Bottomless brunch is on the rise as they’re the social event that work year-round: they’re fun, full of food and drink, and you can dress up (or down) as you please – what’s not to love? Plus, we’ve got a handful of Bank Holidays coming up, so it’s prime time to get a few brunches booked in.
Getting all glammed up for a weekend dinner is a given, but for a mid-morning event? Feels weird heading out the door with full glam and a fancy outfit at 11am, doesn’t it?
Well, brunch is as much about the cocktails and Instagram-able pancakes as it is your outfit, and I should know – among my friendship circle, it’s our go-to catch-up choice. Cocktails, food and home by 5pm? Sign us up.
How to dress for bottomless brunch in 2023:
As a self-confessed brunch dressing pro, you’ll want to take note of these five style tips you need to know if you have a bottomless brunch booked this season:
If you want to wear heels, make sure they’re comfy (and drinking friendly)
OK, your best heels might feel like a great idea when you’re on your way out the door, but when you’re on the way home after a handful of passion fruit martinis, you might regret 4-inch stilettos. Instead, try a pair of low-heeled mules, kitten heels or sandals. They’re just as chic and versatile, but far easier to walk in.
Asos and Nakd have the best selection for the new season. I love a pair with wraparound ankle ties: they offer extra stability and added interest to a simple look.
A pair of chic trainers are always a good (and safe) bet
It’s also worth noting that when you’re at a table, your shoes are hidden away, so if you want to get away with a pair of trainers, now is the best time. They’ll add a casual element to a fancy look and your feet will be grateful if you head out shopping or for drinks afterwards.
Not every restaurant warrants spindly heels, either. If you’re just popping to your local for a low-key brunch with a friend, trainers might be the most appropriate option.
Comfort is important at bottomless brunch
When there’s bottomless food or drink involved, can you think of anything worse than rigid jeans or too-tight trouser buttons digging into your midriff? A dress will minimise that dreaded overstuffed feeling, and a wrap or shirt style are classic and stylish.
Opt for a colour block version and pair with minimal accessories. Oversized fits are big news for this season: think a smart blazer dress, a loose slip, a sexy striped shirt dress, a printed boho style dress, or a cutesy puff sleeved dress.
It’s all in the accessories
Since only your top half is on the show when you take pictures at the table, it’s a wise idea to focus the majority of your efforts here. ‘Tabletop’ dressing requires sparkly earrings, an embellished headband and a stack of gold bracelets or rings. A teeny ornament-esque bag small enough to sit on the table will be a welcome addition, too.
Go fashion-forward
You won’t regret opting for your most stylish pieces that’ll impress your friends and have you feeling chic. Think that slick oversized blazer, your colour-pop tiny bag or quirky gold hoop earrings.
If the pandemic years taught us anything style-wise, it’s not to save anything for ‘best,’ so if you’ve been thinking about wearing your embellished satin mules or your new leather blazer, a stylish bottomless brunch is the best time to take the plunge.
4 chic bottomless brunch looks to use as inspiration:
Why I love her look:
Jeans-and-a-nice top is a go-to for any smart/casual event, and bottomless brunch is no different. Opt for a silky top – Emily’s zebra shirt is perfect – and tuck into high-waisted jeans. Go for a pair with added stretch (because, bottomless!), and wear with strappy mules.
Why I love her look:
If you’re just hoping for a chill catch-up with friends at a casual restaurant, you’ll want to look cool and comfy. Molly Mae’s off-duty look is ideal inspo: swap out the teddy coat and pair with a khaki shacket for warmer days.
Why I love her look:
Cassandra nailed effortless glam by teaming her bright, silky dress with a tweed blazer for a modern look. Note that her slick black accessories pull her look together nicely and give it a smart vibe. White would look just as good, too.
Why I love her look:
If you’re going out with your friends, a fashion-forward outfit is a must. Noorie’s oversized blazer and statement boots combo is equal parts chic and modern.