Brunch style refers to fashion and decor associated with the late morning to early afternoon meal of brunch. It combines elements of breakfast and lunch and is generally more relaxed and casual than styles for other meals. Brunch emerged as a meal in England in the late 1800s and became popular in America in the 1930s. As a leisurely weekend meal, brunch style embraces comfort and laidback sophistication.
When is brunch style appropriate?
Brunch style is perfect for weekend brunches at home or at restaurants. It can also work for casual lunches and daytime gatherings like bridal showers and baby showers. The relaxed vibe of brunch style makes it ideal for vacation wear and days spent relaxing at home. While brunch attire can be dressed up a bit for going out, it maintains a casual feel.
Key elements of brunch style
Brunch style combines elements of sleepwear, loungewear, and daytime casual wear. Key features include:
Comfortable fabrics
Linen, cotton, jersey, and lightweight knits that are soft and breathable are common in brunch style. These fabrics allow you to relax and feel comfortable while still looking polished.
Casual silhouettes
Loose, relaxed fits like oversized shirts, drawstring pants, and midi dresses are hallmarks of brunch style. Flowy maxi dresses and skirts also capture the laidback vibe.
Sleepwear and lounge-inspired looks
Robes, pajama sets, and nightgowns influenced pieces lend a sleepy chic vibe. Intimate apparel like slips and camisoles work for brunch too.
Casual footwear
Slides, slippers, sneakers, and flat sandals embody the relaxed spirit. Heels are generally too formal for brunch style.
| Comfy Knits | Oversized Tees | Drawstring Pants |
| Slip Dresses | Robes & Kimonos | Lounge Sets |
Brunch Style for Women
For women, some signature brunch style looks include:
The pajama trend
Elevated pajama sets, robes, and sleep shirts capture the just-rolled-out-of-bed vibe. Crisp poplin pajama pants with silk camisoles make it work for brunch. Add statement earrings and slip-on mules.
The slip dress
Slip dresses evoke bedroom elegance but work perfectly for brunch paired with a denim jacket and strappy sandals. Go for satin, silk, or jersey in spring hues.
The nap dress
Nap dresses designed for sleeping and lounging bridge the gap between pajamas and daywear. Linen or jersey in midi or maxi lengths makes these dresses brunch-worthy. Add a crossbody bag.
The jumpsuit
Overalls, rompers, and wide leg jumpsuits embody brunch comfort. Look for soft denim, linen, jersey, or chambray. Add sneakers or sandals.
Brunch Style for Men
Relaxed brunch style for men includes:
Drawstring pants
Linen and cotton drawstring pants combine comfort and polish. Wear them with a t-shirt or breezy button down.
Camp collar shirt
The flat, open collar and roomy fit of camp collar shirts evoke a casual sophistication perfect for brunch.
Chino shorts
A step up from athletic shorts, chino shorts work for brunch paired with polos, t-shirts, or casual button-downs.
The Hawaiian shirt
The breezy, vacation spirit of a Hawaiian or camp shirt matches the relaxed brunch mood.
| Drawstring Pants | Camp Collar Shirts | Chino Shorts |
| Hawaiian Shirts | Hoodies | Slides |
Brunch Decor
Brunch decor sets a casually elegant stage for the midday meal. Style it with:
Linens
Crisp linen tablecloths and napkins add texture and a clean, relaxed aesthetic. Use linen across dining chairs too.
Floral accents
Small flower arrangements in vases or pretty floral napkins and plates add a touch of grace.
Brass accents
Brass flatware, serving pieces, and accents lend a vintage bistro vibe.
Casual tableware
Wood cutting boards, stoneware plates, and colorful glazed mugs set a casual breakfast table mood.
Fruit centerpieces
Display fresh fruits like grapes, oranges, and berries in bowls or on tiered platters for a light, springy look.
Brunch signage
Mini chalkboards or printed signs let guests know they’re welcome to the brunch buffet.
Brunch Menu Ideas
The food at a brunch should bridge breakfast and lunch. Some tasty brunch menu ideas include:
Eggs Benedict
This rich, elegant egg dish satisfies breakfast cravings. Go classic with Canadian bacon or get creative with veggies, smoked salmon, or crab cakes.
Quiche
Quiche in varieties like Lorraine with bacon or spinach and goat cheese makes a savory brunch dish. Offer individual tarts or a large pie.
Avocado toast bar
Set out artisan breads and an array of toppings like avocado, hardboiled eggs, prosciutto, roasted veggies, and sesame seeds.
Smoked salmon platter
Thinly sliced smoked salmon served with traditional garnishes like lemon wedges, capers, red onion, and cream cheese is a brunch go-to.
Salad bar
Create a DIY salad station with mixed greens, proteins, cheeses, nuts, and dressings for a healthy, fresh option.
Waffles and pancakes
The classics always satisfy! Offer with fresh fruit, whipped cream, and syrup.
Breakfast tacos and burritos
Burritos with salsa and breakfast tacos filled with eggs, cheese, and meats put a twist on breakfast.
Smoked fish dip
A smooth, creamy smoked fish dip served with crackers and crudité adds spreadable protein. Salmon and trout work well.
French toast casserole
Make it easy on yourself with an overnight French toast casserole baked the morning of brunch.
Cinnamon rolls
Warm from the oven, gooey cinnamon rolls can make anyone’s morning. Brunch is no exception.
Champagne and mimosas
Bubbly champagne cocktails like orange mimosas and bellinis give brunch its signature toast.
| Eggs Benedict | Quiche | Avocado Toast Bar |
| Smoked Salmon Platter | Salad Bar | Waffles & Pancakes |
| Breakfast Tacos & Burritos | Smoked Fish Dip | French Toast Casserole |
| Cinnamon Rolls | Champagne & Mimosas |
Conclusion
With its relaxed blend of breakfast and lunch vibes, brunch style is perfect for leisurely weekends and holiday gatherings. Flowy, breathable fabrics in prints and patterns paired with casual footwear epitomize brunch fashion. Fresh florals, fruits, and linens bring brunch panache to your tablescape. And dishes that straddle breakfast and lunch like eggs Benedict and waffles feed a fabulous brunch. With its laidback sophistication, brunch style sets the stage for an utterly enjoyable mid-morning meal.