Clothes for hosting guests on a quiet evening
Short answer: When you have guests for a quiet evening, your clothes should be comfortable enough that you can relax and neat enough that you feel good opening the door. Choose soft clothes with a relaxed fit that let you be yourself.
Relaxed, but not scruffy
A quiet evening with guests is about conversation, food and company. Your clothes should give you calm, but you probably also want to look presentable. Choose something in a soft fabric with a clean fit and a colour you feel at ease in. A set in a plain fabric often looks both calm and put together. See bamboo sleepwear for women if you want something that feels like home but still suits guests.
Tops that work for sitting and standing
You sit and stand up again and again all evening as you serve and clear away. Choose a top that does not ride up and that covers well when you bend. See bamboo night tops for women if you want a soft top for the quiet evening. A loose fit gives freedom of movement, and a thin fabric stops you getting too warm if several people sit close together in a small room. Keep a cardigan handy in case someone opens a window.
Trousers or shorts for the evening
If you like things light, soft trousers or shorts in a good fabric can be a fine choice for a summer evening. See bamboo shorts for women. Check the length so you feel at ease when you sit on the sofa with others. Trousers with a little extra room at the hip and elastic at the waist cope with a long evening of food without you having to adjust. If you step out into the garden, it is nice to have something longer within reach.
The temperature in the room changes
When more people come into a room, it quickly gets warmer, especially if food is being cooked. Switch on soft lighting and open a window when the room feels heavy. Your clothes should cope with both a cool start and a warm finish. Several thin layers are easier to adjust than one thick one. Keep a blanket on the sofa for guests who feel cold. It is a small gesture that makes people feel welcome.
Slippers and socks for the guests
Do ask guests whether they would like dry socks or slippers if they arrive from the rain. It is a kind gesture and keeps the floor clean. Even if you wear socks yourself, it is nice to have a few spare pairs. Keep a basket by the entrance with clean socks in different sizes. Guests find it easier to relax when their feet are warm and dry, and the evening becomes more relaxed.
Caring for the clothes after a long evening
After an evening of food and conversation the clothes may have picked up the smell of cooking and candles. Air them overnight and wash at 30 to 40 degrees when needed. Viscose from bamboo should dry flat or on a hanger and not at high heat in a tumble dryer. Check for stains and treat them quickly with mild soapy water. With a little care the clothes are ready for the next time you have guests.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear when I have guests for a quiet evening
Soft, relaxed clothes with a clean fit. Choose something you can sit and stand in without adjusting.
Can I wear nightwear when guests are over
Yes, if it is soft and neat. Choose a plain set and keep a cardigan handy.
How do I keep the temperature comfortable
Think in layers, air the room and keep a blanket ready. The room gets warmer when several people sit together.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
