I love any occasion to get together with my girlfriends and family for a nice lunch. There’s just something special about taking a break in the middle of the day to enjoy each other’s company along with delicious food and drinks.
When I receive one of those coveted invitations for a luncheon, whether it’s for a baby shower, bridal celebration, birthday, or charity event, the first thing I do (after responding yes!) is start planning what I’m going to wear.
I’ve attended all different types of luncheons over the years, from backyard barbecues to five-star restaurants. The key is understanding the dress code so you can pull together the perfect outfit.
In my experience, luncheon attire can range from smart casual to semi-formal. It just depends on the venue, time of day, and reason for the occasion. I always recommend dressing up a bit, even if the invite says casual. You’ll never be overdressed when you opt for a chic dress or skirt instead of jeans.
How to Decide What to Wear
When determining what to wear to a luncheon, there are a few factors I always take into consideration:
Venue
The most important factor to keep in mind is the venue where the luncheon will take place. A relaxed seaside café or someone’s home patio calls for a more casual summery look. I love wearing floral prints or loose, flowy dresses to match the vibe.
For luncheons at upscale restaurants or event spaces, however, the atmosphere demands more formal attire like a tailored jumpsuit or sleek cocktail dress.
When in doubt about the formality, I always recommend erring on the dressier side. You can dress down an elegant outfit with minimal accessories, but it’s harder to elevate a very casual look last minute!
Type of Luncheon
Along with the venue, the reason for the luncheon also indicates how formal you should dress. A charity fundraiser or work-related luncheon requires more modest, professional attire like a knee-length sheath dress.
Baby showers and bridal celebrations, on the other hand, give you a fun excuse to wear something more feminine and whimsical.
I love to embrace the theme with details like lace overlays or ruffled sleeves for a bridal luncheon. Just be wary of wearing white unless specifically asked by the guest of honor! For a baby shower, soft pastel colors or florals set the right tone.
Time of Day
Daytime events allow for brighter colors and prints, while luncheons later in the evening call for darker, more formal options.
Season
Dress for the weather so you can be comfortable. In summer, short sleeve dresses or jumpsuits work well. In winter, opt for long sleeves and pants.
Once I know those details, I can start planning an appropriate outfit. From midi dresses to dressy separates, jumpsuits to dressy pants, there are so many chic options!
I’ve rounded up 15 of my favorite luncheon outfit ideas to provide some inspiration for your next ladies lunch. I aimed to include looks suitable for various dress codes, seasons, and venues.
Smart Casual Luncheon Outfits
These first outfits work perfectly for a smart casual dress code. They are polished enough for an upscale restaurant while still maintaining a relaxed vibe. I love these options for casual girlfriend meetups or luncheons at someone’s home.
1. Black & White Polka Dot Dress
I’m obsessed with this white dress covered in oversized black polka dots. It reminds me of Minnie Mouse with the collar and cuffs adding great texture.
I would style it with either heels or flat sandals depending on the venue. This is a great luncheon outfit idea for a casual warm weather event.
2. Printed Shirt Dress & Sandals
Shirt dresses make excellent choices for casual luncheons because they are so versatile. This shirt dress features a vibrant print that feels fun and summery.
Pair it with bright strappy sandals to complement the colors. This is an easy go-to luncheon outfit when you want something dressy but not over the top.
3. Pink Blouse & Houndstooth Skirt
I love this bold pink blouse paired with a black and white houndstooth pencil skirt. It’s the perfect smart casual outfit that still makes a statement.
Add a colorful scarf and pink flats to complete the look. This would be a great luncheon outfit for a charity event or work function.
Semi-Formal Luncheon Attire
When the invite specifies cocktail, dressy casual or semi-formal attire, that’s your cue to step up your outfit a notch. These next ideas work well for upscale luncheons like bridal showers, engagement parties or charity events.
4. Black One-Shoulder Dress & Heels
This fitted black one-shoulder mini dress is one of my go-to options when I want an outfit that’s dressy but still comfortable enough for an all-day event.
The asymmetric neckline adds visual interest. Pair it with strappy heels and a small handbag, and you’re set with a classic luncheon outfit!
5. Lace Skirt & Button Down
You can never go wrong with the classic combo of a crisp white blouse and black skirt for a luncheon. I especially love this lace skirt paired with a basic button down.
Finish it off with black pumps for timeless style. This is a great semi-formal luncheon outfit when you want to look sharp but not overdressed.
6. Sequined Skirt & Turtleneck
Make a glittering statement in this silver sequined mini skirt worn with a basic white turtleneck sweater and thigh-high boots.
It’s the perfect festive look for a winter luncheon or holiday party during the day. This eye-catching outfit will have you standing out in a glamorous way!
Spring & Summer Luncheon Dresses
When the weather turns warm, I love slipping into a breezy dress for any type of luncheon. These spring and summer outfit ideas are great for both casual and dressy daytime events when you want something bright and cheerful.
7. Floral Knee-Length Dress & White Heels
You can’t go wrong with a pretty floral dress for a spring or summer luncheon. This one features a timeless midi length and short sleeves. White pointed-toe pumps keep it looking sharp. I’d wear this cute luncheon outfit to a bridal shower or birthday lunch.
8. Pink Satin Cowl Neck Dress & Heels
Make a glamorous entrance in this vibrant pink satin dress with a cowl neck and ankle-length skirt. The sleeveless look is perfect for showing off some skin during warmer months.
Complete your outfit with shimmery heels. This beautiful ensemble makes for an elegant luncheon outfit when you want to impress.
9. White Feather Trim Dress & Heels
If you’re looking for something playful and unique for a summer luncheon, this white mini dress trimmed in feathers is sure to impress!
The mock neck provides coverage while the long sleeves keep it modest. Have fun with bright heels and handbag. This one’s for the bold ladies!
Year-Round Luncheon Outfits
I rounded up these last five looks to provide outfit inspiration that works for any luncheon, regardless of season or dress code. They are versatile options you’ll wear again and again!
10. Ribbed Knit Midi Dress & Neutral Sandals
This ribbed knit midi dress features a sleeveless silhouette perfect for transitional weather. The neutral beige shade is ultra versatile, while the colorful scarf adds a pop of personality.
Finish the look with nude sandals. This is a great go-to luncheon outfit when you want something fuss-free.
11. Floral Print Maxi Dress
You can never go wrong with a breezy floral maxi dress for any spring or summer luncheon. This one cinches at the waist before flowing into a voluminous floor-length skirt. So feminine and chic! Slip into this beauty for a casual warm weather lunch.
12. Light Blue Denim Dress
Denim is always a smart choice for casual luncheons and this light blue denim dress doesn’t disappoint!
The belted waist defines the silhouette while the sleeveless design is perfect for warm weather. I’d wear this cute throw-on-and-go outfit for a casual girlfriend lunch.
13. White Lace Mini Dress & Cowboy Boots
Put a playful spin on lace in this long sleeve white eyelet lace mini dress. The cinched waist with a circular belt adds lovely definition. Then have some fun by pairing it with white cowboy boots for a walk on the wild side! This one’s for the free spirits!
14. Black Bodycon Dress & Heels
Sometimes you just can’t go wrong with a little black dress for an evening luncheon! This form-fitting black mini is ideal for a nighttime event or cocktail party. Stay comfortable while still looking sharp.
Add a pop of interest with leopard print heels and a black clutch. A safe bet when you’re not sure what to wear!
15. Long Black Skirt & White Top
This black and white outfit combination provides effortless style with a long-sleeve white top and a long black skirt.
It manages to be both classic and trendy at the same time. An easy choice for any luncheon occasion, from casual to dressy!
Conclusion
I hope these luncheon outfit ideas have helped provide inspiration for your next ladies lunch! Whether the dress code calls for smart casual or semi-formal attire, a daytime or evening event, warm or cool weather, there are so many chic options to choose from.
The most important tips I can offer are to always consider the season, venue, time of day and reason for the occasion when deciding what to wear to a luncheon. This will ensure you select an outfit that is both appropriate and stylish!
Now I’d love to hear from you! What is your favorite type of outfit to wear to luncheons? Do you have any go-to looks? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments!
