Summer is finally here and with it, longer evenings out. A trip to the pub – whether for afterwork drinks, a relaxed afternoon, or a night out with friends – is a staple of the British social calendar.
Finding the perfect outfit to wear to the pub can be tricky. You want to look nice but not too dressy, and the infamously unreliable British weather can make deciding what to wear even more complicated.
If you’re unsure about what to wear to the pub, fear not, we’ve got all your questions answered here!
Types of pubs
First things first. There are many different kinds of pubs you may find yourself in, and your outfit should adapt to the type of establishment you are going to.
It’s perfectly acceptable to go straight from the gym to a casual pub, like a Wetherspoons, without changing your outfit. Activewear or a combo of jeans, t-shirt and trainers won’t look out of place in a casual pub.
Traditional pubs require a bit more effort, think jeans and a nice top, while gastropubs will usually have a more polished atmosphere, and you will want your outfit to reflect that.
Understanding the occasion
Quick afterwork drink or night out with friends? What you wear to the pub depends on why you’re going to the pub for.
A relaxed weekend meet-up at the pub for a drink and a roast won’t call for the same attention to details as a night out with a big group of friends.
Dressing for the weather
Beer garden or cosy night by the fire? Pubs have different atmospheres depending on the season, and of course, your outfit choice will reflect what the weather is like outside.
Layering is always a good idea, even in summer. Bring a nice shawl or a light jacket for when the sun goes down and the temperature inevitably drops.
Accessories are your friends
The most casual of outfits can be elevated with a few key accessories. Swap your trainers for a pair of stilettos and your jeans and nice t-shirt combo is now a going out outfit.
Accessories are great when you’re unsure about what the evening may bring. Jewellery, a trendy pair of sunglasses, scarves and shawls, shoes and bags all add smart touches to a comfy outfit and won’t make you feel overdressed.
Adapting summer 2024 trends for the pub
While there are general rules to what you should – and shouldn’t – wear to the pub, there are also trends to keep in mind.
What would have been the perfect pub outfit in 1978 may not exactly cut it in 2024.
For summer 2024, it’s all about relaxed yet polished looks. Oversized jackets, trousers and loose-fitting shirts are all in. Sustainable fabrics – such as cotton, linen, or recycled materials – will keep you cool during a day in the sun.
Summer brings with it bright colours and prints, both perfect for a trip to the pub. And if you’re really keen to show your trendiness, embrace the Y2K revival, within reason.
While going to the pub can be an event, it usually calls for a more casual outfit than an upscale restaurant or a club.
The key is to feel comfortable while looking polished. Don’t be afraid to mix casual and sophisticated pieces for the perfect combo: think a graphic t-shirt paired with tailored shorts or baggy jeans with a structured top.
What to wear to the pub is an often-asked question and the answer is remarkedly simple: stay away from overly dressy and lounge-y outfits and aim for elevated casual looks you feel comfortable in that reflect your personal style.
Whether you embrace the current trends or opt for something more classic, as long as you feel comfortable both in your outfit and in the setting, your outfit is the perfect thing to wear to the pub.
