Brunch Outfits: 15 Relaxed but Polished Weekend Looks
Brunch outfit ideas for every season: relaxed-but-polished looks with dresses, jeans, knits and loafers for women and men, from casual cafés to dressier spots.
By Ayoub Farid · · 2 min read
Brunch is the original smart casual occasion: relaxed, social and usually followed by a walk. Your outfit should feel easy, look a little considered and be comfortable sitting down for two hours.
The brunch formula
One comfortable base + one polished piece + good shoes. Jeans and a tee become brunch-ready with a blazer, a nice bag or great loafers.
Spring and summer
- Midi sundress + espadrilles + straw bag
- Linen shirt + wide-leg trousers + sandals
- Striped top + white jeans + loafers
- Slip skirt + fitted tee + sneakers
- Knit polo + pleated skirt + ballet flats
Fall and winter
- Cream knit + straight jeans + loafers + long coat
- Turtleneck + midi skirt + knee boots
- Cardigan + slip dress + ankle boots
- Oversized blazer + tee + jeans
- Sweater dress + belt + boots
For men
- Knit polo + chinos + suede loafers
- Oxford shirt + light jeans + white sneakers
- Crewneck + overshirt + jeans + boots
- Linen shirt + shorts + loafers (summer)
- Cardigan + tee + trousers
Dressier brunch spots
Swap jeans for tailored trousers or a midi dress, add a blazer and simple jewelry. See smart casual dress code.
Tips
- Choose fabrics that don't crease badly when you sit.
- Bring a layer for terraces.
- Light colors and prints feel fresh for daytime.
Brunch outfits by type of place
- Neighborhood café: jeans, a tee or sweatshirt, a light jacket and sneakers. Comfort first.
- Hotel or upscale restaurant: tailored trousers or a midi skirt, a fine knit or blouse, loafers. Men: chinos, knit polo, suede loafers.
- Garden or terrace: a cotton dress or linen set with flat sandals, and a cardigan for shade.
- Bottomless brunch with friends: something fun but forgiving, like a printed top with wide-leg trousers.
What to bring
Sunglasses, a light layer and a bag big enough for a cardigan. If brunch turns into an afternoon walk or shopping, comfortable shoes matter more than anything else you wear.
Try it with your own closet
Ask Wardrobely's AI stylist "Sunday brunch, then a long walk," and get an outfit from your own clothes. More weekend ideas in casual outfits for women and casual outfits for men; for something new, see what to wear today.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear to brunch?
Smart casual: jeans or trousers with a nice top, knit or shirt, or a casual dress, plus loafers, flats, sneakers or boots.
Can I wear sneakers to brunch?
Yes. Clean, minimal sneakers are perfect for most brunch spots.
What should men wear to brunch?
A knit polo, oxford shirt or crewneck with chinos or jeans and loafers or clean sneakers.