
If you a regular reader of my blog you will know how much I love a brightly coloured scarf and can imagine my delight when this little beauty arrived in the post. The Animal Denim by Siskin London. They have a beautiful collection of fine silk scarves to brighten and compliment any outfit. The designs of their current collection have been inspired by the stunning surroundings of the Pyrénées-Orientales in southern France (sounds magical doesn't it!). They have a very exciting Pop up Shop launching in Marylebone from 29th May - 4th June to showcase their latest Spring / Summer collection and to help promote some equally beautiful British brands not available on the high street. If you are in the area then be sure to check it out, click here for more details!
A Touch Of The Sports Luxe
Of course you can't go wrong with summer wedges for a BBQ, you have the elegance of a heel with the practicality of comfort on unsteady ground. But, if you fancied venturing out from the tan/cork combo - give these fab 'sports luxe' shoes from Dune a go! Compliment with a bright pedicure and a pair of your skinniest jeans for subtle summer style.
To Keep You Warm
When the sun has set and the cool evening breeze is upon you, lose the shades and the panama hat and replace with this beautiful linen waterfall cardigan by Phase Eight. The light grey means it will go with pretty much anything you are wearing and the cut is flattering whatever your shape thanks to the gathering detail on the back. If there was such a thing as an investment purchase for summer evenings, this would be it.
If you have enjoyed this post, please check out my other blog at Scarlett and Me for more on fashion and beauty for mums on the go :)