What to wear to lunch with friends
Wear something a little nicer than your errands outfit: a dress or a good top, easy trousers and shoes you can walk in. Keep the colours soft and the fabrics comfortable for sitting.
Two outfits that work
Blue midi dress, cream cardigan
- blue cotton midi dress
- cream cardigan
- tan flat sandals
- brown leather bag
A cotton midi dress is cool, comfortable at a table and smart enough for a nice cafe, and the cardigan covers the chill.
Linen shirt, stone chinos, suede loafers
- white linen shirt
- stone chinos
- brown suede loafers
- brown leather watch
A linen shirt with chinos reads relaxed and tidy, and the loafers look better than trainers without being formal.
By weather
| Hot22° and up | Light cotton or linen, sandals and sunglasses; choose shade if you can. |
|---|---|
| Mild10° to 21° | The outfit as planned, with a light layer for a breezy terrace. |
| ColdBelow 10° | A warm knit under a coat and closed shoes; an indoor table is fine. |
Do and don’t
- Pick one nice piece and keep the rest easy
- Choose fabrics that do not crease from sitting
- Wear shoes you can walk to the cafe in
- Carry a light layer
- Wear anything that stains easily
- Wear very tight clothes that make a meal uncomfortable
- Bring a large bag to a small table
Check the night before
- Check the venue and the forecast
- Pick one standout piece
- Make sure shoes are comfortable
- Pack a light layer and sunglasses
Questions people ask
What is a good lunch outfit for a cafe?
A dress or a good top with easy trousers, and clean shoes. It is a step above errands and a step below dinner.
Can I wear trainers to lunch?
Yes, if they are clean and in a neutral colour. Pair them with a nicer top so the look is balanced.
What should I wear for lunch on a terrace?
Light, breathable fabrics, a hat or sunglasses, and a thin layer in case the shade is cool.
What colours work well for lunch?
Soft blues, creams, olive and earth tones. They look natural in daylight and hide small stains.
Pick Lunch with friends 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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