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Every year, my husband’s co-worker hosts a bonfire during the first weekend in late summer that it’s cool. Another two friends have occasional pig roasts for special occasions. Then there are summer barbeques, picnics and garden receptions, all posing their own fashion dilemmas. What works inside doesn’t always work outside.

We seem to be removed from fire with our electric furnaces, stoves and ovens. To gaze into a bonfire for just a few hours seems to awaken something ancient. My daughter hates for me to wash her clothes after being near one; she wants the smell of fire to stay as long as possible. I like it, too; it must prove that we are instinctively drawn to fire. Sitting in front of a bonfire when it’s about 50 degrees is one of the most sensually pleasant experiences, regardless of blowing smoke and embers. So, the first consideration is to not wear anything that you can’t immediately dry clean or wash. Even if you like the smell, your clothes have been exposed to a good deal of smoke and microscopic debris, which can’t be good for fabrics. Don’t just wear a heavy sweater over lingerie, thinking you won’t need to take it off; you’ll end up being very uncomfortable. Go for at least 2 thinner layers, so that when the fire dies or you move away, you’re prepared for the colder temperatures, but still able to strip down when you’re right in front of the blaze. And don’t forget that bonfires mean casual fun and casual clothes. Also remember that every woman supposedly looks better by flame-light, so that’s another reason to relish the occasion.

Regarding the pig roast, well, it’s not pretty, especially if you’re an animal lover. We are so far removed from nature’s food chain that we don’t even consider where the meat between our bread slices originates. Every so often in the butcher’s area of a grocery store, we get a visual reminder that we’re eating actual animals, but mostly, there’s a disconnection. It's probably so we don’t feel guilty eating something that could have acknowledged-and possibly even nudged-us. I’ve embraced vegetarianism at several times of my life, and still don’t want to forget that hamburger once had big brown eyes and felt cold and pain as I do. Attending a pig roast takes you back to basics. The scenario is usually the same as the bonfire, but, the occasion is usually a bit more upscale. People don’t splurge on buying a whole pig, arrange for a spit, and spend almost 8 hours watching it turn unless it’s a fairly special occasion, which requires a step up from jeans and t-shirts. Often, this is seen at fancy, four-star resorts featuring Hawaiian luaus. Even if the main course wasn’t browning in entirety before your very eyes, more thought needs to be put into your wardrobe based on the location. It wouldn’t hurt to think of something vaguely tropical. A flowered sundress and large, brightly colored accessories would be more “in the spirit” with this summer occasion than a denim mini and plain tank top, for example. Sandals which are fancier than basic flip flops will enable you to fit in with the luxurious surroundings as well. Again, think casual, but a tiny bit more glamorized.

Barbecues and picnics are further down the prestige chain, but never forget that you will be outdoors-so footwear should be appropriate. Leave high wedgies or platform sandals at home, even if you don’t plan on playing team games or dancing. You may even think about doing your makeup in natural light, say in front of a window-instead of the bathroom. Since you’ll be seen in natural light all day, you’ll get a better idea of how your makeup color will really appear, which is in a bluer spectrum outside than the orange spectrum produced with inside incandescent bulbs.

The same goes for garden receptions associated with graduations, appreciation events, or society affairs. For these, go with the fancier heels, since there’s little chance you’ll be doing much more than walking to a table of appetizers. Concurrently, a much fancier ensemble is de rigueur; now’s the chance to wear items that served at past weddings, and that includes dressy hats.

You’ll enjoy opportunities for outside partying even more, knowing you’ll look and feel in sync with the occasion!