Aim for comfort, ease and great style. Call your host or hostess if you need more direction.

Step 2:

Look for clothes that are easy to wear and easy to clean: cotton, nylon, blends and silk.

Step 3:

Think separates: shorts, skirts, easy shirts and the latest thinking in pants.

Step 4:

Wear lively, trendy pieces for summer barbecues, parties and backyard gatherings.

Step 5:

Set the mood with bright colors, big patterns and interesting materials.

Step 6:

Choose fun summer shoes: flip-flops, tennis shoes, sandals and slides.

Step 7:

Take along layering pieces in case the weather suddenly changes: sweatshirts, cotton sweaters, hooded jackets and big shirts.

Step 8:

For women, choose versatile twinsets in silk, lightweight wool, French terry and cotton.

Step 9:

Take along accessories. Sunglasses, hats and scarves keep the sun off and spice up your outfit.