Memorial Day isn’t a holiday for which we typically don certain colors or over-the-top outfits. Nonetheless, many of us find ourselves attending parties and eating our way through BBQs. (Shout out to hot dogs.) But because there’s no official—or unofficial—uniform for this particular day, we’re often left feeling clueless re: what to wear. The good news? Crafting plus-size Memorial Day outfits isn’t nearly as overwhelming as it might seem. In fact, this holiday is a great excuse to wear whatever makes you feel confident and (most importantly) comfortable.
Most Memorial Day festivities take place outside—usually some iteration of a backyard, patio, or pool. After all, the month of May is when summer weather starts arriving, thawing the last of the spring frosts. And as the temperatures rise, we’ll use any excuse to spend time outdoors—while looking absolutely adorable. Of course, Memorial Day is more about honoring fallen soldiers than switching our wardrobes from spring to summer, but we’d be remiss not to acknowledge that one still has to get dressed on this day (and might need some inspiration, too).
So taking into consideration that summer is quickly approaching—and that we’re all itching to get outside and bask in the sun—the plus-size Memorial Day outfits below are the perfect way to transition into the hotter months. Whether you’re planning on spending the holiday with your immediate family in the backyard or hanging out with your BFFs on the patio of your favorite bar, we’ve whipped up a can’t-miss look for you to try out this Memorial Day. Embrace the warmth and have fun—you deserve it.
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1. For a Low-Key BBQ
Ooh, fire up that grill—this gal is ready to spend the day eating hot dogs and sipping cold beverages. And what better way to do just that than with a pair of chic elastic-waist pants and a bandana top? The combination is so ridiculously trendy, folks. Add in a pair of ’90s-inspired sunnies and chunky sneakers, and you’ve got this holiday on lock.
shop the look
top — $29 from Nordstrom
pants — $88 from WRAY
shoes — $36 from ASOS
sunglasses — $79 from Crap Eyewear
2. For a Memorial Day Picnic
There’s nothing more idyllic than wearing a gingham dress to a picnic. (We don’t make the rules!) So go ahead and live your most cottagecore life with a gingham midi—plus a bright bag and martini-shaped earrings to spice it all up. It’s kind of difficult to not be obsessed with this outfit.
shop the look
dress — $75.50 from Torrid
bag — $80 from JW Pei
shoes — $19.99 from Target
earrings — $54 from BaubleBar
3. For Pool Party Hopping
Clothes? Don’t know her. Spend this Memorial Day jaunting from pool party to pool party in a bright and fun rainbow bikini. Let your swimsuit be the star of the show by keeping the accessories nice and simple. A classic straw bag and neutral sandals will do just fine.
shop the look
bikini top — $59.50 from Torrid
bikini bottoms — $44.50 from Torrid
bag — $58 from Nordstrom
shoes — $100 from Cougar
4. For a Casual Backyard Bonfire
The beginning of summer requires s’mores—and there’s just something about denim shorts and a cute top that’s perfect for roasting marshmallows. We love a rainbow tie-strap moment, but any blouse you feel confident in will do here. Just don’t forget the chic sunglasses to wear before the sun goes down, and a pair of chunky sandals to keep things trendy.
shop the look
top — $29.99 from Old Navy
shorts — $29.99 from H&M
shoes — $80 from Cougar
sunglasses — $79 from Crap Eyewear
5. For a Memorial Day Happy Hour
If you’re spending Memorial Day away from the backyard and chilling on your local bar’s patio instead, keep it cool and casual. Opt for a fun button-down paired with jeans and heels this holiday. It’s a can’t-miss combo that’s surprisingly chic (and comfortable to boot). Of course, we’d be remiss if we didn’t also recommend some dramatic sunglasses to finish off the look. It’s just a no-brainer.
