Lobster bakes are the ultimate beachside summer event. Friends and family gather to feast on mounds of fresh lobster, clams, corn and other treats hot from the fire pit. The setting is casual, the food is messy and the atmosphere is lively. But what does one wear to a lobster bake to look stylish while still being comfortable and practical? This definitive guide covers everything you need to know to pick the perfect lobster bake outfit.
The Lowdown on Lobster Bakes
Before diving into attire, let’s quickly cover the basics of a classic New England lobster bake:
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Outdoor setting – Most lobster bakes take place on the beach or in someone’s backyard. Some venues may have picnic tables, but often seating is limited.
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Laid-back vibe – Lobster bakes are super casual, social affairs. Don’t expect fancy decor, formalities, or rigid etiquette.
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Seafood stars – Lobster is the headliner, accompanied by clams, mussels, corn, potatoes, and other simple sides.
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DIY dining – Rather than being served individually plated meals, guests line up cafeteria-style to fill their own plates
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Messy eating – Extracting lobster meat, tackling corn on the cob, managing melted butter – lobster bakes are hands-on, messy meals full of drips and spills.
The Cardinal Rules of Lobster Bake Attire
With the casual, outdoor nature of lobster bakes, following a few guidelines with your attire will ensure comfort and ease:
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Prioritize comfort – A lobster bake is no place for restrictive or overly formal wear. Dress for relaxed socializing and messy eating.
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Prepare to get messy – No matter how neat you try to be, juice from cracked lobster shells and melted butter will likely end up on your clothes, so avoid anything too precious.
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Check the weather – Since it’s outdoors, check the forecast and dress accordingly to be prepared for sun, wind, rain, and shifts in temperature.
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Wear layers – The weather at beach events can change suddenly, so layers give you flexibility.
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Opt for casual fabrics – Breathable, easy-care fabrics like cotton, linen, jersey, and knits feel great at the beach.
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Choose easy footwear – From sandy beaches to grassy yards, lobster bakes take place on uneven surfaces, so skip the heels and opt for flats, sneakers, or sandals.
Top Outfit Picks for Women
Assuming warm weather, here are some perfect lobster bake outfits for women:
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A sleeveless cotton sundress with sandals or flats
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Dark denim shorts with a casual printed tank top and boat shoes
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Palazzo pants with a breezy linen shirt, toppers with tie-up espadrilles
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Cotton shorts with a relaxed V-neck t-shirt, topped with a long open cardigan and slip-on sneakers
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A fluttery A-line skirt with a simple sleeveless blouse and flat gladiator-style sandals
Go-To Outfits for Men
For guys attending a lobster bake, here are some ideal options:
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Chino shorts with a short-sleeve polo shirt or linen button-down, plus boat shoes or canvas sneakers
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Dark wash jeans and a casual short-sleeve henley, paired with leather slip-on shoes
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Lightweight pull-on pants with a moisture-wicking golf shirt and simple sneakers
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Cargo shorts with a breathable performance tee, worn with sport sandals with Velcro closures
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Seersucker shorts with a cotton pocket t-shirt, paired with leather loafers or boat shoes
Styling Tips and Accessories
Beyond your basic outfit, a few strategic extra touches can dial up your lobster bake style:
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Hats – A straw fedora, baseball cap, or wide-brim hat adds shade from the sun.
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Sunglasses – Go for sporty frames that can handle active beach play.
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Light layers – A linen shirt, cropped hoodie, or denim jacket handles changes in temperature.
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Scarves/sarongs – Use as a light wrap or impromptu picnic blanket.
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Jewelry – Keep it simple with one or two casual pieces like beaded bracelets or pendant necklaces.
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Totes/backpacks – Carry supplies like sunscreen, sweaters, or an extra pair of shoes.
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Bandanas/rags – Tuck one into a pocket to wipe messy hands and faces on the go.
What Not to Wear to a Lobster Bake
To avoid awkward outfits, steer clear of:
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White clothes – they will end up stained with lobster juices and butter.
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Long flowing maxi dresses or skirts – they’ll end up dragging through food and dirt.
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Fancy heels – save those for indoor cocktail parties, not outdoor picnics.
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Heavy jackets or coats – even on cool nights, light layers work better for fluctuating temperatures.
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Intricate prints – opt instead for solid colors and breezy stripes, patterns will look messy fast.
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Lots of jewelry – limit accessories that could get lost or damaged in all the fun.
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AnythingDryclan or difficult to manage – avoid clothes requiring too much attention that restrict you from digging into the feast.
Show Up in Style and Comfort
Attending a lobster bake is a treat, and putting thought into choosing an outfit you feel great wearing will let you focus on fun times with friends rather than fussing over clothes. With these tips and recommendations, you’ll be dressed just right in comfortable, laid-back looks perfect for indulging in sun, seafood, and summer nostalgia.
