It’s the season of the summer bank holiday and with three of the beauties lined up over the next few months, it’s time to start getting excited about your plans and what you’ll wear!
Now that we’re out of lockdown, feel free to ditch the gym gear and experiment with fashion again - even if it’s just for the long weekend.
We’ve put together outfit inspiration for some of the most popular bank holiday pastimes, from drinks in a pub garden to a traditional BBQ; date night to day drinking - and even what to wear when you’re recovering from the night before!
Read on for bank holiday outfit ideas to start your weekend off with a bang.
Pub Garden
It’s official - pub gardens are our new favourite hangout for the bank holiday weekend.
Like almost everyone else in the country, we’ll be flocking to our favourite for a few drinks with friends as we celebrate the arrival of summer.
There are loads of day drinking outfit ideas, however you can’t go wrong with a summer dress.
We love the combination of a pretty floral wrap dress with white canvas trainers or pumps; this duo is both elegant and relaxed at the same time. Feminine gold earrings complete the look, with a traditional denim jacket bringing the best of the 80s to your bank holiday outfit. Choose an ultra-cool bucket bag to complete the boho vibe.
Backyard BBQ
We all love a barbecue, and let’s face it, bank holidays are the perfect time to indulge.
Backyard BBQs are all about making the most of your outside space and spending time with friends and family.
The last thing you want to feel at a casual BBQ is overdressed, but that doesn’t mean you have to totally forego making a fashion statement altogether.
Team a pair of loose wide-leg or palazzo pants with a classic wedge heel and a delicate white tee for a look that’s pretty and put together but still in-line with the relaxed feel. A linen jacket and lightweight scarf are perfect for when the temperature starts to drop in the evening but you’re just not ready for the day to end.
Park Picnic
Indoor dining might still be off the menu but picnics are in for spring! Pack your picnic blanket and your favourite goodies and head out for a perfect alfresco munch with a few of your favourite people.
Style-wise, you’ll likely be cross-legged on the ground so keep it casual and covered. Wear your favourite pair of classic denim jeans with a light and pretty blouse or shirt.
Comfortable shoes make walking to find the perfect spot much more pleasant, while packing a warmer jacket can be a good idea at this time of year if you suddenly find yourself in the shade.
Plus, of course, you’ll need the perfect chic rucksack and rug for the ultimate chic picnic.
Date Night
If your dating life has been on hold for a while, now’s the time you can really start enjoying a romantic night out. While for the moment dinner dates remain outside, there’s no reason you can’t get dressed up for the occasion.
When you’re planning a date outfit, an LBD is a classic for a reason. For a more relaxed setting, choose a day drinking outfit with a higher neckline and pretty mesh sleeves. Pair it with bold and bright colour block heels and a coordinating clutch to add a playful twist, and stay warm with a leather jacket for a hint of rebel chic. Gold drop earrings add the perfect finishing touch.
Girls’ Night
You and your girlfriends usual hang out spot might not be fully open yet, but there’s no reason you can’t plan an evening with your favourite ladies for the bank holiday weekend.
Why not create a ‘party’ space in your back garden or book a table in the outdoor space at your local watering hole and make it an occasion to remember with a little dressing up?
If girls just wanna have fun, then sequins were made for this sort of occasion. Whether you love a bold colour or you prefer classic black, add a touch of sparkle to your outfit.
Peep-toe heels are favourites for a reason, they’ll look great with almost everything. An elegant crossbody bag is a must to make sure you keep hold of your important items (keys, wallet, phone!) wherever the night takes you.
A lightweight shawl can be looped through your bag strap easily if you’re cold at the end of the night.
Recovery Day
Ok, ok, so you might have overdone it a bit over the bank holiday weekend. Hands up who feels a little delicate?
Just because you’re in a fragile state doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy what remains of your long weekend. Choose lightweight, comfortable pieces which look and feel great - nobody wants to be zipped into skinny jeans when they’re feeling less than fabulous.
Light linen joggers are a good choice, as they’re super soft and cosy but still look elegant. Team them with an openwork or knitted hoodie to keep that cosy, at-home feel with an added hint of chic. A pair of metallic sliders will add a touch of glamour to your hangover - and don’t forget to pack your bag with a trusty water bottle so you can rehydrate on the go.
So there you have it - bank holiday style for all occasions. And if we get lucky enough to see some sunshine over the few months, discover the perfect sandals for spring. We have an enticing variety whether you prefer flats for some comfort or heels to dress up an outfit, we’ve got every you need to finish off your look.
