What to Wear to Brunch: 20 Outfit Ideas for 2026

Brunch season never ends—and neither does the question: what to wear to brunch? Whether you're meeting friends for avocado toast on a Sunday morning or attending an upscale garden party, nailing your brunch outfit is all about balancing comfort with style. In 2026, brunch fashion is evolving toward effortless elegance, with pieces that transition seamlessly from mimosas to afternoon strolls.

According to Who What Wear's style guide, brunch has become one of the most popular social occasions for women to showcase personal style without the formality of evening events. Fashion expert Maxine Eggenberger notes that "brunch might give you the chance to wear the more fanciful clothes, shoes and accessories in your wardrobe" while still maintaining comfort. This comprehensive guide breaks down exactly what to wear to brunch across all four seasons, different dress codes, and styling scenarios—plus the common mistakes to avoid.

Spring Brunch Outfits: Fresh & Feminine

Spring brunch calls for light layers and cheerful colors. Think floral prints, pastel palettes, and breathable fabrics that celebrate the season's renewal.

1. Floral Midi Dress + White Sneakers

The quintessential spring brunch look combines romance with practicality. A flowing midi dress in a romantic floral print paired with crisp white sneakers strikes the perfect balance between dressed-up and comfortable. Add a denim jacket for cooler mornings and you've got an outfit that works for both indoor and outdoor venues.

2. High-Waisted Jeans + Silk Camisole

Tuck a blush or cream silk camisole into high-waisted light-wash jeans for an effortlessly chic look. Complete the ensemble with nude mules and a woven crossbody bag. This outfit works beautifully for outdoor patios where you want to look polished but feel relaxed.

3. Linen Pants + Striped Top

Nothing says spring like linen. Wide-leg linen pants in white or beige paired with a classic navy striped tee create an effortlessly chic French girl aesthetic. The breathable fabric keeps you comfortable while maintaining a sophisticated silhouette.

4. Sweater Dress + Ankle Boots

For early spring when it's still crisp, a lightweight knit sweater dress in pastel tones with suede ankle boots offers warmth without sacrificing style. Choose a fitted silhouette that won't add bulk when you're sitting for extended brunch sessions.

5. Pleated Skirt + Tucked-In Blouse

A midi pleated skirt in soft pink or mint paired with a white button-down creates a polished yet playful look. Add loafers for a preppy finish that's comfortable for walking to and from your brunch destination.

Summer Brunch Outfits: Breezy & Bright

Summer brunches demand breathable fabrics and sun-ready accessories. According to Harper's Bazaar's summer style insights, linen and cotton blends are the top fabric choices for warm-weather dining in 2026.

6. Linen Shirt Dress + Espadrilles

A button-down linen shirt dress in white, chambray, or terracotta is your summer brunch MVP. Pair with espadrille wedges and oversized sunglasses for a look that's both practical and Instagram-worthy. The loose fit allows for airflow while maintaining a put-together appearance.

7. Bike Shorts + Oversized Blazer

Yes, bike shorts can work for brunch! Style black or neutral bike shorts with an oversized linen blazer, a simple tank underneath, and strappy sandals for a modern, fashion-forward look. This combination is perfect for the athleisure-loving brunch-goer who doesn't want to sacrifice style.

8. Maxi Dress + Straw Hat

A flowing maxi dress in a vibrant print or solid jewel tone paired with a wide-brim straw hat screams summer elegance. Perfect for beachside or garden brunches, this outfit protects you from the sun while keeping you cool and comfortable.

9. White Jeans + Colorful Top

Crisp white jeans are a summer staple that never goes out of style. Pair them with a bright coral, turquoise, or yellow blouse and gold accessories for a fresh, vacation-ready vibe. The clean silhouette works for both casual and upscale venues.

10. Matching Set (Co-ord)

Linen or cotton matching sets—think crop top and high-waisted shorts or skirt—offer effortless coordination without the guesswork. Choose pastel or earth tones for a sophisticated look that requires minimal styling effort.

Fall Brunch Outfits: Layered & Cozy

As noted by InStyle's autumn fashion experts, fall 2026 is all about rich textures and warm color palettes—burgundy, camel, forest green, and burnt orange dominate the seasonal brunch scene.

11. Knit Sweater + Midi Skirt

A chunky knit sweater in cream or camel tucked into a leather or suede midi skirt creates an elevated autumn look. Add knee-high boots for extra warmth and a touch of sophistication that works for both casual cafés and upscale restaurants.

12. Corduroy Pants + Turtleneck

Wide-leg corduroy pants in burgundy or olive paired with a fitted turtleneck and loafers nail the cozy-chic aesthetic. This combination offers warmth and comfort while maintaining a polished appearance perfect for Sunday brunch gatherings.

13. Denim Jacket + Floral Dress

Transition your spring floral dresses into fall by layering a denim or leather jacket over them. Swap sandals for ankle boots and add tights if needed. This approach maximizes your wardrobe while adapting to cooler temperatures.

14. Trench Coat + Jeans + Boots

A classic trench coat over skinny jeans, a simple tee, and heeled ankle boots is timeless and weather-appropriate for unpredictable fall mornings. The neutral palette works with any venue and can be dressed up or down with accessories.

15. Sweater Vest + Button-Down + Trousers

Channel preppy fall vibes with a sweater vest layered over a crisp white button-down, paired with tailored trousers and loafers. This outfit works particularly well for business-casual brunch meetings or more formal daytime gatherings.

Winter Brunch Outfits: Warm & Chic

Winter brunches require strategic layering without sacrificing style. Research from Elle's winter wardrobe study shows that versatile outerwear is key to cold-weather dressing success.

16. Cashmere Sweater + Leather Pants

A luxe cashmere sweater in neutral tones paired with faux or real leather pants and pointed-toe boots creates an upscale winter look. The combination of soft and structured pieces offers both warmth and sophistication.

17. Wool Coat + Turtleneck Dress

A fitted turtleneck sweater dress with over-the-knee boots, topped with a tailored wool coat in camel or charcoal, is elegance personified. This outfit works beautifully for upscale winter brunches where you want to make an impression.

18. Chunky Cardigan + Jeans + Boots

An oversized chunky cardigan over a simple tee, dark jeans, and combat or heeled boots offers cozy comfort without looking frumpy. Choose a cardigan in a rich winter color like burgundy or forest green for seasonal flair.

19. Blazer + Turtleneck + Wide-Leg Pants

Layer a structured blazer over a fitted turtleneck with high-waisted wide-leg pants and loafers for a sophisticated, office-to-brunch transition. This outfit maintains warmth while looking polished and professional.

20. Knit Dress + Statement Coat

A fitted knit midi dress paired with a bold statement coat (think plaid, leopard, or bright color) and ankle boots makes a memorable winter brunch entrance. The statement outerwear becomes the focal point while the simple dress underneath keeps the look balanced.

Brunch Outfit Ideas by Dress Code

Casual Brunch Outfit

The Formula: Elevated basics that look put-together but feel relaxed.

• Dark jeans + white tee + blazer + sneakers
• Jogger pants + crop sweater + slides
• Sundress + denim jacket + sandals

Styling Tips: Keep accessories minimal—one statement piece like hoop earrings or a structured bag is sufficient. Avoid looking too "gym casual"—swap sweatpants for tailored joggers or nice jeans that show you made an effort.

Upscale/Fancy Brunch Outfit

The Formula: Think "dressy casual" with refined fabrics and silhouettes.

• Silk slip dress + heeled sandals + statement jewelry
• Tailored jumpsuit + pointed-toe pumps + clutch
• Midi skirt + silk blouse + heels

Styling Tips: As celebrity stylist Micaela Erlanger notes in her Vogue interview, "Brunch is where you can have fun with texture—mix silk, suede, and leather for an elevated look that doesn't feel overdone." Focus on quality fabrics and polished accessories to elevate your ensemble.

Outdoor/Garden Brunch Outfit

The Formula: Weather-appropriate with natural textures.

• Linen dress + espadrilles + straw bag
• Wide-leg linen pants + cotton top + sandals
• Flowy maxi dress + wedges + sun hat

Styling Tips: Check the weather forecast before heading out! Bring a light cardigan or denim jacket for shade or unexpected breeze. Grass-friendly shoes are a must—skip stilettos in favor of wedges or block heels that won't sink into the ground.

5 Styling Tips for the Perfect Brunch Look

1. Prioritize Comfort Without Sacrificing Style

Remember you'll be sitting for 1-2 hours, often enjoying multiple courses and drinks. Avoid restrictive waistbands or shoes that pinch. Stretchy fabrics and elastic waists can still look chic when styled correctly with the right pieces and accessories.

2. Choose Strategic Layers

Restaurants can be cold inside with air conditioning, but patios can be warm and sunny. A removable jacket, cardigan, or scarf gives you flexibility without committing to one temperature. Lightweight layers photograph better than bulky ones and maintain your silhouette.

3. Accessorize Appropriately

Brunch is conversational—avoid noisy jewelry (bangles that clink) or oversized earrings that get caught in hair or interfere with eating. Opt for stud or small hoop earrings, delicate necklaces, and a structured bag that holds your essentials without overwhelming your outfit.

4. Consider Your Footwear Carefully

If you're walking to brunch or exploring the neighborhood afterward, skip the brand-new heels that haven't been broken in. Broken-in flats, loafers, block heels, or chic sneakers will serve you better and prevent painful blisters. Save stilettos for valet-only venues or very short walks.

5. Match the Vibe to the Venue

A beachside café calls for different energy than a downtown hotel restaurant. When in doubt, check the venue's Instagram or website to see what other guests typically wear. This research helps you avoid being over or underdressed.

What NOT to Wear to Brunch

❌ Overly Formal Attire

Leave the floor-length gowns and tuxedo blazers at home. Brunch sits comfortably between casual and dressy—not black-tie. Choose pieces that feel special but appropriate for daytime dining.

❌ Gym Clothes (Unless It's a Fitness Brunch)

Leggings and sports bras are for the gym, not the brunch table. If you're coming directly from a workout, at least swap in elevated athleisure pieces like tailored joggers or a structured hoodie.

❌ Night-Out Club Wear

Sequins, bodycon mini dresses, and sky-high platforms read evening, not midday. These pieces feel out of place in natural daylight and can make you appear like you haven't gone home from the night before.

❌ Anything Too Tight or Restrictive

You're about to eat—possibly multiple courses with bottomless mimosas! Give yourself breathing room with comfortable fits that allow for natural movement and expansion. According to fashion psychology research, 84% of women regret wearing uncomfortable outfits to social dining events.

❌ Brand-New Shoes You Haven't Broken In

Blisters and brunch don't mix. Wear shoes you've walked in before and know won't cause pain after an hour of sitting followed by walking. Break in new shoes at home first before debuting them at a social event.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear to a casual brunch with friends?

For a casual brunch, opt for dark jeans or chinos paired with a simple blouse or sweater, comfortable flats or sneakers, and minimal accessories. Think elevated basics that look put-together without being overdressed. A denim jacket or blazer can add polish without formality.

Can I wear jeans to brunch?

Absolutely! Jeans are brunch-appropriate when styled correctly. Choose dark-wash or black jeans for a more polished look, and pair them with a nice top, blazer, or statement accessories to elevate the outfit. Avoid distressed or overly casual styles for upscale venues.

What is the dress code for upscale brunch?

Upscale brunch typically means dressy casual or smart casual. Think midi dresses, tailored jumpsuits, silk blouses with trousers, or a coordinated set. Avoid overly casual items like athleisure or gym wear, and opt for refined fabrics like silk, linen, or quality cotton with polished accessories.

Should I wear heels to brunch?

Heels aren't necessary for brunch, and comfort should be your priority. If you choose to wear them, opt for block heels, wedges, or kitten heels that offer stability and comfort. Many brunch-goers prefer stylish flats, loafers, or fashion sneakers that look chic without sacrificing walkability.

What colors are best for brunch outfits?

Brunch colors should feel fresh and approachable. Spring/summer: pastels, whites, florals, and bright colors work beautifully. Fall/winter: earth tones, burgundy, camel, forest green, and neutrals are ideal. Avoid all-black unless you're adding colorful accessories or going for a specific minimalist aesthetic.

How do I transition my outfit from brunch to other activities?

Choose versatile pieces that work in multiple settings. Bring a crossbody bag, swap heels for comfortable flats, and add or remove layers as needed. Neutral colors and classic silhouettes make transitions easier than trendy or statement pieces.

Final Thoughts: Brunch Your Way

Mastering what to wear to brunch comes down to understanding the occasion, the season, and your personal style. Whether you prefer minimalist neutrals or bold prints, the key is feeling confident and comfortable enough to enjoy your meal and conversation without worrying about your outfit.

Ready to build your perfect brunch wardrobe? Discover personalized outfit recommendations at Looqs tailored to your style, body type, and upcoming events. Say goodbye to closet confusion and hello to effortless brunch style every single time.