What to wear for dinner with friends (woman): 31 ideas you’ll love
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 (as a woman):
Dinner with friends can be anywhere from a high-end nice restaurant to a local casual spot, so I’ve sorted out some dinner outfits based on if it’s a nice restaurant or a casual spot. Let’s begin:
What to wear for dinner at a nice restaurant: 19 ideas
Satin or silk dress:
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:
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.
Shop this look: Outfit
Ruched dress:
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.
Shop this look: Outfit
Dressy Jumpsuit:
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!
Shop this look: Outfit
Slacks and a button-down:
Not into wearing a dress or skirt? Try slacks and a button-down. It’s another great outfit option for dinner with friends!
Shop this look: Outfit
Midi dress:
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.
Shop this look: Outfit
Two-piece set:
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.
Shop this look: Outfit
Off-shoulder dress:
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.
Shop this look: Outfit
Pleated skirt and top:
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.
Shop this look: Outfit
Crochet dress:
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.
Shop this look: Outfit
Wrap dress:
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!
Shop this look: Outfit
Looking for dresses that hide your tummy? Check out our article on 21 types of dresses that hide your belly bulge
Dressy maxi dress:
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.
Shop this look: Outfit
Sequin jumpsuit:
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!
Shop this look: Outfit
Pencil skirt
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.
Shop this look: Outfit
Slacks and blouse:
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!
Shop this look: Outfit
Romper
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.
Shop this look: Outfit
Do you love rompers? Check out our article on 33 types of shoes to wear with rompers
Lace dress:
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!
Shop this look: Outfit
Skater dress:
Another type of dress you can wear to a nice dinner with friends is a skater dress. This type of dress is a very versatile and stylish choice and can be paired with heels to dress up.
Shop this look: Outfit
Little black dress:
The little black dress isn’t just for dates. Pull it out for dinner with friends at an upscale restaurant too!
Shop this look: Outfit
What to wear for dinner that’s casual: 12 ideas
Blazer, jeans, and heels:
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.
Shop this look: Outfit
Denim jumpsuit:
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!
Shop this look: Outfit
Leather dress:
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. When dressing for dinner, leather dresses can be paired with heels and a statement necklace for an elegant look or sneakers for a more casual vibe.
Shop this look: Outfit
Mini-skirt:
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.
Shop this look: Outfit
Dressy top and trousers
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.
Shop this look: Outfit
Leggings and top:
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.
Shop this look: Outfit
Distressed skinny jeans and top
Distressed skinny jeans are a great option for dinner, as they are both stylish and comfortable. You can pair them with any number of tops – a dressy blouse, a casual t-shirt, or something more edgy like a leather jacket.
Shop this look: Outfit
Shorts and T-shirt
Shorts and tee are appropriate for a casual night out with friends, especially to fast-food restaurants and ultra-casual dinner sports like diners and food trucks.
Shop this look: Outfit
Above-the-knee dress:
A great go-to for dinner is an above-the-knee dress. This length will keep you looking classy and appropriate for the occasion.
Shop this look: Outfit
Skirt with graphic shirt:
A great way to dress down for dinner is a skirt with a graphic shirt. Choose a skirt that is comfortable and easy to move in, like a denim skirt or an A-line skirt. Then pair it with a graphic shirt with a fun pattern or bold colors. You can also add a blazer for an extra stylish look.
Shop this look: Outfit
Flare jeans and top
Flare jeans and a top are the perfect 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
Shop this look: Outfit
Mini Dress:
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.
Shop this look: Outfit
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.
Shop this look: Accessories
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.
Shop this look: Accessories
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.
Shop this look: Accessories
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.
Shop this look: Accessories
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.
Do you love beauty tutorials? Be sure to subscribe to my Beauty YouTube channel!
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:
What is the venue, and is there a dress code?
The first step to deciding what to wear is checking what restaurant you will have dinner at and if there is a dress code (fancier restaurants tend to have a dress code!).
If the dinner is at a casual restaurant such as a diner or fast food joint, it’s typically best to stick with something comfortable and casual.
If the dinner is at a more upscale restaurant, a dressier outfit is typically more appropriate.
What will the weather be like?
Another step to deciding what to wear is checking the weather! If it’s going to be cold and rainy, then it probably wouldn’t be a good idea to wear a spring dress and sandals, as boots and clothing layers would be more appropriate.
Consider the temperature and the weather forecast when picking out an outfit.
What are the vibes?
Yes, vibes matter when it comes to picking out an outfit. The overall vibe of the dinner is important and should be taken into consideration.
For example, you may dress a bit differently for dinner with friends if they are more conservative and will have coworkers with them.
What is your personal style?
Last but not least, you should also take into account your personal style. If you prefer to wear neutrals, embrace that style and pick out an outfit that is comfortable and speaks to your personal aesthetic.
On the other hand, if you love bright colors, go ahead and experiment with clothing pieces you wouldn’t normally wear – but make sure they are still appropriate for the dinner.
What do you like? At the end of the day, it’s important to wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
Conclusion:
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!
