Brunch: that magical meal that’s not quite breakfast, not quite lunch, but entirely delicious. It’s the perfect excuse to gather with friends, indulge in mimosas, and show off your style.
But let’s be real—deciding what to wear to brunch can be as challenging as choosing between sweet and savory dishes. Should you go casual? Dressy? Somewhere in between? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with a menu of cute brunch outfits that’ll satisfy your style cravings.
Whether you’re a fan of classic jeans-and-tee combos, flowy dresses, or chic separates, there’s a brunch outfit here for every taste. I’ve rounded up 15 Instagram-worthy looks that are perfect for sipping lattes, savoring avocado toast, and snapping those all-important #brunchgoals pics.
So grab your favorite brunch beverage (I’m partial to a spicy Bloody Mary myself) and explore these delectable brunch dress ideas and casual brunch outfits that’ll make you the toast of the table. Trust me, with these looks, you’ll be serving up style alongside those eggs Benedict.
Pants and Tops Combinations
When it comes to what to wear for brunch, you can never go wrong with a classic pants-and-top combo. It’s versatile, comfortable, and can be dressed up or down depending on the vibe of your brunch spot. Let’s explore some foolproof pairings that’ll have you looking effortlessly chic while you sip your latte.
1. Straight-Leg Jeans with Button Down Shirt
Nothing says “I woke up like this” quite like the timeless combination of straight-leg jeans and a crisp button-down shirt. This look is the epitome of casual brunch outfits, but with a touch of sophistication that says you’ve got your life together (even if you’re nursing a slight hangover).
Opt for a pair of high-waisted straight-leg jeans in a classic blue wash. The high waist is not only on-trend but also perfect for tucking in your shirt and creating a sleek silhouette. As for the button-down, go for a slightly oversized fit in a crisp white or pale blue for that borrowed-from-the-boys look that’s oh-so-chic.
To elevate this brunch outfit, roll up the sleeves of your shirt for a relaxed vibe, and add some delicate gold jewelry—think a dainty necklace or a stack of thin bracelets. Slip on a pair of loafers or white sneakers, and you’re ready to tackle those pancakes in style.
I always reach for this combo when I’m not sure what to wear to brunch. It’s foolproof, comfortable, and can easily transition from a casual brunch with friends to an impromptu afternoon of shopping or gallery-hopping.
2. Classic High-Waist Jeans with a Tee
For those mornings when you hit snooze one too many times but still want to look put-together, the high-waist jeans and tee combo is your best friend. This is one of those casual brunch outfits that looks effortless but still says you made an effort.
Start with a pair of high-waist jeans—skinny, straight, or even wide-leg, depending on your preference. The key is to choose a pair that hugs you in all the right places and makes you feel confident. As for the tee, a simple white crew neck is classic, but don’t be afraid to play with colors or graphic tees if that’s more your style.
To dress up this look, tuck in your tee (full tuck or French tuck, your choice) and add a belt with an interesting buckle. Layer on a blazer or a denim jacket if there’s a chill in the air. For footwear, you can go in several directions—sleek ankle boots, trendy sneakers, or even heeled sandals if you’re feeling fancy.
I love accessorizing this outfit with statement earrings or a chunky necklace to add a bit of personality. It’s the perfect canvas for showcasing your favorite jewelry pieces without looking overdone.
Skirt Ensembles
When the weather warms up and you’re wondering what to wear to brunch, skirts become the MVP of your wardrobe. They’re versatile, feminine, and perfect for those sunny patio brunches. Let’s explore some skirt-centric brunch dress ideas that’ll have you twirling from mimosas to eggs Florentine.
3. Midi Silk Skirt with Blouse
For a brunch outfit that screams elegance with a side of bacon, pair a midi silk skirt with a chic blouse. This combination is perfect for those slightly fancier brunch spots or when you want to feel a little more dressed up.
Choose a silk or satin skirt in a midi length—it’s flattering on everyone and strikes the perfect balance between casual and dressy. Go for a solid color like champagne, blush, or emerald green for maximum versatility. As for the blouse, a lightweight, flowy top in a complementary color works beautifully.
For footwear, strappy sandals or pointed-toe flats work well, depending on how dressy you want to go. A small clutch or a structured mini bag completes the look.
This outfit is effortlessly chic and perfect for those brunches that might turn into afternoon champagne sipping at a cute café.
4. Denim Skirt with T-Shirt
For a more casual take on what to wear for brunch, consider the classic combo of a denim skirt and a t-shirt. This pairing is perfect for those laid-back weekend brunches where comfort is key, but you still want to look put-together.
Start with a denim skirt—whether it’s a mini, midi, or maxi length depends on your personal style and comfort level. A-line shapes are universally flattering, but don’t be afraid to try a pencil or wrap style if that’s more your vibe. As for the t-shirt, a simple white tee is always a winner, but feel free to play with colors, graphics, or even a striped Breton top for a French-girl twist.
To elevate this casual brunch outfit, consider tucking in your tee and adding a belt. Layer on a denim jacket for a double denim look, or throw on a cardigan for a preppy touch. Sneakers keep things casual, while espadrilles or ankle boots can dress it up a notch.
This outfit is my go-to for those spontaneous brunch plans—it’s easy to throw on and always looks effortlessly cool.
5. Tube Top with Long Skirt
For those hot summer days when you’re brunching al fresco, a tube top paired with a long skirt is the perfect combination of breezy and chic. This outfit is all about balancing proportions and staying cool while looking hot.
Choose a fitted tube top in a solid color or a fun print. The key is to make sure it fits well and stays in place—no one wants a wardrobe malfunction over their eggs Benedict.
Pair it with a long, flowy skirt. Maxi skirts in lightweight fabrics like cotton or chiffon are ideal. Go for a solid color if your top is patterned, or vice versa. High-waisted styles work particularly well with tube tops, creating a flattering silhouette.
For footwear, flat sandals keep things casual, while wedges or espadrilles can dress it up. Just don’t forget your sunglasses to complete that effortlessly glamorous look.
Dress Options
When it comes to what to wear to brunch, dresses are the ultimate one-and-done solution. They’re easy, breezy, and instantly make you look put-together—even if you rolled out of bed 20 minutes ago. Let’s explore some brunch dress ideas that’ll have you looking like you’ve got your life together, even if your coffee hasn’t kicked in yet.
6. Floral Maxi Dress with Flats
Nothing says “I’m ready for a garden party… I mean, brunch” quite like a floral maxi dress. This brunch outfit is perfect for those sunny days when you want to feel a little fancy without sacrificing comfort.
Choose a maxi dress in a lightweight fabric like cotton or chiffon. Look for a floral print that speaks to you—whether it’s bold and tropical or delicate and ditsy. The beauty of a maxi dress is that it works for all body types. If you’re petite, opt for a smaller print and consider having the hem tailored to avoid tripping over excess fabric. Taller? You can rock those big, bold florals with ease.
Pair your floral maxi with simple flat sandals or espadrilles to keep the look grounded and brunch-appropriate. A denim jacket or a light cardigan can be added for cooler mornings or overzealous AC.
7. Short Flowy Dress with Flats
For those warmer days when you want to show a little leg, a short flowy dress paired with flats is the perfect cute brunch outfit. It’s feminine, flirty, and ideal for those brunches that might turn into afternoon adventures.
Look for a dress with some movement—think A-line shapes, wrap styles, or dresses with a bit of ruffle or swing. Solid colors are great, but don’t be afraid of prints like polka dots, stripes, or small florals. The key is to choose a dress that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
When it comes to flats, the world is your oyster. Ballet flats keep things classic, while pointed-toe flats add a touch of sophistication. For a more casual vibe, white sneakers or sandals work perfectly. If you’re brunching in cooler weather, ankle boots can add an edgy touch to your flowy dress.
I love accessorizing this look with some statement earrings or a stack of delicate bracelets. A small structured bag or a woven tote completes the outfit, depending on your plans post-brunch.
This is my go-to outfit when I’m not sure what the day holds after brunch. It’s versatile enough to take you from mimosas to museums, or from frittatas to farmers’ markets.
8. Breezy Blue Dress
There’s something about a breezy blue dress that just screams “summer brunch.” It’s fresh, it’s cool, and it’s reminiscent of clear skies and ocean waves—perfect for daydreaming over your avocado toast.
Opt for a dress in a light, airy fabric like cotton or linen. The shade of blue is up to you—from pale sky blue to dusty blue, there’s a hue for everyone.
The beauty of a blue dress is its versatility. Dress it up with wedge espadrilles and statement earrings, or keep it casual with flat sandals and a denim jacket. A woven bag adds a touch of texture and keeps the summery vibe going strong.
9. Eyelet Dress
For a brunch outfit that’s equal parts sweet and stylish, consider an eyelet dress. Choose an eyelet dress in white for a classic look, or go for pastel shades like pale pink or mint for a softer vibe. The length can vary—mini dresses show off your clogs, while midi lengths create a more romantic silhouette. Look for details like puff sleeves or a tiered skirt to amp up the feminine factor.
To style this brunch outfit, consider adding a belt to cinch in your waist if your dress doesn’t already have one. A small crossbody bag in a natural material like rattan or leather complements the vintage vibe. Keep jewelry minimal—maybe just a pair of hoop earrings or a delicate necklace.
It’s perfect for those lazy Sunday mornings when you want to look put-together without trying too hard.
10. Casual Midi Dress with Baseball Cap
For those mornings when you’re running late but still want to look cute for brunch, a casual midi dress paired with a baseball cap is your secret weapon. This brunch outfit is the epitome of effortless cool in the best possible way.
Choose a midi dress in a comfortable, breathable fabric like jersey or cotton. T-shirt dresses are perfect for this look, but don’t be afraid to go for something with a bit more structure if that’s your style. Solid colors work well, but stripes or subtle patterns can add interest.
Now, the baseball cap is the key to making this look feel intentional rather than like you just rolled out of bed. Choose a cap in a neutral color like black, white, or navy. If you’re feeling bold, a cap with a fun slogan or your favorite team’s logo can add personality to your brunch outfit.
Pair this look with clean white sneakers or comfortable sandals. A denim jacket tied around your waist adds an extra layer of casual cool and comes in handy if the AC is blasting in your brunch spot.
Shorts Outfits
When the temperature rises and you’re pondering what to wear to brunch, shorts outfits come to the rescue. They’re the perfect blend of casual and chic, ideal for those sunny patio brunches where you want to show a little leg without sacrificing style. Let’s explore some shorts-centric brunch outfit ideas that’ll keep you cool while looking hot.
11. Wide Leg Tailored Shorts
When it comes to cute brunch outfits, wide leg tailored shorts are a game-changer. They offer the perfect balance of sophistication and casual charm, making them ideal for what to wear to brunch when you want to look polished but not overdressed.
Opt for high-waisted, wide-leg shorts in a neutral color like beige, navy, or black. The tailored look elevates these shorts from casual to chic, making them perfect for a stylish brunch ensemble. Pair them with a tucked-in blouse or a fitted crop top to balance the volume of the shorts.
To complete this brunch outfit, add some strappy sandals or espadrille wedges for a touch of height. A structured handbag and some delicate gold jewelry will tie the look together. This outfit is perfect for those upscale brunch spots where you want to make a fashion statement while sipping your mimosa.
12. Matching Gingham Set with Cowboy Boots
Consider a matching gingham set paired with cowboy boots for a brunch outfit that’s equal parts sweet and sassy. This unexpected combination creates one of those cute brunch outfits that’s sure to turn heads as you walk into your favorite brunch spot.
While black and white gingham is timeless, don’t be afraid to go for colored gingham like red, blue, or even pastel shades.
Accessorize with a wide-brimmed hat for extra sun protection (and style points) and a small crossbody bag. This outfit is ideal for those country-chic brunch spots or when you’re brunching before heading to a music festival.
I love how this outfit combines different style elements to create something truly unique.
Sets and Jumpsuits
For an effortlessly stylish brunch look, sets and jumpsuits are your go-to choices. These outfits provide a polished appearance with minimal effort, making them perfect for those mornings when you want to look fabulous without the fuss.
13. Light Knit Matching Set
When you’re deciding what to wear for brunch on a slightly cooler day, a light knit matching set is your best friend. This outfit option combines comfort and style, making it perfect for those long, leisurely brunches where you want to look put-together without sacrificing comfort.
14. Statement-Making Jumpsuit
If you’re looking for cute brunch outfits that make a bold statement, look no further than a chic jumpsuit. This one-piece wonder is the ultimate throw-on-and-go option when you’re deciding what to wear to brunch, offering maximum style with minimal effort.
Choose a jumpsuit in an eye-catching print or a bold solid color. Floral prints are perfect for spring and summer brunches, while jewel tones work well for cooler months. Look for interesting details like wide-leg pants, a wrap-style top, or a belted waist to add visual interest.
For footwear, wedges or block heels complement the wide-leg style, while flat sandals keep things casual for a more laid-back brunch vibe.
Layered Looks
When it comes to what to wear to brunch, layering is your secret weapon. It not only adds depth and interest to your outfit but also prepares you for unpredictable weather or overzealous air conditioning. Let’s explore a layered look that’s perfect for those in-between days when you’re not quite sure what the weather (or the brunch spot) will bring.
15. Short and Blazer Combo with Strappy Sandals
For a brunch outfit that seamlessly blends casual and polished, try pairing shorts with a blazer. This combination is perfect for those who want to look put-together without being overly formal – ideal for what to wear for brunch at a trendy spot.
Start with a pair of tailored shorts in a neutral color like black, navy, or beige. High-waisted styles work particularly well for this look. Pair them with a simple tank top or a silk camisole for a touch of elegance.
Now, here’s where the magic happens – add a slightly oversized blazer. This could be in a matching color for a monochromatic look or try a contrasting hue for more visual interest.
Complete the look with some strappy sandals. Heeled sandals will dress up the outfit, while flat sandals keep things more casual. Add some delicate jewelry and a structured handbag to tie everything together.
I love this outfit for those brunch dates where I’m not quite sure of the dress code. The blazer adds a touch of sophistication, but the shorts keep things from feeling too stuffy.