Want to know what to wear to a restaurant? We can help with that.
In my eyes, a meal out presents the ideal opportunity to unearth those dressier items from the back of my wardrobe. A dinner date is just the excuse I need to try on everything I own and come up with some of my best dinner outfit ideas.
And I'm not the only one who enjoys this novelty. Just last week, I noticed people next to me wearing dresses and heels to eat a burger in a pub—and why not? If you want a night away from your tracksuit bottoms or leggings and are ready to turn up the glam for dinner (or breakfast, brunch or lunch!), below I've listed 13 outfit ideas that feel fabulous but not too OTT for all your upcoming reservations.
From elegant skirt looks to jeans-and-nice-top combos that are bound to impress, there's a dinner outfit idea for everyone (and every setting) here. Many of these examples work particularly well thanks to their featured footwear and accessories, so be sure to consider the finishing touches when you're styling up your ensembles. Strappy sandals are always a dinner-date winner in our eyes, and you can't go wrong with an amazing bag.
Like what you hear? Keep scrolling for restaurant-ready outfits to try on your next meal out, whether you're going to Pizza Express or The Ritz.
What to Wear to a Restaurant, According to Fashion People
1. Shirt + Straight-Leg Jeans + Block Heels + Clutch
Style Notes: Jeans, a nice shirt and heels will always do the trick. Need further proof? Just take a look at Mary's chic ensemble.
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The shape of this top is just wow.
Our editors really rate H&M denim. This pair goes up to a size 22.
A great pair of elevated black heels is a wardrobe staple.
An investment buy you'll keep forever.
2. Long-Sleeved Shirt Dress + Shoulder Bag + Mesh Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Long sleeves and ankle-grazing hemlines are often essential for summer evening looks when the chill sets in. Keep them classic, chic and tonal for the win.
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Opt for a long-sleeve tee if there's a chance you'll have to queue outside or travel to your restaurant of choice!
These are constantly selling out, so act fast!
The bag on every fashion person's wishlist.
Tie around your head, neck or shoulder bag.
3. Waisted Blazer + Tailored Trousers + Statement Heels
Style Notes: A blazer and jean look takes all the stress out of getting dressed. Opt for a slightly formal style to elevate your denim.
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Between the colour and the cinched-in waist, this blazer is just gorgeous.
A trouser style that’ll never date.
Floral-Appliquéd heels are the easiest way to make an outfit look more expensive.
4. Tank Top + Mini Skirt + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: This is a round-the-clock look that will never fail you. Let a mini skirt and chic ballet flats take your basic tank tops to new levels of cool.
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A tank top is a year-round staple.
This will be the mini skirt you wear on repeat this summer.
M&S shoes are always so comfortable.
I love the shape and the detailing on these.
5. Floral Dress + Heels
Style Notes: Slipping into a floral slip dress is the quickest way to look totally put-together, especially one in a fluid fabric.
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A ready-made outfit.
Such a pretty colour.
6. Strappy Top + Black Trousers
Style Notes: A strappy cami works for most occasions, but the silk-satin variety is ideal for a monochrome dinner look.
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Silk is the ultimate evening fabric.
These also come in a gorgeous beige.
The detailing on these is so cool.
7. Blazer + Linen Shorts + Platform Heels
Style Notes: Blazers are an antidote to those evenings when you don't know what to wear. Opt for a classic colour and shorts in a complementary hue.
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You'll restyle this for all occasions.
A seamless bodysuit will always look polished.
So versatile.
Platform heels are popular again for 2024.
8. High-Neck Top + Maxi Skirt + Shoulder Bag
Style Notes: A cool-girl styling tip is to go monochrome with your more formal outfits . And we all know a black maxi skirt will take any outfit into dressy territory.
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Wait until you see the back of this top.
I've tried on this skirt and love the fit.
A brown bag will make all your outfits feel more polished.
9. Red Dress + Simple Accessories
Style Notes: A red midi dress will feel super comfy but also looks instantly elevated. Add some simple accessories and you're set!
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The perfect dinner dress.
I just can't get enough of Demellier this season.
10. Waistcoat + Tailored Trousers + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: There's something effortlessly stylish about a waistcoat co-ord teamed with minimalist ballet flats. Add a statement bag and swap in heels if your restaurant of choice is a no-flats zone.
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Striped suiting feels so modern.
Try wearing these with heeled mules and a bodysuit for another evening-ready look.
I’m really into pared-back flats this season.
Magda Butrym has the prettiest statement bags.
11. Off-Shoulder Top + White A-line Skirt
Style Notes: When all else fails, an amazing white skirt with a simple black bardot top is a combo to rely on.
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French girl approved.
A skirt you can dress up or down.
Simple but so elegant.
How—I repeat, how—is this high street?
12. Colourful Shirt + Leather Trousers
Style Notes: A bold shirt will take any outfit up a notch. Pair your statement shirt with leather trousers and chic sunnies for an effortless result.
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Team this with a bold red lipstick.
Whistles' leather collection is seriously impressive.
So chic.
13. Strapless Dress + Backless Heels
Style Notes: Put your trusty jeans away for a night in favour of a sultry strapless dress. No need to even think too hard about the rest of your outfit—this will be the centre of attention.
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Add a blazer for the cooler months.
There's no outfit these earrings won't go with.
These will work hard for years to come.
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