What to Wear to a Dinner Party

From business dinners to evenings with your nearest and dearest, we've got all the outfit inspiration you need

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Woman wearing a navy mini dress with black ballet pumps, sunglasses and a black handbag.

What to wear to dinner with friends

A night with friends instantly feels more casual, but you might still want to play dress up with your favourite people. Cue the mini dress: a guaranteed hit for evening plans. Our current go-to is this cute navy drop-waist design that’s made in soft cotton with a voluminous skirt. To amp it up, add chunky earrings and ballet pumps for true Scandi-style chic.

If you're keeping things relaxed, opt for jeans and a nice top – a winner every time. We’re loving this wide-leg pair for their laid-back, comfortable fit. When it comes to picking a top, we favour something that brings extra interest to your outfit through texture or volume, like this ruched puff-sleeve style. Slip on mules and a suede jacket, and you're good to go.

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Woman wearing black trousers with a grey knitted vest, black pumps and a black tote bag.

The best smart-casual dinner outfits

Planning a smart-casual dinner outfit? Start with tailored trousers. We love these barrel-leg trousers in soft ecru or hunter green with flattering front pleats. The best bit: they have an elasticated waist, so you’ll be comfy even after several courses. Team them with a slinky cami, classic loafers and an oversized blazer for a considered look.

Alternatively, when working out what to wear to a casual dinner, try these smart jeans. They effortlessly balance comfort and style, with a flattering high-rise waist and pressed front creases. We love them teamed with a simple knitted vest and slouchy suede tote.

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Woman wearing a polka-dot bandeau dress with silver earrings and black mules.

Go glam: what to wear to a formal dinner

If you're wondering what to wear to a gala dinner, we've got you sorted. It's time to call on the most elevated occasionwear – think mid to floor-length dresses in luxe fabrics. We’re currently coveting this polka-dot maxi dress. The bandeau neckline and ruched bodice feel elevated, while the bold pattern taps into this season's must-wear trend. Just add a compact clutch and stiletto heels to complete the look.

Another favourite for formal dinner affairs is this five-star-rated black column dress. Cut with an elegant one-shoulder neckline and patterned with swirling florals, it's a true statement-making piece. Simply finish with low heels, sculptural earrings and a black clutch.

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Woman wearing a blue striped shirt with black trousers and black ballet pumps.

Everyday heroes: what to wear to a work dinner

You can always rely on sleek tailoring to take you from desk to dinner. This cotton-rich blue shirt is a foolproof choice: shaped to a flattering slim fit with a timeless pinstripe. Alternatively, you can't go wrong with a simple yet airy cotton-rich poplin white button-through shirt in a classic, regular cut.

Wear your chosen shirt with a must-have workwear staple: the classic pencil skirt. Try this black jersey style with a comfortable elasticated waist and subtle front pleats. Slip on some smart mid heels to tie your business dinner outfit together.

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Woman wearing a black jumper with cream trousers and black kitten heels.

Seasonal dinner outfits: winter to summer

As with every style choice, dinner outfits vary hugely depending on the season and weather. Summer dinner outfits often call for breezy dresses and sandals. Consider our linen swing dress in a joyful sugar pink or our tomato red linen dress for a fun pop of colour. Then reach for black slip-ons and a woven bag: guaranteed to complement any warm-weather look.

By contrast, winter dinner outfits require more layers – think snug jumpers and weatherproof jackets. Our black supersoft crew-neck jumper is a wardrobe essential and perfectly layers under most outwear: from a classic trench coat to a clean-cut blazer

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Published 7.10.2025