I’m over 40. Here are 39 chic outfit ideas when you’re going to dinner with friends
Have you been trying to decide what to wear for dinner with friends? I get it! You want to look nice and stylish but still comfortable. Seriously, just thinking about it can get overwhelming at times, right?!
Well, no worries, because in today’s article, I’m sharing different outfit ideas for dinner with friends! Let’s begin!
What to wear for dinner with friends over 40
Satin or silk dress:
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If you’re looking for something dressier, a satin or silk dress is the perfect option. It’s dressy but still comfortable and perfect for dinner with friends at an upscale restaurant.
Midi skirt and blazer:
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A midi skirt is a great way to dress up for dinner at a nice restaurant. It can be dressed up with some heels, or down with some sandals.
Ruched dress:
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For a classic and stylish look, try wearing a ruched dress to dinner at a nice restaurant. Ruching adds texture and visual interest, making for an elegant yet timeless look.
Dressy Jumpsuit:
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If you’re looking for something chic and playful, a dressy jumpsuit is a perfect option. Choose a sleek silhouette with simple lines and minimal accessories to keep the look polished. Go for neutral colors like black, gray, and navy, or add a bit of boldness with bright hues like yellow, red, or pink!
Jeans and a button-down:
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Not into wearing a dress or skirt? Try Jeans and a button-down. It’s another great outfit option for dinner with friends!
Midi dress:
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A midi dress is the perfect choice for dinner at a nice restaurant. It’s always classy and elegant, yet still comfortable. Choose a midi that is made of light fabric, like silk or chiffon, and pick a color that suits you best.
Two-piece set:
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A two-piece set such as a skirt and matching top or pants and matching blouse are great outfit options for dinner with friends. This look is sophisticated and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Pair a two-piece set with strappy sandals if you want a more toned-down look or heels for ultimate elegance.
Off-shoulder dress:
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An off-shoulder dress is an excellent choice for a romantic dinner at a nice restaurant. The style of the dress is both flirty and glamorous, giving off an air of sophistication. Choose a dress that is either fitted or slightly loose, depending on your preference and pair it with statement jewelry.
Pleated skirt and top:
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A skirt with a pleat is an ideal choice for wearing to a nice restaurant. The pleats add texture while still maintaining a smart and sophisticated look. Choose a skirt in a neutral shade, such as black or navy, and match it with a top that complements the color.
Denim midi dress
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Structured denim gives you a put-together feel while remaining comfortable and wearable. It’s ideal for dinners that lean stylish but relaxed. You can also dress it up with heels or more casual with sandals or flats.
Off The Shoulder Draped Bustier Top and trousers
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This combination feels modern and powerful while still feminine. The structured top makes the outfit feel intentional and elevated.
Cape dress
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Cape dresses feel dramatic in the best way. The silhouette alone makes you look powerful, confident, and ready to have dinner with friends.
Crochet dress:
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A crochet dress is a perfect choice for an evening out at a nice restaurant. It’s stylish, comfortable, and easy to wear. Choose one in a light, airy fabric for a feminine look. Add a pair of heels and some delicate jewelry to complete the ensemble.
Wrap dress:
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A wrap dress is a timeless and classic look for dinner at a nice restaurant. It is versatile and can be dressed up for a nice restaurant. Wrap dresses are not only comfortable, but they also give a slimming effect!
Looking for dresses that hide your tummy? Check out our article on 21 types of dresses that hide your belly bulge
Dressy maxi dress:
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If you want to look chic and glamorous, a maxi dress is a great option. Make sure to choose something with an elegant cut and fabric, such as a silk, satin, or light fabric blend to make sure that you look dressy enough for the restaurant.
Sequin jumpsuit:
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A sequin jumpsuit is the perfect outfit for a night out at a nice restaurant. The sparkle of the sequins adds an exciting and glamorous feel to the outfit without being overly dressy. A sequin jumpsuit can be dressed up with simple jewelry and a pair of strappy heels or pumps!
Pencil skirt & Button-up
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A pencil skirt and blouse is a great outfits to wear for dinner with friends. It’s classic, elegant, and super flattering on any figure. Pencil skirts come in many different colors, fabrics, and textures, so you’re sure to find a pencil skirt that matches your taste.
Slacks and blouse:
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If you’re looking for something slightly dressier than jeans, consider wearing a pair of slacks and a nice blouse. Choose slacks in neutral colors such as black, white, and navy that pair nicely with a variety of blouses, or for a more bold look, opt for slacks in bright colors like pink or red!
Romper
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Okay, you got me. A romper is usually better for a dinner that is semi-casual as opposed to a super high-scale dinner restaurant. However, a romper can be a great option for dinner night when paired with stilettos or pumps and a handbag.
Do you love rompers? Check out our article on 33 types of shoes to wear with rompers
Lace dress:
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A feminine and classic choice, a lace dress can work for any sort of occasion. For dinner at a nice restaurant, opt for something floor-length or midi-length. Pick a color that flatters your skin tone, and pair it with your favorite heels, earrings, and clutch. You’ll be sure to make a chic statement with this look!
Fit and flare dress:
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Another type of dress you can wear to a nice dinner with friends is an fit and flare. This type of dress is a very versatile and stylish choice and can be paired with heels to dress up.
Little black dress:
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The little black dress isn’t just for dates. Pull it out for dinner with friends at an upscale restaurant too!
Blazer, jeans, and heels:
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This combination is perfect for a night out at a nice restaurant. A blazer and jeans create an effortless but pulled-together look, while heels add a touch of glamour and sophistication.
Denim jumpsuit:
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This is one of the best choices for a casual yet stylish look. Denim jumpsuits are comfortable and easy to dress up or down based on the shoes and accessories you choose!
Leather dress:
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A leather dress is an excellent option for a dinner ensemble. Leather dresses are timeless, versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Mini-skirt and blouse
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Mini-skirts are a perfect choice for a casual dinner and can be paired with a blouse, blazer, or graphic tee for the ultimate casual chic look.
Leather leggings and top:
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Leggings are a great option for dinner. They’re comfortable, stylish, and versatile. You can pair them with a nice top or blouse for a more dressed-up look. If you’re going somewhere casual, a comfortable t-shirt or tank top will do.
Monochromatic look
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Wearing one color head-to-toe instantly looks elevated and sophisticated. It creates visual harmony that feels chic and confident.
Tunic top and ankle jeans
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A cute printed tunic top and jeans are a great and casual dinner look that’s comfy and still cute
Dressy top and trousers
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A dressy blouse paired with denim trousers are a great outfit option for a casual dinner with friends. Choose a blouse in a flattering fit with feminine details such as ruffles, lace or embroidery to make it stand out.
Above-the-knee dress:
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A great go-to for dinner is an above-the-knee dress. This length will keep you looking classy and appropriate for the occasion.
Blazer with dress
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A great way to dress up for dinner is a midi fitted skirt with a blazer.
Sequin midi skirt and button-up in the same color family
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Keeping sparkle within one color palette feels refined and intentional. The coordination makes the outfit look elevated rather than busy.
Tie-waist top and jeans
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Jeans and a tie-waist top are the perfect flattering choice for dinner. Not too casual, yet still comfortable, this look is sure to make you stand out from the crowd. Opt for a solid, dark-colored pair of jeans to keep it simple and classic
Mini Dress:
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A mini dress is a great option for dinner. It can be dressed up with heels and accessories or kept casual with flat shoes and minimal jewelry. Either way, you’ll look super cute with a side of sexiness when you rock a mini-dress for dinner with friends.
Sequin blazer and denim jeans
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This mix of casual and glam feels effortlessly stylish. The blazer does all the celebrating while the denim keeps things relaxed and wearable.
Mermaid dress
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A mermaid silhouette feels glamorous and sculpted, making it ideal for luxe dinners. It creates a striking shape that feels memorable and elevated.
Faux-feather dress
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Feather details add texture and playful luxury. It’s a statement choice that feels festive without needing anything extra.
Satin jumpsuit:
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Accessories to wear for dinner with friends
Accessories can make or break an outfit – so it’s important to choose wisely. Here are some tips when it comes to accessories to wear for dinner out:
Earrings:
Whether you opt for big and bold statement pieces or something more subtle, earrings can be a great way to add a bit of sparkle to your look. Go for studs if you want something low-key or hoops if you’re feeling daring. If your outfit is patterned, keep the jewelry simple – too many patterns will look cluttered. If you’re wearing a solid-colored dress, adding some colorful earrings can be a great way to bring attention to your face.
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Bracelets:
A bracelet is a great accessory for dinner with friends – it can help make an otherwise plain outfit look more finished. Choose something that matches the vibe of your ensemble – if you’re wearing a casual t-shirt and jeans, opt for something fun and funky. If you’ve chosen an evening dress, a delicate and dainty bracelet is the perfect accompaniment.
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Handbag:
The perfect handbag can take an outfit from okay to oh-so-chic. Choose a clutch for formal occasions or something small and structured for day-to-day dinners. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a fun printed bag or an unexpected shape.
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Necklace:
The right necklace can add a touch of glitz and glamour to your look. If you’re wearing a dress with a low neckline, a choker or a statement necklace will draw attention upwards. If you’re wearing something simpler, opt for a long pendant or layered style.
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Hair and makeup for dinner with friends
Pay attention to your hair and makeup, as it’s an important part of your overall look too! When dressing for dinner with friends, it is important to consider both your hair and makeup.
For hair, consider styling it in an updo or wearing it down with curls or waves. For makeup, look for light and natural colors that will bring out your features without overwhelming the rest of your look.
How to decide what to wear for dinner with friends
Know Your ABCs
When you’re getting dressed, think about your ABCs: What do you want to Accentuate? What do you want to bring Balance to? And what do you want to Camouflage? Once you know those three things, choosing clothes becomes a whole lot easier.
My Dress for Your Body Type Kit takes it a step further and shows you the most flattering cuts, silhouettes, necklines, and clothing styles for your specific body shape without all the confusing fashion rules.
Know Your Best Colors
Knowing your most flattering colors is seriously one of the easiest cheat codes for looking more put together. The right colors can brighten your complexion, make your features pop, and make an outfit feel so much better without you doing anything extra.
My Discover Your Colors Kit helps you uncover your most flattering and least flattering colors in less than 15 minutes, so you can shop and get dressed with way more confidence.
Answer The Outfit Event Questions
Unsure what to wear to a special event or fun occasion? And yes, lunch with your girlfriends absolutely counts as an occasion! In the video below, I share a few simple questions you can ask yourself anytime you’re standing in your closet thinking, “Okay…what am I supposed to wear?” These questions will help you narrow down your options and put together an outfit that actually makes sense for where you’re going and how you want to feel.
If you love beauty, fashion and lifestyle tips then be sure to check our my YouTube channel @BreonnaQueen for weekly tidbits!
Final words
When it comes to what to wear for dinner with friends, the options are limitless! Whether you choose something fancy and head-turning or a piece that’s casual and comfy, just be sure it reflects your own sense of style and personality!
I’ve shared with you some different outfit ideas for the occasion, and now I’m curious; which outfit is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!
