Enjoy a Laid-Back Dinner in These 16 Summer Outfits

Now that the temperatures are finally going up (and staying there), it’s time to start thinking about firing up those grills and opening up those balconies and patios for evening get-togethers and meals. And whether you’re planning on hosting or attending, you’ll want to be armed with casual outfits for the summer dinners that’ll happen at any moment.

Given the casual nature of summer dinners, where you’ll most likely be sitting outdoors and enjoying warm nights, friends, and food, creating a casual look that won’t compromise your personal style is essential.

To keep you from stressing out about a chic and laid-back look for the evening, we’re taking inspiration from our favorite fashion girls for looks that can easily be re-created for any casual evening event. With everything from lightweight dresses and tees to leather and denim jackets for when it gets chilly, the only thing you’ll have to think about is enjoying your dinner.

A breezy summer dress will be perfect for dinner. When it gets colder, throw on a black denim jacket for contrast.

There’s a reason jeans, a tee, and a biker jacket are the uniform for casual nights. This look never gets old.

Want to make a dress more casual? A pair of Converse high-tops will do just the trick.

If you still want to be on the dressier side, a lace camisole will keep you cool while also making your ensemble a little more elevated.

Nothing says “casual” like an oversize linen button-down shirt and a linen gauze skirt. You’ll be sipping those margaritas with your friends in no time.

We love a good denim-on-denim look. Use high-waisted wide-leg jeans for a more summery vibe. Then add a pop of color with your purse.

A floral dress is perfect for any occasion, including a casual dinner. Dress it down with simple slides or sandals.

Gingham is one of the quintessential prints for summer, and wearing it into the evening for dinner will keep you in the mood for a picnic. Throw on a denim jacket when it gets colder or if you want to add more texture.

If you’re someone who prefers to stay in a more monochromatic look through the season, a pair of pinstripe pants with a white tee will give you a foolproof summer look. Seal the deal with a cool biker jacket.

A white dress is suitable for any summer dinner, whether it’s an evening garden party or a barbecue. Choose a pair of colorful shoes to give it an extra pop.

Who doesn’t love a striped dress for the summer? Let your dress be the star of the show and wear a simple pair of espadrilles. You’ll easily be able to walk a mile in these wedges.

A lightweight ruffled dress will give you a romantic look without putting too much effort into your ensemble. Dress it down with a pair of fun flats and a patterned bag.

A denim pencil skirt will give your summer ensemble a feel of polish, without getting into the more formal materials. Play with different shades of denim if you want to add dimension to your look.

Pair a plain white tee with belted denim jeans for a look that will be laid-back, comfortable, and put-together. It’ll instantly be a go-to look.

If you haven’t heard, corduroys are back in style. If you’re wearing a colorful pair, keep everything else on the simple side with a heather gray T-shirt and a denim jacket.

Want to steer away from a pair of jeans for dinner? Khaki trousers will give your look instant polish without getting too formal. Throw on a denim shirt and a scarf to contrast the color.

These genius outfits will give you an effortlessly cool look for any summer dinner.