seashell

Sunny - the top would be ok but not quite what you will see others wearing. Your first suggestion of a button down shirt would probably be best. Even a solid color with some "extra" jewelry would be nice. We've had a month and a half of cold rainy weather but it will be sunny and 60 this weekend. Just start watching the weather the week before and dress in layers. If it does get cold, once people start filling up the tents, it will warm up.

kswl

I've only been to Houston twice but don't think I would wear that to a BBQ there. It does look comfortable, though.

trippinkpj

I love LL Bean, though that top doesn't look like a Houston style to me either. They have a decent selection of button down shorts (check out their wrinkle resistant shirts).

trippinkpj

I meant shirts, LOL.

seashell

One more thing that I thought I would offer...here is a website to a group that I am involved with at the rodeo www.holycowcookers.com . You can pull up their site and click on the rodeo references to see some pictures. Granted, this may be a much more laid back group than the company situation you will be in, but you can get an idea of what you are in for if you walk around. You might also check to see if your DH's partner company has a website with previous years pictures.

GoTravel

Too casual.

Diana's links were probably the best of which you will find.

Let me give you a tip, you will be much better off being overdressed than underdressed.

I'd still skip the Timberlands.

mah1980

Women in Texas really go overboard with dressing and events (have you ever been to a wedding in TX). Therefore, I think you have 2 options:

1) Spend a bunch of money to look just like them a la overpriced jeans and shirts, yet have them still know that you are "from up North" and therefore not one of them; or

2) Where jeans and your boots with a button down shirt and cute jewelry. I would leave the evening bag and bedazzled accessories at home. You are not from Texas and they will know that, so any effort to join their overdressed inclinations would go for naught.

In my personal opinion, I think you would make your husband's company look bad if you went out and bought a bunch of clothes that do not look like you. If you see his co-workers on a semi-regular basis, they will think you look like a clown (rodeo). Just gear your attire to the setting, but don't go overboard or you'll feel awkward and won't have fun.

wsoxrebel

I've lived in and out of TX for years. The days of Linda Evans are long gone, and my last TX neighborhood had more people from above the Mason-Dixon line then below it. Most people had LLBean catalogs.

You need to feel comfortable at the party to feel gracious. Don't wear a plain t-shirt, but plain jeans are fine. As long as you don't tuck your jeans in your Timberlakes, they are fine. Don't wear a bolo tie or a cowboy hat.

Get some funky costume jewelry, enjoy a margarita, and have fun.

sunny16

Guys, I really appreciate the help on this. So far, I think I like mah1980's advice the best. If I don't look like myself, I'll feel uncomfortable. I don't think DH or any of his coworkers are going to try to dress Western, so I'm taking my cues from them. In fact, if the weather is bad, I might just end up wearing a nice sweater instead anyway. But I really do appreciate all the input, and I might end up going shopping this weekend anyway just in case.

Here is a link to boots that look very close to my Timberlands. I don't think they are what some of you are thinking:
http://tinyurl.com/2tg7tl

My boots are brown with the loop on the heel instead of the front of the boot. I will put the hems of my jeans over them, rather than tucking them in.

sunny16

I've finally figured it out. I'm going to wear a burgundy button-down shirt that I already own. I can dress it up or down. I'll feel comfortable and the shirt won't show stains. Woohoo!

DH is settled in his room at the Hotel Indigo and he says it's really nice. I miss him already and can't wait to get down there - provided JetBlue has their act together by then.

LDLee

There is not much I can add here, but I will try anyway.

What you plan to wear will be fine. Although a big deal, barbecue cookoff is pretty casual, even if you are with a host. You have put much more thought into your outfit than most of the women who will be there. You will see everything from jeans and cutoff T-Shirts to high end western wear with turquoise jewelry.

The forecast for Thursday through Saturday is rainy. Most likely your host will have a tent for guests, so you shouldn't have to worry about getting wet.

My experience is team guests have the most fun at the barbecue cookoff. If possible, make sure to visit the other tents to sample their wares. Be prepared for plenty of dancing and adult beverages. Based on your other posts, I assume the host is providing transportation.

The market the Maryanntex referred to is always interesting. If it is open, you should go.

Friday is Go Texan day. It is the official kickoff for the rodeo season (sort of like the first parade for Mardi Gras). You will see many people wearing western wear that day. Just understand, we don't wear jeans and cowboy boots every day.

On Saturday (if you are still in town) the Rodeo parade will be downtown. If you have a chance you should go.

Have fun, and let us know about your experience.

sunny16

LDLee, thanks for the help. I feel a little silly now for worrying about this so much, but I do appreciate all the help I've gotten here! I'll be sure to post a trip report.