The best BBQ outfit

As soon as the sun comes out and the temperature rises, you can smell it already: barbecues being fired up. No surprise, because a barbecue isn’t just about delicious grilled food, but also about good company, an ice-cold drink én a warm summer sun. But what do you wear? Luckily, there’s no specific dresscode (unless the host clearly sets one), so you’re free to go in any direction with the perfect BBQ outfit.

By Pascal·07-09-2025·Calculate reading time
The best BBQ outfit
What do you wear to a barbecue? From a polo shirt and shorts to a cap and a sweater for the evening: here’s how to put together a relaxed BBQ outfit that works anywhere.

Polo shirt

The polo has become established as the garment that makes you look well-groomed and relaxed at the same time. Most men's polo shirts are made of sturdy yet comfortable cotton that moves smoothly with you. This gives you all the freedom you need to grill, serve and socialise without feeling restricted. Polo shirts are generally quite robust and can take a knock (and a little stain!). Should some barbecue sauce accidentally get on it, it's often easy to clean. Many polo shirts are also breathable, which is nice when the temperature rises by the grill.

Shorts

A pair of shorts is not only nice and airy, it also gives you maximum freedom of movement. Whether you're helping to light the grill, walking around to talk to everyone or playing a game of football in the garden, you stay comfortable. Go for cargo shorts in which you can stash your belongings. In addition, shorts radiate the ultimate relaxed and summery vibe. So they go perfectly with the informal setting of a barbecue and show that you're ready for a relaxed afternoon or evening. Do make sure to apply plenty of sunscreen to your legs if you have sensitive legs or stand grilling in the sun for a long time!

Cap

Especially during a bright summer day, a good cap is indispensable. It not only protects your eyes from the bright light, but also your face and scalp from harmful UV rays. If you have long hair, it's a good way to keep your hair out of your face while grilling. It's of course also a quick way to look well-groomed when you don't feel like doing your hair. A cap gives your outfit a casual and sporty touch. Thanks to the huge variety of colours, designs and prints, it's easy to find one that suits your style of clothing.

Men's Sweater

Barbecues tend to carry on cosily into the evening hours. Yet even in summer it can cool down considerably once the sun has set. So if you don't want to be forced to stay by the grill, it's wise to bring a men's jumper. This not only keeps you warm, but also means you don't have to worry about mosquitoes biting you. Think of a cotton jumper, a fleece jumper or even a light wool jumper. Another advantage is that you can easily pull it on over your polo. If it does get too warm, you take it off. If it cools down, you put it back on. This makes your outfit flexible.

Sneakers

Although you're mainly looking forward to all the delicious food, you're actually quite active during a barbecue. All the more important, then, that your feet get enough support and grip, even after hours of socialising. Sneakers are therefore the best choice for this day. What's more, these men's shoes also offer more protection, for example if something hot or sharp accidentally falls to the ground or you walk through grass. Most sneakers can take a knock and are also relatively easy to clean. Also not unimportant: they go perfectly with the casual atmosphere of the barbecue!

Extra tips for a successful barbecue

  • Ask whether you can bring something (such as extra salad, baguette, spreads or a drink). This shows that you want the barbecue to be a success.
  • Be prepared to lend a hand, for example with the preparation, serving or clearing away. This is always appreciated.
  • Keep an eye on the weather forecast so you're well prepared for any summer shower, gust of wind or high UV factor.

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