Hi Belle,

My boyfriend and I are spending Memorial Day Weekend with his family.  Can you help me pick a couple of cute outfits to wear?  It’s a pretty relaxed trip to their home in North Carolina.  I think I just need something to wear to a family barbecue and maybe to church.  

Thanks! Tia

Oh, meeting the parents, and staying the whole weekend…bold.  My best advice for what to wear is to look nice but be cautious not to overdress or rush out to buy a ton of new pieces.  The most important thing is that they get to know you, and it’s easier to be authentic if you are wearing clothes you feel comfortable in because they’re yours.  Here are a few outfits that you can probably recreate from basic pieces you already own.

LOFT Eyelet Top ($55) // Gap Scalloped Short ($39) // Madden Aintso Sandal ($60)

A pair of shorts with a nice top and sandal is always an option for casual summer wear.  It’s pulled together but not overly nice.  These Gap shorts are nice; I also like the bright color of these Stylus shorts from JCPenney.  Plus-size ladies should try Old Navy.

I like eyelet for spring/summer.  It’s breezy and fun.  This top from LOFT is great.  This Lucky Brand top with a solid yoke is another great option. I also like this bright yellow blouse from H&M.

For the shoes, I like a flat sandal.  Most important clothing-thing when meeting the parents, choose comfortable shoes.  You may end up walking or standing more than intended, and you don’t want to be whining about your feet.

Neiman Marcus Cardigan ($78) // Geo Lace Dress ($99) // Satya Lotus Drops ($58)

For a look that’s dressed up, but not overdressed, I don’t think you can go wrong with a cardigan and dress.  I like a cotton sundress-style frock for church, but choose whatever you’re comfortable with.  This geo-lace dress from Gilt is a nice pick.  I also like this fun, ikat-print dress from NYDJ.  And don’t miss this pretty white dress from Anthro.

Neiman Marcus makes a great cardigan, and they’re often discounted.  I also like Halogen cardigans; they make lots of great colors and prints (also in plus-size).  Readers have also praised the Merona cardigan in the past.

Again, as mentioned above, choose shoes you’re comfortable wearing.  Life is easier in shoes that don’t pinch or hurt.