Dressing for Outdoor Spring Events
Spring is here and what I'm most looking forward to is spending more time outdoors. The longer days and warmer temps is a combination that is just too good to pass up. I get eager to get out of the house and spend more time outdoors. One of my favorite spring pre-COVID activities was attending the Charleston Wine & Food Festival (CHSWFF).
Dressing for outdoor events in early spring can be tricky, though. Rather than being just 1 big season, spring seems to be made up of lots of different seasons and you're never quite sure which one you'll get on any given day.
With temperatures that can go from freezing to steamy in a matter of hours, dressing for an all day event like the Culinary Village at CHSWFF requires thoughtful planning. I rely on these tips to make sure my outfits are outdoor-ready without compromising style and comfort.
Dress in Layers
Dressing in layers gives you the flexibility to change your outfit as the weather changes throughout the day. Make sure your removable layers won't need a lot of privacy to add or remove.
TIP: When the temperatures are especially cool or windy, I wear a long, full skirt to hide pants or leggings underneath.
Jetton Park in Cornelius, NC, 2021
What I wear underneath the knit jacket and full skirt…it’s another full outfit.
Home, 2021
The Sunday Gospel Brunch was an early day, outdoor event. I wore leggings underneath to keep my legs warm.
CHSWFF, 2018
For midday events under sunny skys, a light jacket and scarf is all that’s needed
Shucked, CHSWFF, 2017
Keep Your Hands Free
Keeping your hands free is important when you're at an event where the whole purpose is to eat and drink. In the Culinary Village, we use a lanyard with a special holder for carrying our wine glasses when they aren't being used. You'll also want to have an option for carrying your extra layers when they're not being worn instead of carrying them in your hands.
TIP: Wear a jacket or sweater that can be tied around your wait if it gets too hot to wear.
Culinary Village, 2017
TIP: Carry a small backpack or crossbody bag to store smaller items such as a lightweight wrap or scarf.
Culinary Village, 2017
Hanging with the @Cocktail Bandits and wearing my crossbody bag.
Toasted, 2017
Lean Toward Your Comfort Level
I’m not myself when I get cold. I get miserable and cranky, so it’s in everyone’s best interest that I stay warm. I tend to favor knits and faux fur fabrics in the early or late hours of the day when I can’t benefit from the sun's thermal heat. If you're someone who overheats easily, stick with lighter layers and short sleeves.
Fur vest topped with leather jacket
Culinary Village, CHSWFF, 2015
Knit vest, topped with faux fur vest over suede pants.
Nat Fuller’s Bill of Fare, CHSWFF, 2017
By the Charleston waterfront wearing my oversized wool scarf in navy.
CHSWFF, 2018
Stick With A Uniform
Figure out a uniform that works and stick with it. Year after year, I opt for 3-layer uniform of turtleneck + sweater/vest + jacket combo to simplify my outfit planning.
Turtleneck + Cardigan + Jacket
Culinary Village, CHSWFF, 2013
Turtleneck + Vest + Jacket
Culinary Village, CHSWFF, 2015
Turtleneck + Cardigan + Vest
Culinary Village, CHSWFF, 2018
Wear Shoes Your Feet Already Know and Love
This is not the time for those cute, new shoes you've been dying to wear. If you'll be on your feet all day you'll want something extremely comfortable. Durability is also important. In the Culinary Village there's a lot of walking and very little seating. Your shoes must be able to hold up to the day's activities which could include both wet and dusty conditions.
TIP: Leave the brand new or high maintenance shoes at home. Wear shoes that are aleady broken in and can be easily cleaned.
Culinary Village, CHSWFF, 2017
After a long day of walking and standing, my boots need a little TLC.
Renaissance Hotel, CHSWFF, 2018
TIP: Choose footwear that’s both stylish and comfortable.
Sunday Gospel Brunch, CHSWFF, 2018
