What to Wear to Brunch in 2026: The Complete Style Guide
Brunch isn't just a meal—it's a lifestyle. Whether you're sipping mimosas on a rooftop terrace, enjoying avocado toast at a garden café, or indulging in a fancy hotel spread, what you wear matters. The best brunch outfits strike that perfect balance between polished and relaxed, Instagram-worthy yet comfortable enough for that second (or third) round of pancakes.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about brunch dressing in 2026, from fail-proof outfit formulas to venue-specific recommendations.
Why Brunch Outfits Deserve Special Attention
Unlike dinner or work events, brunch occupies a unique style space. It's daytime, so you want to look fresh and approachable. It's social, so you want to be photo-ready. And it often involves lingering for hours, so comfort is non-negotiable.
"Brunch dressing is all about effortless polish," says celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe. "You want to look like you put thought into your outfit without looking overdone. It's the art of looking casually chic."
The key is building versatile outfits that can transition from morning coffee to afternoon strolls without missing a beat.
Brunch Outfit Formulas That Always Work
Formula 1: Layers of Linen
The Look: Wide-leg linen trousers + knit tank + slouchy linen shirt
Why It Works: This combination delivers smart-casual sophistication while being incredibly comfortable. The elasticated waistband on linen trousers is your secret weapon for indulgent meals.
Best For: Garden brunches, casual cafés, daytime patios
Formula 2: Pretty Dress + Flat Sandals
The Look: Flowy midi or mini dress + tan leather sandals + small crossbody bag
Why It Works: Dresses are effortless one-pieces that look put-together instantly. Flat sandals keep it grounded and walkable.
Best For: Hotel brunches, upscale restaurants, special occasions
Formula 3: Nice Top + Denim Shorts
The Look: Statement blouse or camisole + high-rise denim shorts + strappy sandals
Why It Works: This formula updates the classic "jeans and a nice top" for warm weather. It's perfect for those not-too-dressy-but-definitely-cute vibes.
Best For: Casual spots, bottomless brunch, day-to-drinks transitions
Formula 4: White Shirt + Wide-Leg Jeans
The Look: Crisp white button-down + wide-leg jeans + elegant tote bag
Why It Works: Timeless and universally flattering, this combination works for virtually any brunch setting. Just tuck that napkin into your collar for protection!
Best For: Business brunches, meeting the in-laws, anywhere you want to look polished
Formula 5: Knitted Dress + Minimal Accessories
The Look: Body-hugging knit midi + flip flops or slides + simple jewelry
Why It Works: Feels like wearing loungewear while looking completely elevated. The stretchy fabric accommodates post-brunch fullness gracefully.
Best For: Casual outings, beach-adjacent spots, relaxed weekends
Dressing for Different Brunch Venues
Rooftop Brunch
Vibe: Chic, trendy, Instagram-ready
What to Wear: Think elevated casual—midi skirts with silk camis, wide-leg trousers with crop tops, or flowing dresses with heeled sandals. Rooftops often have dress codes, so err on the dressier side. Don't forget sunglasses; you'll be photographed.
Expert Tip: "Rooftop venues are all about that golden hour glow," notes fashion editor Emma Spedding. "Choose fabrics that move beautifully and colors that photograph well—soft pinks, whites, and earth tones are always flattering."
Garden Brunch
Vibe: Romantic, relaxed, nature-inspired
What to Wear: Embrace florals, soft pastels, and flowing silhouettes. A tea dress with a cardigan, linen separates, or a printed maxi are perfect choices. Flat sandals or wedges work best on grass.
Pro Tip: Skip the stilettos—they'll sink into soft ground.
Hotel Brunch
Vibe: Sophisticated, polished, occasionally dressy
What to Wear: This is your chance to dress up. Tailored trousers with a blazer, an elegant midi dress, or a chic co-ord set all work beautifully. Hotels appreciate when guests make an effort.
Key Piece: A structured bag elevates any hotel brunch look instantly.
Casual Café Brunch
Vibe: Laid-back, neighborhood, come-as-you-are
What to Wear: Your most stylish comfortable pieces—bike shorts with an oversized shirt, clean sneakers with a sundress, or your favorite jeans with a pretty top. The goal is looking effortlessly put-together.
Freedom Zone: This is where you can wear your leather flip-flops without judgment.
Seasonal Brunch Style: Year-Round Guide
Spring Brunch
Key Pieces: Lightweight blazers, midi dresses, ballet flats
Colors: Pastels, soft greens, lavender, blush pink
Fabric Focus: Light knits, cotton, lightweight denim
Weather Prep: Layer with a light jacket—spring weather is unpredictable
Summer Brunch
Key Pieces: Linen everything, breezy dresses, raffia accessories
Colors: White, cream, bold prints, tropical hues
Fabric Focus: Linen, cotton, breathable synthetics
Style Note: Less is more when it's hot—simple silhouettes in quality fabrics always win
Fall Brunch
Key Pieces: Oversized sweaters, leather jackets, ankle boots
Colors: Burgundy, camel, olive, rust
Fabric Focus: Light wool, suede, denim
Transition Tip: Midi dresses with tall boots make the summer-to-fall switch seamless
Winter Brunch
Key Pieces: Chunky knit dresses, wool trousers, statement coats
Colors: Deep jewel tones, cream, black
Fabric Focus: Wool blends, cashmere, velvet for special occasions
Warmth Hack: Indoor brunches mean you can wear less underneath a stunning coat
Boozy Brunch vs. Fancy Brunch: Style Strategies
The Boozy Brunch Outfit
Setting: Bottomless mimosas, lively atmosphere, extended hours
Priority: Comfort meets cute
Best Choices:
- Stretchy fabrics (you'll be sitting for hours)
- Comfortable footwear (dancing to the DJ is possible)
- Dark colors on bottom (spill protection)
- Crossbody bag (hands-free for toasting)
Avoid: Tight waistbands, white jeans, anything you can't walk home in
The Fancy Brunch Outfit
Setting: Special occasions, upscale venues, celebratory events
Priority: Polished and photo-perfect
Best Choices:
- Elevated fabrics (silk, structured cotton, quality knits)
- Statement jewelry
- Heeled sandals or elegant flats
- A clutch or structured handbag
Embrace: Your best dress, that new blazer, investment pieces
What NOT to Wear to Brunch: Style Mistakes to Avoid
The Don'ts:
- Athleisure (unless the venue truly calls for it) — Save the leggings for after brunch
- Overly revealing outfits — Brunch is typically a daytime, relaxed affair
- Brand-new uncomfortable shoes — You might be walking or standing; break them in first
- White jeans without confidence — Spills happen at brunch. Proceed with caution
- Heavy evening makeup — Keep it fresh and glowy for daytime
- Overcomplicated outfits — You shouldn't need 20 minutes to use the restroom
- Anything you'd regret on Instagram — Brunch is social media prime time
The Exceptions:
Some casual brunch spots genuinely embrace the athleisure-to-avocado-toast pipeline. Know your venue.
Accessorizing Your Brunch Look
Bags
Best Bet: Crossbody bags or small shoulder bags keep hands free
Upgrade: A straw tote for summer garden brunches adds instant charm
Skip: Oversized bags that don't fit on tiny café chairs
Jewelry
Philosophy: Choose one statement piece or keep everything delicate
Summer: Minimal gold pieces, shell earrings, stacking rings
Winter: Chunky chains, pearl earrings, layered necklaces
Always: Something that sparks conversation
Sunglasses
Essential: Even if indoor, you'll likely end up outside
Style Impact: The right sunglasses elevate any outfit immediately
Investment Piece: Quality frames are worth it for how often they're worn
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear jeans to brunch?
Absolutely! Jeans are one of the most versatile brunch pieces. Opt for wide-leg or straight styles for a more polished look. Pair with a nice blouse, statement earrings, and quality shoes to dress them up.
Is there a brunch dress code?
Generally, no—but it depends on the venue. Casual cafés welcome relaxed outfits, while hotel restaurants and rooftop venues often expect smart-casual attire. When in doubt, check the restaurant's Instagram or call ahead.
What shoes are best for brunch?
Flat sandals, low heeled sandals, ballet flats, and clean white sneakers are all excellent choices. Choose based on how much walking you'll do and whether you'll be on grass or pavement.
Should I bring a jacket?
Yes, especially for outdoor venues. Air conditioning in restaurants can run cold, and weather changes throughout the day. A light blazer or cardigan is always smart.
Can I wear a maxi dress to brunch?
Maxi dresses are perfect for brunch, especially in summer. They're comfortable, elegant, and photograph beautifully. Choose breathable fabrics and pair with flat sandals.
What's appropriate for a first date brunch?
Choose an outfit that feels authentically you but slightly elevated. A pretty dress, or nice jeans with a special top, strikes the right balance. Avoid anything too revealing or uncomfortable—you want to focus on conversation, not adjusting your outfit.
How casual is "casual brunch"?
Clean and put-together casual. Think your nicest jeans, a fresh top, and comfortable shoes. Avoid anything you'd sleep in or work out in.
The Final Word on Brunch Style
The secret to perfect brunch dressing isn't following rigid rules—it's understanding the vibe of your venue and dressing in a way that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Whether you're reaching for linen trousers or a statement dress, the best brunch outfit is one you feel great in.
Remember: brunch is meant to be enjoyed. Choose pieces that allow you to linger over coffee, indulge in that extra pastry, and capture those golden-hour photos without worrying about wardrobe malfunctions.
Now go forth and brunch beautifully.