One of life's simple pleasures is clocking off at 5pm on a Friday or leaving a Sunday brunch and making a beeline for the pub to unwind and catch up with friends. And with the bank holiday weekend finally here, the pleasure is only going to increase. As pubs and pub gardens become the focal point of socialising this weekend, another priority climbs up the list: figuring out what to wear to the pub.
Decoding appropriate pub attire can be tricky. While you want to look effortless and somewhat casual—pub attire is typically more relaxed than bars or clubs, so there's no call for a LBD and stilettos here—as the hub of British socialising, this is also a place that manages to become a bit of a street style fashion show.
The key, I think, is to focus on the staples. Jeans, long skirts and relaxed dresses will all naturally fit into the setting, but you can make them your own with a few clever styling tricks and chic accessories. You want to be true to your personal taste, so if you're more into tailored sets than baggy jeans, there's no need to compromise on your aesthetic. Whatever your personal style, I think I've found a mix of pub-ready outfits that will have you counting down the hours till the next pint.
What to Wear to the Pub: 7 Looks to Try This Bank Holiday Weekend
1. Silk Shirt + Blue Jeans + Fisherman Sandals
Style Notes: Put your best foot forward with one of this season's top trending shoe styles—the fisherman sandal. Lizzy's outfit is a brilliant example of how mixing textures can create a understatedly elevated look that is relaxed enough for the pub, while still earning you serious fashion points.
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A relaxed silk shirt is the perfect weekend piece.
Jeans and a relaxed shirt is an easy yet super-stylish autumnal combo.
The sandal that every fashion lover is lusting after this season.
2. Light Knit Dress + Suede Tote + Sandals
Style Notes: For days when the sun is out but there's a risk of a chilly breeze, this is the ideal outfit. A light knit dress looks effortless but super sleek, and sandals keep it in the transitional season mood. Just don't let anyone spill a pint on your suede bag...
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Perfect for cosying up with a pint, but lightweight enough to be comfortable in the sun.
You could take this from the office straight to meet your friends.
St Agni always deliver excellent minimalist sandals.
You really don't have to break the bank to get a great pair of sunglasses.
3. Wide-Leg Jeans + T-Shirt + Trench Coat
Style Notes: Jeans and a t-shirt has to be the simplest of simple go-to pub outfits. But you can give it a fresh, on-trend spin by opting for one of 2024's most popular denim styles: the wide-leg silhouette. Finish off with a pointed-toe shoe and a billowing trench coat and suddenly you'll look like you put much more time into planning your look.
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The t-shirt that so many of our editors swear by.
Baggy jeans are the comfortable and fashionable jean to love next season.
I love that you can wear this open or cinch the waist with the belt.
While you could style this look with trainers, pointed-toe pumps give the whole thing a cool edge.
Because we are grown-ups, after all.
4. Maxi Dress + Colourful Bag + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: A white maxi dress is a year-round staple, and flats are a great way to dress it down for casual pub wear. Plus, the jolt of colour adds a fun touch.
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A white dress is a long-lasting basic you'll keep forever.
I predict you'll see a lot of your favourite influencers in these popular Ganni flats again this season.
Red is the colour to embrace in 2024.
5. Blue Shirt + Denim Shorts
Style Notes: Take on the casual chic trend with denim shorts this season, perfectly exemplified by Anouk's ensemble. The relaxed fit of the shorts pairs seamlessly with a crisp button-down shirt, creating a balanced and easy no-fuss look. For a different take, swap the shirt for a lightweight blouse or a simple tank top.
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You could also wear with this jeans and trainers.
You can't go wrong with a pair of jean shorts from Agolde.
These slingbacks are sure to get the conversation started at the pub.
6. Light Jersey + Jeans + Trainers
Style Notes: We couldn't do a pub outfit roundup without a simple jeans and trainers look could we? A jersey keeps things casual and comfy, while a blazer offers that extra little bit of polish. Finish off the outfit with a cap and sunglasses so you're prepared for every single weather eventuality.
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The perfect amount of slouch.
Arket jeans are some of my favourite on the high street.
If you haven't yet invested in a navy blazer, consider this your sign.
Sambas are still the trainer to know about in 2024.
This year, fashion people are opting for plain caps as opposed to preppy logo styles.
7: Dungarees + White Trainers
Style Notes: White dungarees are a surprising but cool choice for a pub outing, combining comfort with style. Paired with classic white trainers and a simple tank, this look is perfect for whatever the great British weather might throw at us. For a more evening-ready vibe, swap the tee for a fitted blouse and add some statement jewellery.
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It's giving model off-duty vibes and I am so here for it.
I own this tank in a multitude of colours at this point—it's just so good!
Light trainers can be a rogue choice when you live in a city that rains 98% of the year, but you can't deny the cool factor they bring to any outfit.
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