How to Dress for Outdoor Dining

Nov 11

Written, Modelled, and Photographed By Rachel Erwin

Outdoor dining, thanks to the pandemic, has become the new normal for all of us. Whether it’s brunch on Newbury Street or a late night dinner date, it will probably be outside. Dressing for outdoor dining presents a whole new set of challenges. Typically, we do not have to worry about the weather when dining out. Now, layering is our new best friend — it’s essential to any outdoor dining ensemble. You are being subjected to the elements, where you could be warm one minute and blown away by wind the next. Here are a few examples of fashionable yet functional options that you can put together from your own closet.

For our first look, let’s pair a short skirt with a turtleneck. Add a jean jacket, some thigh high boots, and a blingy necklace, and you’ve got yourself a look that will turn heads. More importantly, you will be extra warm with the added jacket layer if you need it. If not, you can take it off and the outfit still stuns.

Looking for more ways to use that turtleneck? Pair it with some solid, tie-waist pants and lace-up booties. Add a jacket if needed, and you are good to go.

If you are going for a fancier look but don’t want your legs to freeze while wearing a dress, try a jumpsuit. Paired with booties, statement earrings, and your favorite outerwear, a jumpsuit is both comfortable and sophisticated. Plus, if you have to walk to this restaurant, you will avoid the inevitable chafing caused by dresses and skirts.

Do you have a bunch of cardigans lying around? If you do, great. For a more casual look, choose your favorite jeans, a bodysuit, and a longline cardigan. Add in some Converse or Vans and a ribboned scrunchie, and you will be ready for a quick bite to eat.

Pair that same cardigan with a mock neck dress and boots for a more elevated ensemble.

Now is also the best time to pull out your statement jackets. Find that elegant peacoat or funky leather jacket, and layer it over whatever you want. You will be outside, and if you are here in Boston, it will get chilly. Always bring the jacket, even if you think you won’t need it.