What to wear to dinner out
Wear one nice piece and keep the rest easy: a wrap dress or a good knit, dark trousers or jeans and closed shoes. You should feel comfortable sitting for two hours and still look like you made an effort.
Two outfits that work
Burgundy wrap dress, black jacket, ankle boots
- burgundy wrap midi dress
- black cropped jacket
- black ankle boots
- brown small bag
A wrap dress is dressed up without being stiff, and the jacket covers the cool walk to the table.
Navy polo, charcoal chinos, olive jacket
- navy fine-knit polo
- charcoal chinos
- olive jacket
- brown suede shoes
A fine-knit polo with chinos is neat and relaxed, and the suede shoes lift it above trainers.
By weather
| Hot22° and up | Light fabrics and sandals or clean shoes; a thin jacket for the evening. |
|---|---|
| Mild10° to 21° | The outfit as planned; the jacket comes off at the table. |
| ColdBelow 10° | A warm coat, closed boots with grip and a scarf you can leave at the cloakroom. |
Do and don’t
- Choose one nice piece and let the rest stay easy
- Check the restaurant style
- Wear clothes that are comfortable when seated
- Keep a light layer within reach
- Wear clothes that mark easily
- Wear tight waists after a big meal
- Choose shoes you cannot walk home in
- Bring a big bag for a small table
Check the night before
- Check the restaurant, its style and the time
- Look at the forecast for the walk
- Check for stains and creases
- Pack a card, phone and a small layer
Questions people ask
What should I wear to a restaurant dinner?
A good top or dress, dark trousers or jeans and closed shoes. Choose smarter if the restaurant has white tablecloths.
Can I wear jeans to a dinner out?
Yes, dark and plain, with a good top and nice shoes. Avoid rips and very worn pairs.
Do I need a jacket?
It helps. A light jacket covers cool entrances and gives a smarter finish.
What if I do not know the restaurant?
Check its photos or website. If still unsure, go smart casual; you can dress down by removing the jacket.
Pick Dinner out in FeinLens and see what you already own
FeinLens builds complete outfits for this occasion from photos of your own clothes, dressed for the forecast where you’ll be.
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