As the outdoor dining season approaches, anticipation builds among families and couples alike. To make the most of this experience, it’s essential to plan ahead – not just for the reservation, but also for your outfit. The key to dressing well outdoors is striking a balance between comfort and style. After all, you never know what the weather may bring! When dining al fresco with friends or loved ones, you want to make a great impression without sacrificing practicality.
Remember, there’s no such thing as overdressing or underdressing when it comes to outdoor dining – just be prepared to take on whatever the day may bring!
What to Wear to a Outdoor Restaurant?
When it comes to planning outdoor dining settings, I’ve curated a diverse selection of stylish looks, from modern chic to regal elegance, to suit various aesthetics. Before we dive into the seasonal inspiration, here are some essential do’s and don’ts for creating an inviting outdoor space:
Do’s and Dont’s of Choosing Your Outfit
When it comes to outdoor dining, dressing for the occasion is crucial. Start by considering the weather forecast – if it’s looking breezy, bring a jacket or coat along just in case. On the other hand, if the day promises to be hot and sunny, opt for flowy pieces that will keep you cool and comfortable. While comfort is key, don’t sacrifice style entirely. Dark colors tend to photograph well at night, making them a great choice for outdoor dining then.
Meanwhile, lighter hues are often more flattering in the morning light. And let’s not forget about texture – incorporating fishnets into your outfit can add an interesting layer of depth and visual interest. Of course, no matter the season or time of day, it’s always important to prioritize sun safety. If you’re dining during the daytime, be sure to apply that sunscreen! And if you’re planning a wintertime date, keep a moisturizer on hand to combat dry air and keep your skin hydrated.
1) Breezy Day
If you’re still waiting for autumn to arrive in full force, don’t worry! These transitional days can be the perfect excuse to enjoy outdoor dining without feeling too hot or cold. To make the most of this weather, consider pairing a neutral-colored bodysuit with a denim jacket. The latter will not only keep your arms warm when the breeze picks up but also add a stylish touch to your overall look.
Choose a shade that complements your jean jacket and you’ll be all set for a cozy yet fashionable outdoor dining experience.
2) Celebratory Dinner
Whether you’re celebrating a friend’s engagement or marking the completion of your thesis, a casual yet elegant dinner at an outdoor restaurant is the perfect setting to unwind. For a stylish and comfortable outfit, consider pairing a knee-length white dress with ruffles for added charm. Elevate the look by adding some wedges, which will not only complement the dress but also add height to your overall appearance.
3) Neon Lights
To make a bold fashion statement, don’t be afraid to push the limits. Neon hues are often overlooked because people are hesitant to wear them, but they can elevate your look like nothing else. Imagine pairing a neon blazer and matching pants with a crisp white shirt for a day out – whether you’re meeting friends or enjoying some solo time. The vibrant colors will boost your confidence and make any outdoor dining experience a memorable one.
If you’re looking to make a statement, consider investing in this dynamic duo: the neon blazer and pant set is available for just $15.98. Alternatively, you could opt for a more understated yet still stylish combination featuring a white kiki crop top at $8.99.
4) Regal Black
There’s something undeniably sleek about an all-black ensemble – so much so that it can be the ultimate go-to choice on certain days when nothing else will do. When the mood strikes, pair your trusty black skinny jeans with a sassy off-the-shoulder black blouse and top it all off with your favorite black shoes for a look that exudes effortless cool.
This chic combination is perfect for a casual day out with friends at an outdoor restaurant – whether you’re grabbing brunch or meeting up for dinner, this outfit will have you feeling confident and put-together every step of the way.
4) A Chilly Day Out
As the cold winter days unfold, dining out becomes an even more delightful experience. To stay both stylish and cozy on chilly nights, I recommend a thoughtful outfit that prioritizes warmth without sacrificing class. A plaid skirt is the perfect canvas for such an ensemble, paired with fishnet tights to add a touch of sophistication while keeping your legs warm. For added insulation, don a warm-toned sweater with a fluffy texture that harmoniously complements the plaid design.
Complete this look with warm and sturdy boots that will keep your feet cozy throughout the meal. With this outfit, not only will your food be satisfyingly hot, but you’ll also be radiating warmth from head to toe.
5) Breakfast Date
Kick-start your day with a delightful combination of waffles, coffee, and quality time with your loved one. If you’re looking for a break from the morning routine or seeking inspiration for a date, I’ve got just the thing. Mini-dresses are always a great choice on a sunny day, especially when paired with a stylish belt and a pair of trendy sunglasses. For a fresh look, consider the Short Sleeve Tie Front Floral Print Ruffle Hem Dress ($25.
99) or upgrade your outdoor style with the Ray-Ban Rb3716 sunglasses ($222).
6) Sunset Themed
Imagine the allure of pairing your evening outing with the breathtaking beauty of a sunset. Why not make the most of this opportunity to turn heads? While vibrant colors like orange can be stunning, they might be overwhelming outdoors. Instead, opt for a lovely orange dress from [here](insert link) and complement it with white strappy heels for a soft, elegant look that exudes sophistication.
7) Classy Girl
As you’re preparing for casual dates, it’s essential to dress to impress – even when the setting is relaxed. Outdoor dining, in particular, presents a unique opportunity to showcase your sense of style. To achieve a classy look that exudes confidence and sophistication, focus on warm-toned and neutral hues. A beige blouse with a sweetheart neckline (similar to the one featured at $16.99) will provide the perfect blend of elegance and charm when paired with white straight pants ($19.75).
This combination not only ensures you’ll feel comfortable but also complements the ambiance of the outdoor dining setting, making it an ideal choice for leaving a lasting impression on your date.
8) The Sun Is Not Out Today
When the sun decides to take a break on summer days, it’s time to bring out your all-black wardrobe. This season, an all-black ensemble is perfect for brunching with friends – and even more so if you’re a hijabi looking to add some color contrast to your outfit. For example, pair a black outfit with a bold-colored hijab to avoid the monotony of a single tone, while still exuding elegance and sophistication.
9) Color Splash
While embracing bold fashion choices can be intimidating, there’s no better way to make a statement than by deviating from the norm. Outdoor dining offers the perfect opportunity to break free from traditional dress codes and showcase your personal style. Start by incorporating vibrant color combinations, such as red and yellow, purple and green, or pink and blue, into your outfit. For instance, pair a sleek dark blue top with metallic green pants for a daring yet stylish look.
10) Family’s Day Out
Savoring quality time with your loved ones is what family dinners are all about. The next time you plan a get-together with your family, consider making it a themed affair by dressing in coordinating outfits. It’s a simple yet thoughtful way to add some fun and excitement to the occasion. Imagine the smiles on everyone’s faces when you show up looking stylishly matched.
For inspiration, take a cue from the latest trends and try pairing a crisp white blouse with a checkered coat and skirt for a chic, effortless look that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re heading out for a casual day or a special occasion, this outfit combination is perfect for mums who want to make a statement without trying too hard.
11) Work Dinner Outfit
When faced with the challenge of dressing up for a promotion dinner, many of us are left wondering what to wear. The desire to make a stylish yet formal impression can be daunting, especially when you’re expected to embody a certain image at work. In this case, it’s essential to strike the right balance between sophistication and elegance.
One solution is to opt for a satin jumpsuit, which can be styled in various ways – such as going sleeveless or adding a blazer for those cooler outdoor moments. By doing so, you’ll be able to exude confidence and poise without appearing too casual or over-the-top.
12) Outdoor Date Outfit
When it comes to special occasions, couples often go all out and plan a sophisticated evening out. To truly impress your partner on these nights, consider dressing to impress with a show-stopping outfit. A deep-neck dress with a dramatic leg slit is the perfect way to make an entrance. As you move through the evening, you’ll feel like you’re strutting down a catwalk. To complete the look, add some understated yet elegant jewelry that lets your beauty shine without overpowering it.
13) Hijab In The Heat
As the mercury rises during summer, many hijabi women face a dilemma: how to stay cool and comfortable while still adhering to their religious beliefs. The key is to find lightweight yet modest clothing that provides ample airflow. A flowy maxi dress with a V-neckline can be an excellent choice, as it allows for gentle breezes to caress the skin without compromising on coverage. Pair this with a warm-toned hijab that complements the outfit and you’re good to go!
For example, consider the ‘Womens Long Sleeve Casual Cocktail Flowy V-Neck Gown Maxi Dress’ at $29 or the ‘Chic Hijab Premium Jersey Head Scarf’ at $24.90 for a stylish and practical summer look.
14) Outdoor Dining In The Backyard
For families that frequently host backyard BBQs, dressing up for these gatherings has become an unwritten rule. The expectation is that guests should treat the event as they would any night out, and this means putting in a bit of effort with their attire. For those who want to excel at this type of occasion, I recommend opting for a stylish yet comfortable outfit. A classic combination that’s hard to beat is black and olive.
If you have olive pants or a matching top, pair them with a black blouse or vice versa for a chic ensemble that’s sure to turn heads at your next BBQ party.
15) Girls’ Day Out
Make a statement by incorporating an all-blue outfit into your wardrobe. This bold and eye-catching look can be achieved by pairing different blue items together, such as a midi-length denim dress, bucket hat, and light blue purse. The result is a stylish and put-together ensemble that’s perfect for a casual luncheon with friends in the countryside. For example, try pairing a pair of Women’s Casual Denim Short Dress ($36.99) with a Bucket Hat Denim ($9.
49) and Light Blue Purse Top Handle Satchel ($23). This unique combination is sure to turn heads!
16) Go Backless
It’s time to make a statement with style. The allure of backless dresses is undeniable, making them perfect for special occasions. Imagine an anniversary dinner or a summer evening out – the combination of the dress and a refreshing outdoor setting will leave you feeling sexy and confident. To complete the look, consider pulling your hair up and showcasing your bare back in all its glory.
For a comprehensive guide on how to pair the best bras with these dresses for a flawless finish, read our article.
17) Fancy Floral
As the season of renewal unfolds, the fashion world awakens to the vibrant hues and delicate patterns of floral designs. This spring, when venturing out for a delightful lunch amidst blooming flora, consider donning a stunning floral dress that harmonizes with the lush surroundings. Not only will you embody the carefree essence of spring, but also tap into the atmosphere’s warmth and vitality.
18) Beachy Dining
If you’re lucky enough to live near the beach, why not shake things up with your outdoor dining attire? After all, there’s nothing like a refreshing swim after lunch. For a stylish yet practical outfit, consider pairing a versatile beige button-down shirt that can be easily slipped on and off with an ankle-length wrap skirt that adds a fun pop of color to your look. Not only will you be perfectly dressed for the meal, but this combo will also leave you ready to dive into the water afterwards.
For more inspiration, check out our curated collection of wrap skirt outfits.
19) An All White Dress
20) Peplum Top
FAQs
Q. How should I dress for outdoor dining in winter?
Elevate your style by incorporating a classic turtle-neck sweater into your outfit, or choose long coats as a substitute when layering is necessary.
Q. What should a woman wear to a outdoor restaurant?
With flexibility in mind, the attire for this event is intentionally left open-ended, allowing attendees to choose an ensemble that not only reflects their personal style but also makes them feel confident and at ease. Whether it’s a knee-length dress, a suit, or something entirely different, the focus is on expressing oneself authentically rather than adhering to a specific dress code.
Q. Should you wear jeans to a fancy restaurant?
It’s generally not recommended to take this approach, and I would caution against it even more when it comes to blue denim. However, black may still be an acceptable option.
