Crab feasts are a beloved summer tradition celebrated by many along the East Coast and beyond. These laidback yet lively celebrations bring together family and friends to crack into piles of blue crabs, shrimp, clams and all the fixings. But what exactly does one wear to such a messy yet memorable event?
The key to the perfect crab feast outfit lies in finding comfortable casual attire that can withstand the inevitable drips, stains and smudges. This complete guide will walk you through how to balance style and practicality when dressing for your next crab picking party.
Understanding the Crab Feast Vibe
Crab feasts are casual, fun affairs meant for enjoying time with loved ones. They often take place outdoors during summer months, frequently along beaches or waterfronts. Backyard barbecues, park picnics, and restaurants with deck seating are also popular crab feast venues.
The atmosphere at a crab feast is relaxed, festive and family-friendly. Leave your finest attire behind, as hands-on eating leads to unavoidable messiness. The ideal crab feast outfit is one that’s laidback, breathable and even replaceable if stains set in. Don’t wear anything too precious or delicate.
Crab Feast Fashion Dos and Don’ts
DO opt for casual, breezy summer staples like shorts, tanks, tees, sundresses and lightweight button-downs.
DO choose loose, flowy fits that allow ease of movement for cracking and picking.
DO wear clothes you don’t mind sacrificing to crab butter drips and Old Bay seasoning stains.
DON’T break out your most expensive, intricate outfits. This is no place for heirlooms.
DON’T wear fancy fabrics like silks or satins that require dry cleaning. Stick to easy-wash cottons and linens.
DON’T wear white or extremely light colors unless you plan to trash the outfit after. Juice stains are inevitable.
Fabulous Yet Functional Pieces to Wear
- Sundresses in bright, happy floral prints are a crab feast staple. Aim for breezy, lightweight fabrics.
- Tanks and tees made of moisture-wicking performance fabrics or soft cottons pair perfectly with shorts.
- Jean shorts or skirts allow leg coverage and mobility for sitting on benches and picnic tables.
- Light cardigans or kimonos add warmth after sunset and can hide stains on your top.
- Rompers and jumpsuits mean one-piece convenience. Just be sure your outfit allows for easy bathroom breaks!
- Patterned prints and darker color palettes disguise drips and smudges better than light hues.
- Hats and caps provide shade from the summer sun during outdoor daytime feasts.
- Sandals, boat shoes and casual sneakers make ideal footwear. Leave fancy heels at home.
Ideal Outfits for Women
The Sundress
A brightly colored or printed sundress is a crab feast staple for women. Aim for a breezy, flowy fabric that allows stain-hiding billows. Pair with flat, slip-on sandals or sneakers. Add a denim jacket for chillier nights.
Shorts and Tank
A moisture-wicking tank top with jean shorts or leggings allows breathability on hot days. Roll up tank sleeves or opt for sleeveless to keep cool. Finish with sporty sneakers that can handle spills.
T-Shirt and Skirt
A graphic tee paired with a casual denim, jersey or cotton skirt combines comfort and coverage. Skirts grant leg mobility while sitting. Complete with simple flats or slip-on sandals.
Great Go-To Outfits for Men
The Printed Shirt
A breezy Hawaiian print or plaid button-down shirt adds festive vibes. Rolled sleeves grant arm mobility for serious crab cracking. Darker patterns hide stains. Wear with shorts or jeans and loafers.
Shorts and Tee
Beat the heat in a soft cotton tee and lightweight shorts. Focus on darker shorts that won’t reveal drips as obviously. A humorous graphic tee conveys the casual mood. Finish with sandals or sneakers.
The Casual Button-Down
A laidback short sleeve button-down in a solid hue or pattern provides a polished touch. Pair with dark jeans or shorts. Canvas slip-ons complete the look.
Expert Tips for Planning Your Crab Feast Attire
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Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Outdoor summer feasts can get hot during the day or cool off at night. Layers help adjust.
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Pack an extra change of clothes or a jacket/coverup in case back-ups are needed after a spill or stain strikes.
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If attending multiple events, save your nicer outfit for later festivities that will be less messy and juice-splattering.
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For daytime outdoor crab feasts, don’t forget sun protection like hats, UV protective clothing and waterproof sunscreen.
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Scope out the scene beforehand if possible. More upscale crab feast venues may call for somewhat elevated attire.
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Bring items like stain remover wipes, tide pens and paper towels to manage any outfit mishaps on the spot.
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For women wearing dresses or skirts, choose an appropriate length that allows free movement while cracking and sitting.
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For men, a casual blazer over a polo and darker jeans or chinos can spruce up an outfit for slightly dressier crab feast settings.
The Iconic Elements of a Crab Feast Table
Beyond your personal attire, setting the scene is key to an authentic crab feast. Some iconic elements that set the tone include:
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Newspaper or simple paper table coverings to protect tables and absorb drips.
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Rolls of paper towels for wiping fingers and hands. Wet wipes and hand sanitizer are also useful.
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Mallets and metal crab crackers for cracking tough shells. Don’t forget crab picking knives too.
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Old Bay seasoning and other spices for sprinkling over the fresh crab meat.
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Small bowls for melted butter, lemon wedges and other crab dipping sauces.
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Buckets, bags and paper trays for gathering crab shells and debris.
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Beer, lemonade and other refreshing beverages in coolers with cups and ice.
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Simple decor like summer flowers, nautical motifs and pops of crab-themed colors.
The Most Delicious Crab Feast Side Dishes
While crabs may be the headliner, side dishes are key supporting acts. Classic crab feast fare includes:
- Buttery corn on the cob, a must for any crab party menu.
-Tangy coleslaw, vinegary potato salad or creamy pasta salads.
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Fresh local produce like watermelon, tomatoes and cucumber salad.
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Southern classics like hushpuppies, baked beans or mac and cheese.
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Simple steamed shrimp, clams and smaller seafood to supplement the crab.
The Bottom Line: Focus on Fun
While the food is surely important, crab feasts are about so much more than the menu. They’re about gathering family and friends to laugh, tell stories, make memories and bond over delicious seafood.
So slip into a casual, comfy outfit, grab your mallet and crack into the fun. The secret to pulling off the perfect crab feast ensemble is keeping things laidback, breathable and stain-resistant.
Focus on celebrating the spirit of the occasion rather than worrying about messy clothes. By following these tips on how to balance style and practicality, you’ll be dressed for crab feast success!
Crab Feast Menu Ideas and Side Dishes
There are a few traditional sides that are served at an Eastern Shore crab feast. The first is pickles and cheese. I know, I too was skeptical of this culinary anomaly, but it is a refreshing delight. Simply slice cheddar cheese and pop a pickle on top and attach with a toothpick. I’ve had both dill and bread and butter and they both rise to the occasion. Aside from the local blue crabs and pickles and cheese the rest of the party is pretty much like any other BBQ. Maryland Silver Queen corn is always a hit (sprinkle some Old Bay on your corn for a delicious flavor burst), beans, coleslaw and cornbread. Usually we throw some hot dogs and burgers on the grill too. It’s hard to fill up eating just crabs!
Once you’ve worked up a sweat picking crabs, you’ll want to wet your whistle with an ice cold frosty beverage. Our beer of choice is locally brewed and bottled National Premium. For the non-beer drinking crowd we served another Eastern Shore favorite, the Grapefruit Crush (recipe here). Fresh squeezed juice takes this cocktail to the next level.
Everything You Need to Host Your Crab Feast
Crabs are the main attraction, but there are a few essential tools you’ll need to make your party perfect. Order your crabs a week or two in advance, plan to pick them up right before the party so you can serve them warm. Crab mallets, crackers and knives are a must. Mallets and crackers can be shared, I usually make sure each person has their own crab knife. It’s nice to have a roll of paper towels on each picnic table so people can wipe their hands. Eating crabs is a messy business! Pro tip: plan for three crabs per person, some will eat more some less. A half bushel is about 4 dozen #1s (larges) and will feed about ten people with a few leftover for crab cakes!
- mallets
- crab knives
- crab crackers
- Old Bay Seasoning or J.O. Spice Mix
- apple cider vinegar (for dipping the crab meat in) – some people like butter too
- paper towels
- a bucket to put the crab shells and guts in for easy clean up
- fly fans – a must!
- plastic table cloth
- brown paper (could use newspaper too)
- paper plates, napkins, cutlery for the non crab food
- plastic cups
- BEER! No crab feast is complete without beer, we recommend National Premium, a local brew.
All You Can Eat #Crab Feast
FAQ
What to wear to a crab boil?
For a crab boil, prioritize comfortable and easily washable clothing. Dark, durable fabrics are recommended to minimize the visibility of potential spills. It’s best to avoid wearing anything white or delicate, as the event is known to be messy.
What do you serve with a crab dinner?
Side dishes that pair well with crab include corn on the cob, roasted vegetables (like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts), potatoes (mashed, roasted, or fried), coleslaw, and salads. You can also consider garlic bread, green beans, and macaroni and cheese.
How do you dress a crab?
- Set the crab on its back.
- Using your thumbs or fingers to prise it apart, separate the crab body from the main outer shell.
- Use a teaspoon to scoop out all of the brown meat in the main shell and place it in a bowl, removing any pieces of membrane or shell that come away with it.
What do you bring to a crab feed?
Our crab does arrive pre-cracked, but it doesn’t hurt to have extra utensils on standby just in case. Crab feed etiquette also encourages guests to bring their own sauces and accessories. That includes your own lemons, butter, cocktail sauce, hot sauce and a butter warmer.