Introduction
As summertime rolls around and backyard BBQs become a staple, you may find yourself wanting to embrace the full spirit of dadhood and dress the part of a stereotypical “BBQ dad.” While items like cargo shorts, polo shirts, and sandals are synonymous with this style, you can put together a fun BBQ dad outfit without looking like you raided your actual father’s closet. With some strategic styling and quintessential accessories, you’ll be ready to man the grill in true suburban dad fashion.
Shop Key Pieces for a BBQ Dad Look
Cargo Shorts
Cargo shorts are a BBQ dad wardrobe essential. Look for a pair made of lightweight cotton or linen that falls just above or below the knee. Neutral colors like tan, olive, or navy are perfect. Make sure they have big side pockets to hold all your grill accessories and beer koozies.
Polo or Camp Collar Shirt
A polo shirt with a couple buttons undone or a camp collar shirt in a fun print or stripes epitomizes BBQ dad realness. You can’t go wrong with blues, greens, pinks, oranges or white. Go for a slimmer, more tailored fit rather than an oversized billowy shirt.
Sandals
Leather sandals or sporty pool slides are ideal BBQ shoes. You want comfort and the ability to kick them off easily. Neutral leathers or nylon straps work with most outfits. Add some visible socks for bonus dad points.
Bucket Hat or Baseball Cap
A bucket hat or baseball cap finishes off the BBQ dad uniform, shielding your eyes from the sun and letting everyone know you mean business at the grill. Choose one in a fun pattern or your favorite team’s logo.
Grill Accessories
Don’t forget the requisite BBQ tools like oversized grilling tongs, a spatula, and a brush. Tuck them into your cargo pockets for quick access. An apron and oven mitts can add extra flair.
Nail the Details for an Authentic BBQ Dad Vibe
Visible Socks
White tube socks peeking out above your sandals take your BBQ dad outfit up a notch. Or opt for neon ankle socks for a retro dad look.
Fanny Pack or Over-the-Shoulder Bag
A tactical fanny pack or small over-the-shoulder bag provides ample space for your phone, wallet, car keys, and other dad carry-alls. Bonus points if it has lots of pockets and compartments.
Sunglasses
Square aviator sunglasses or sporty wraparound shades complement the BBQ dad aesthetic. Make sure they provide UV protection and have polarized lenses to cut glare while manning the grill.
Stubbly Beard
Channel lazy weekend dad realness with some stubble. Let your beard grow for a few days or trim it close depending on the look you’re going for.
Backyard Games
Have some lawn games on hand like cornhole, ladder ball, or croquet. Engage your kids or friends and wait until you’ve got a good buzz going before dominating.
BBQ Dad Style Dos and Don’ts
DO:
- Rolls up sleeves to reveal your masculine, sun-kissed forearms.
- Have a cooler stocked with cheap domestic beer on hand.
- Add some festive touches like red, white and blue tableware or fun napkins.
- Break out the lawn chair to survey your grill kingdom.
- Rock a koozie, sunglasses hang strap, or duct tape wallet.
- Play upbeat dad rock like Springsteen, Mellencamp, or Seger.
DON’T:
- Tuck in your polo shirt. Leave it out to enhance the casual vibe.
- Wear long pants or shorts that fall below the knee. You want to show some leg.
- Sport leather boat shoes or dressy loafers. Stick to laidback footwear.
- Grill barefoot or shirtless. Protect those extremities from splatter.
- Ditch the dad uniform completely. You’ll kill the fun theme.
How to Get in Character as a BBQ Dad
Once your outfit is in order, it’s time to get into character. Here are some tips:
- Practice your best dad jokes and puns. Get your material ready to crack everyone up.
- Work on your grilling technique and secret recipes. Know your cuts of meat and prep your signature sauces.
- Hone your lawn game skills. Brush up on your cornhole, bocce ball, or croquet so you can school the competition.
- Curate your ultimate dad rock playlist. Load up your phone with all the classics to set the mood.
- Perfect your daddest dance moves. Shoulder sways, pointing, fist pumps – do them all with zero shame.
- Drink cheap domestic beer and enjoy it. Relish every bottle of whatever is on sale at the grocery store.
- Focus on being chill and having fun. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Make bad jokes, wear those socks proudly, and enjoy the day.
Sample BBQ Dad Outfits
Here are a few example outfits to spark BBQ dad inspiration:
The Classic
- Navy cargo shorts
- Light blue polo shirt
- Brown leather sandals
- Sunglasses on a neon strap
- Baseball cap
Preppy Dad
- Khaki cargo shorts
- Salmon camp collar short sleeve button-up
- White tube socks
- Boat shoes
- Braided leather belt
- Straw fedora
Retro Dad
- Hunter green shorts
- Vintage baseball tee with team logo
- High white tube socks
- Retro running sneakers
- Terry cloth sweatband
- Aviator sunglasses
Modern Dad
- Chino shorts in burnt orange
- Nylon Hawaiian shirt unbuttoned over tee
- Black slides with white socks
- Black bucket hat
- Stubbly beard
Conclusion
Dressing like a quintessential BBQ dad is all about keeping things casual, fun, and slightly over-the-top. Pick clothes, shoes, and accessories that work for you and help you get into character. Most importantly, embrace your silly side and spend the day dad joking, flipping burgers, and enjoying some brews. Your friends and family will get a kick out of your dedication to the bit. Just don’t take yourself too seriously and you’re guaranteed to have an epic backyard barbecue bash.