Sweet Summertime: What to Wear to Outdoor Events This Summer

During the summer season, we all face one common problem: how to dress light and comfortable while rocking a stylish look at a reasonable price. Luckily, Ohio Valley Goodwill has the solution to this problem. Just take a trip to a Goodwill store to stock up on fashions for every outdoor event this summer!

Whether you’re headed to a backyard barbecue, a music festival, an outdoor wedding or just a relaxing day at the lake, Goodwill has the easy, breezy styles you need to stay cool in the sweltering summer heat at every outdoor event on your calendar. Check out these outfit ideas for any outdoor occasion.

Pink shirt with jean shorts and purple purse

Casual events ““  Picnics, family barbecues, shopping trips

Wondering what to wear to a picnic in the park or backyard party this summer? Look no further than Goodwill for stylish yet casual options like sundresses, shorts, or rompers. Top off your outfit with summertime accessories like sunglasses or a wide-brimmed hat. For guys, a go-to casual look for the summer is a graphic t-shirt or polo paired with light-colored shorts. Elevate this look by choosing trendy slip-on sneakers instead of sandals or tennis shoes with laces.

Striped Sundress from Goodwill

Semi-casual events ““ Networking events, outdoor concerts, date night

Need to look sharp but not too dressy at an outdoor event? You’re looking for ” smart casual” attire. Take your casual outfit up a notch by choosing sandals with a slight heel instead of flats. Bring along a light sweater to wear over a strapless sundress. While gentlemen can’t usually get away with wearing shorts to a semi-formal occasion, lightweight seersucker slacks with a polo shirt may be a good alternative.

Yellow short sleeved dress

Formal events ““ Weddings, graduation parties, cocktail parties

It can be particularly tricky to figure out what to wear at outdoor events calling for formal attire, such as weddings, graduation parties, and cocktail parties. You want to look sophisticated and stylish, but not at the risk of overheating. To stay cool, choose lightweight fabrics and lighter colors. For example, look for a long, sleeveless gown made from an ” airy” material such as chiffon or silk jersey. Accessorize your look with elegant earrings and a statement necklace. Men typically have fewer fashion options for formal events, but a safe bet is a light-colored suit (khaki or grey are good choices) in a summer weight fabric.

It is often difficult to get excited about going to an outdoor event in hot, humid, and sticky weather, but at Ohio Valley Goodwill, we are here to help you stay cool and comfortable throughout the summer. Through many generous donations, we are able to keep up with all the latest styles of the season. We also have a wide variety of accessories that enable you to add your own unique touch.

Plus, every time you go shopping at Ohio Valley Goodwill, you are supporting our mission of changing lives through the power of work! When you choose to shop at Goodwill, you’re getting more than a great deal; you’re also making a positive and long-term difference in your community. That’s something to smile about! Find your nearest Ohio Valley Goodwill retail store and check out our latest sales calendar for additional opportunities to save all summer long.