What to wear to a BBQ (husband's work)

[inappropriateraspberry]

Help! I'm going to a barbecue on Saturday and don't know what to wear! It's going to be 16/17° so not warm, and it's for my husband's work so want to look out together. The directors and partners have been invited, but don't know how to pitch it, I don't want to be over or underdressed. I also don't want to feel cold. Was thinking classic - jeans, white shirt and some heeled boots, but husband thinks it's too casual.
I do have lots of midi dresses, as pictured, but not sure of shoes. Boots are too heavy, but sandals will be too cold!
Please help me!

How many people will be there? Where will it be - someone's house, a venue? Who's hosting?

I like the 2nd one. More colourful and nice v neckline. It would go well with wedges or chunky heeled sandals. Layer with a jacket or cardigan in case it gets chilly.

It's at one of the director's homes. There's about 5 couples going I think, so not a big do, but all earning good money (more than us!) and don't want to feel out of place.

I too prefer the neckline and shape of the 2nd pinky dress. Not keen on the patterns, but that is just my preference. Do you have any wedges to wear? Bit of height, but not too formal. Agree with a cardigan, jacket or pashmina for the evening if its chilly.

You look great in the second one. Wear that.

I reckon everyone will be in jeans and a shirt but if your DH wants dress then you will look fab.

I like it too, but the only heels that would work are very high, I'll tower over my husband and I've not worn them for a long time (will prob fall over 😆).

I'd go for the jeans and crisp shirt, or a silk blouse, boots, nice necklace or some earrings not both. Make sure shirt pressed really well. I think dress and sandals too summer garden party for 15 degree BBQ.

No wedges, I got rid of a pair for some reason and always wish I still had them. Must put it on my list! I have a denim jacket that would work and dress it down a bit. Prob take a scarf of some sort as well.

Second one is lovely and perfect for a casual bbq
Denim jacket and boots in case it's colder?

This is my main concern, I do feel the cold, and don't want to be shivering or appear rude and disappear indoors on my own!

I love the red on you, the colour really suits you. I do think dress plus heels for a barbecue at someone's house feels a little much though. I don't think white shirts work on many people, but would be inclined to go with jeans, a blouse or top, jacket and maybe boots. Earrings and bangle, or necklace if neckline is lower. Belt if top short or tucked in.

Thank you everyone for your help! I think I'll feel too weddingy in the dress, but will take some photos tomorrow morning as now in my pjs!
Do you think I could get away with white trainers like these with jeans?

If they are that clean and everything else is well put together, yes absolutely.

Usually the more money people have, the less effort they make. Overdressed is usually a bit of a faux pas. But I like the second dress a lot and I’d dress that down or wear jeans if it was me.

I agree that the dress with heals is a bit OTT for a bbq. How about jeans, boots, a nice soft sweater or pretty shirt, with good jewellery and jacket? Take a lovely gift for your hostess. Job's a good'n!

Out of the dresses, I much prefer the darker one and would wear it with trainers or ankle boots if you'll be chilly.

I would probably go for the jeans and shirt though. Again ankle boots or good trainers.

If you go for the dress, have you something you could wear hidden underneath for warmth? Then you wouldn’t need to bulk up so much with laters on top

I agree with pp jeans a wellironed white t-shirt or bright coloured ( but not busy pattern) blouse boots and a warm jumper for the evening.
Bbqs are traditionally a relaxed affair, don't try to hard , plus you don't want to drip tom sauce on a expensive dress !

For a BBQ in autumn in someone's garden the dress is a bit much. I would go for some trousers/ smart jeans, some smart flat boots and a nice jumper with a jacket and/ or scarf for when it gets cold. If 16° is the maximum expected daytime temp - already quite chilly - then in the late afternoon/ early evening it will be cooooold. 🥶

I'd wear the dress but with a jacket (biker, blazer or giant parka! ) And big blanket scarf and ankle boots. I hate being cold and cold feet is asking for trouble! If you're driving take extra layers in the car and you can always go and put them on. No one will mind and don't worry about people's salaries!

I agree
Espadrilles with toes in so clear tights if chilly 🥶