Enjoying a few pints with friends at the local? A semi-casual, laid-back look is typically the way to go – but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a little fancy on the odd occasion, especially in the evening.
Whether you’re more of a relaxed dresser or like to pick something bold, we’ve got plenty of ways to take your look from day to night. Or, night to day, if that’s what the occasion calls for. So, here’s what to wear to the pub this weekend.
Pub Outfit Mistakes to Avoid
First of all, we don’t make the rules – “wear whatever you want” is what we say. And despite our keen eyes for a perfectly put-together outfit, we wouldn’t judge if you’re not so au fait with great style (we’re here to teach you, anyway).
Although, there are some general guidelines you should probably stick to. But don’t worry, all you need is a little common sense. For example, heels and a ball gown are likely too much, whilst flip flops and a beach sarong is also a no-no.
So, what actually is acceptable to wear to the pub? Here are our pub clothing tips.
Casual Pub Outfit Ideas for Men & Women
Pub Attire Essentials: Women
Deciding what to wear to the pub never seems to get any easier, does it? Instead of having a clear idea of which outfit ideas will work, our vision has been skewed by talks of “jeans and a nice top” and the ever-vague “smart casual”. So, let’s make this crystal clear, shall we?
Tweed Blazer
When you’re gearing up for a dressier event, a casual fleece doesn’t exactly fit the bill, does it? But a tweed blazer is the perfect jacket for it. Even over jeans and a polo shirt, a tweed blazer instantly makes any outfit look smarter.
Wax Jacket
Keeping it more laid-back? A wax jacket is the ultimate semi-casual outerwear piece. But not just any colour will do – brown, black, or navy are classic colours for every season (as long as you look after it well).
Quilted Gilet
A quilted gilet is the perfect option for that will-it-rain-will-it-shine weather. Keep it traditional or embrace your curves with a style that cinches in your waist. You can always loosen it when it’s time for that Sunday roast!
Checked Shirt
If you’ve really got zero clue what to wear to the pub, a checked shirt is always the way to go. And there’s a style for everyone, from classic gingham to tweed-inspired prints.
Patterned Blouse
Despite our perpetual love affair, checks aren’t for everyone, are they? Sometimes you want something with a tad more personality – like our patterned, floaty blouses. Bonus points for being so roomy that you can eat as much as you like!
Equestrian Polo Shirt
Casual trips to the pub definitely call for an equestrian polo shirt. Relaxed and comfy yet still smart thanks to the sharp collar, they’re perfect for those “I have no idea what to wear” days.
Cable Knit Jumper
With cooler weather on the horizon, cosy knitwear is perfect for transitioning from autumn to winter, isn’t it? And if we had to pick just one item to keep in our chilly weather wardrobe, it’s got to be the cable knit jumper.
Tweed Skirt
If you haven’t got a tweed skirt in your closet, what’s holding you back? It might not be the most worn item, but it is the perfect bottom half option for those smart-casual occasions, like all-you-can-eat family meals out to the pub.
Dark Wash Jeans
We know what you’re thinking – aren’t jeans a no-no for an evening at the pub? Absolutely not, but it all depends on the wash. Dark is better to keep your look somewhat smart (if that’s the look you’re going for), whereas lighter washes tend to look much more daytime appropriate.
Chelsea Boots
The perfect all-rounder boot. If there’s one item on this list we beg you to add to your clothing collection, it’s a classic pair of Chelsea boots.
Loafers
Timeless, stylish, and way better than uncomfy heels, if you’re lucky enough to have an evening at the pub free of rain, immediately slipping on your loafers is essential. This is one occasion where we do make the rules.
Pub Attire Essentials: Men
Gents’ styling is (famously) much less complicated than ladies’ styling, thanks to there being fewer components involved. But that doesn’t mean dressing for the pub is simpler. Getting your look right – whether meeting the lads or catching up with family – is important, isn’t it?
Waistcoat
You’d be a fool to think waistcoats are out of style – they’re far from it. Go for a shirt underneath and keep your bottom half laidback for that effortless cool guy look.
Wax or Quilted Jacket
Although relatively casual, you can definitely achieve a smarter look with a wax or quilted jacket. And it’s so easy – just make sure every other element of your outfit is slightly more formal.
Fleece Gilet
Feeling the cold? Add a snug layer with a fleece gilet. There’s no saying your favourite winter’s day must-have can’t look good at the pub, is there?
Checked Shirt
Any respectable country gentleman needs a checked shirt in their armoury, don’t they? The ultimate foundational piece to pair with a fleece and jeans, you can create so many smart casual looks.
Polo Shirt
Opting for a polo shirt takes all the confusion out of what to wear to the pub, doesn’t it? Although as the most casual option in our lineup, it’s definitely more suited to drinks with friends, not a sit-down meal.
Jeans
Of course, if the ladies can do it, so can you. Balance the casualness of jeans with a smarter shirt and shoes, or totally lean into the informal look.
Brogues
Going for that typical country aesthetic? Brogues step your ensemble up a notch, and no doubt simplify what to wear to the pub on fancier occasions.
Leather Boots
Be it Chelsea or market style, leather boots are a brilliant footwear choice for the pub. The polished leather finish looks smart and well-kept, yet the boot style is much less formal than a lace-up shoe.
Seasonal Pub Outfit Ideas
You’ve got the foundations – the wardrobe staples that (theoretically) make knowing what to wear to the pub a little easier. But we’re about to throw a curveball: the ever-changing great British weather.
If you thought you had your ensemble down to a T, but now you’re getting in a tizzy over baffling seasonal styling, let’s make it simple for you. Here are some no sweat pub styling ideas.
Ladies Summer Styling
As far as footwear goes, sandals are perfectly acceptable for a pub trip during the summer months. Throw on a loose-fitting sleeveless shirt or blouse and a pair of dark wash jeans to keep the look relaxed yet pub-appropriate. Or, if the sun is making a surprise visit, go for a dress, instead.
Mens Summer Styling
You can definitely “dress down” with a polo shirt, leaning into a more everyday look. And chino shorts are certainly acceptable to help you stay cool, yet they also bring a smarter, pub-appropriate vibe with their clean-cut finish. Complete the ensemble with deck shoes to master the country-casual aesthetic.
Ladies Winter Wear
Chances are, you’ll be pretty chilly if you’re not bundled up in snug knitwear. So, picking a cable knit jumper or cardigan is a smart idea. Choose a patterned shirt underneath for a fun, playful look, and stick to jeans in a light wash. Depending on the pub you’re going to, trainers might even be a suitable option to help you nail that smart casual pub attire.
Mens Winter Wear
Casual wear at the pub is always a good idea, and if you’re not immediately reaching for a checked shirt, are you a country gent at all? A staple in your casual winter wardrobe, this is the ultimate companion for a pair of moleskin trousers. Market boots make the ensemble “cold weather appropriate” whilst maintaining the relaxed look with a sturdy rubber sole.
Frequently Asked Questions About What to Wear to the Pub
Can you wear trainers to the pub?
Absolutely—just make sure they’re clean and smart, not your muddy gym pair.
What should you not wear to a pub?
Pyjamas, flip-flops, ripped joggers or anything you’d wouldn’t wear outside the house. Maintaining a put-together look is a smart idea.
Is there a dress code for pubs in the UK?
Most are pretty relaxed, allowing casual pieces like sandals and jumpers – sometimes even hats. Only a handful of upscale gastropubs expect smart-casual.
How do I dress for a casual pub night?
Try a smart pair of dark-wash jeans teamed with clean trainers or boots, and a smart shirt or cosy jumper.