London is many cities in one: it’s tradition and trendiness, luxury and spontaneity, etiquette and rebellion. The same goes for its style. When dining out in London, getting dressed isn’t just a matter of aesthetics or comfort—it’s often a reflection of where you’re going, the weather, the neighborhood… even your mood that day.
In this article, I’ll tell you exactly what people wear to go out for dinner in London. From The Ritz to your local pub, you’ll know what to wear to feel comfortable, stylish, and never out of place.
Is There a Dress Code in London Restaurants?
Short answer: yes… and no. In London, the dress code varies widely depending on the type of restaurant. There’s no official rulebook, but at the most luxurious venues, dressing formally is definitely expected—and enforced.
Some of the city’s most iconic and exclusive restaurants—such as The Ritz or Rules (London’s oldest restaurant)—require men to wear a jacket, and in some cases, a tie. Jeans and sneakers are typically not allowed. This isn’t a suggestion; it’s a rule. You could be turned away even with a reservation.
Meanwhile, casual dining spots, chains, or trendy modern venues are much more relaxed. Still, there’s an unspoken expectation of style and grooming. If you’re unsure, “smart casual” is always a safe bet.
What if you’re underdressed?
In informal places, you likely won’t face issues. But if you’re surrounded by well-dressed people in suits or chic outfits, you may feel underdressed—no one will judge you out loud… but you might judge yourself.
The Difference Between Fine Dining, Casual Restaurants, and Pubs
Fine Dining and Iconic Hotels Like The Ritz
Here, the standard is clear: elegance required. These are places where the atmosphere, protocol, and aesthetic matter just as much as the meal.
High-end restaurants and venues like The Ritz require men to wear suits and ties or at least a blazer. Entry is often denied to anyone wearing jeans or sneakers.
For women, the expectation is elegant dresses or coordinated outfits, heels or formal shoes, and polished makeup. It’s not mandatory to go full gala, but the clientele puts serious effort into dressing for the occasion.
Pubs and Bars: Style Meets Freedom
The contrast is massive. At most London pubs and bars, there’s no dress code. You can show up in jeans, a t-shirt, even sportswear.
Pubs generally don’t enforce any dress standards. People wear what they like.
You’ll often see people heading straight from the office to the pub—still in suits. Students? Hoodies and sneakers. And that’s totally fine. Londoners often embrace individual style, even in relaxed settings.
Mid-Range Restaurants and the “Smart Casual” Rule
These restaurants offer quality without demanding formalwear—but showing up too casual can feel off.
Think chinos and button-downs, simple dresses, midi skirts, loafers or clean sneakers. “Smart casual” is the name of the game, and if you’re unsure what to wear, this look will never let you down.
Quick Style Guide: What to Wear for Dinner in London Based on the Venue
| Venue Type | Men | Women | Formality Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Dining | Suit, tie, dress shoes | Elegant dress, heels, clutch | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very formal |
| Mid-range Restaurant | Shirt, blazer, chinos | Smart blouse, skirt or trousers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Smart casual |
| Pub / Bar | Jeans, polo or t-shirt, clean sneakers | Jeans, casual top, sneakers or boots | ⭐⭐ Casual |
How the Weather Affects Dinner Dress Codes in London
London’s weather is famously unpredictable. Dressing for dinner often means dressing for the forecast… and for surprise showers or temperature dips. Even if you have fancy plans, you can’t rely on the forecast too far in advance.
You really can’t plan what to wear until a day or two before your trip when you check the forecast for the next five days.
London Summers: From Heatwaves to Cold Snaps
Average July temperatures hover around 22°C, but with climate change, it might just as easily hit 36°C—or drop to 17°C. Sunshine at noon, chill at sunset.
I was in London from June 24th to 29th last year and ended up cold. It felt more like a chilly spring than a summer week in Southern Europe.
Lesson? Even in summer, bring layers and a light jacket.
Winters, Rain, and Surprises
Between October and March, prepare for cold, drizzle, and grey skies. Indoors is usually well-heated, but you’ll feel the chill walking between places.
If your dinner includes a stroll or a show beforehand, wear elegant warm layers: a long coat, waterproof boots, a scarf you can peel off once inside.
We had the heating on in our hotel every night. We brought light jackets and jeans, which weren’t quite enough. Others I know have visited in August and found it too hot. It really depends.
Packing Smart Without Overthinking It
Plan your dinner outfits with:
- Layers (thermal base, shirt, jacket)
- A trench coat or stylish waterproof
- Comfortable, elegant shoes
- Easy-to-combine clothing
And above all: check the forecast before you go out. In London, functionality meets flair.
What to Wear So You Don’t Feel Out of Place
London embraces diversity in dress, but it’s still easy to feel underdressed in certain spaces—even if no one says anything.
Sometimes, the people around you are very well-off and dressed to impress. You may feel awkward if you’re not dressed accordingly.
For Men
- Fine dining: Dark suit, white shirt, tie, formal shoes
- Mid-range: Shirt + blazer or knit, chinos or dark jeans, smart loafers or derbies
- Pub/bar: Jeans, t-shirt or polo, clean sneakers or casual boots
For Women
- Fine dining: Elegant dress or matching outfit, heels, clutch, subtle accessories
- Mid-range: Midi dress or pants with a stylish top, ankle boots, crossbody bag
- Pub/bar: Jeans, loose blouse, sneakers or low boots
Accessories, Shoes, and Common Mistakes
Footwear is crucial. Avoid new shoes, slippery soles, or open styles—especially on wet streets. And don’t bring just summer clothes: evenings are often chilly.
Practical Tips for Dressing Well in London Without Overthinking It
- Smart casual works everywhere: You’ll never be too overdressed or too relaxed.
- Check the restaurant website: Most list their dress code—pay attention.
- Build flexible outfits: Bring clothing you can dress up or tone down with accessories.
- Skip activewear: It’s fine for the gym, but you’ll feel out of place in many settings.
- Better overdressed than underdressed: No one ever complains about looking too sharp.
In Summary: What Do People Wear to Go Out for Dinner in London?
London is a city where you can be yourself, but also a place of elegance, history, and social codes. Dressing for dinner is a balance between the venue, the weather, and your personal style.
Now that you know what to wear—and why—you’ll be able to enjoy the evening without second-guessing your look.
