Brunch has its own special rhythm – relaxed enough to linger over coffee, but still an occasion where people like to look their best. The setting can shift from a casual neighborhood café to a stylish rooftop spot, and the shoes you wear often set the tone for the whole outfit.
Here are a few chic picks for any brunch:
Flats
There’s something about flats that fits brunch perfectly. They’re relaxed enough for a slow morning, yet still neat enough to make you feel dressed for the occasion. You can walk comfortably to the café, slide into your seat without fuss, and stay at ease even if brunch turns into a whole afternoon out. Unlike heels, there’s no risk of sore feet or looking too formal, yet they still give more polish than sneakers when you want a slightly dressed-up feel.
Outfit Ideas
Ballet flats in a soft neutral shade look absolutely beautiful with a floral dress or a pleated skirt for a feminine look. Loafers, on the other hand, bring more structure and look very sharp with cropped trousers and a light blouse. If you’d like something playful, try a pair in a bold color or with small details like buckles or metallic finishes – they’re cool and add character without overpowering the outfit. Even comfortable women’s flat sandals can feel right at home in a sunny outdoor setting, especially paired with wide-leg linen pants or a breezy sundress.
What to Watch Out For
Not every pair of flats works well for brunch. Very thin soles can leave your feet sore if you end up walking more than expected, and some styles can look a little too casual, closer to house shoes than streetwear. It’s worth choosing flats with a bit of structure and a finish that matches the setting – leather, suede, or a polished fabric will keep them feeling intentional rather than too laid-back.
Sneakers
Kings of comfort. Sneakers bring a relaxed vibe to brunch and work especially well when the setting is quite casual. They let you move comfortably if the café is a bit of a walk, and they feel just right for mornings that may turn into strolling around the city afterward. The trick is to pick pairs that look fresh and intentional, so they feel like part of the outfit rather than something you slipped on last minute.
Outfit Ideas
White leather sneakers are a classic for a reason – they look stunning with straight-leg jeans and a tucked-in shirt, or with a simple sundress for an effortless sporty-feminine mix. Retro-inspired sneakers (like Adidas Samba or Puma Speedcat) in muted colors can give a ton of character to tailored trousers and a lightweight knit. For something more modern, chunky soles or platform sneakers add edge when paired with wide-leg pants or a midi skirt.
What to Watch Out For
Overly worn or dirty sneakers are an obvious no-no and can easily drag down even the nicest outfit. Very bulky athletic styles may also look out of place at a social brunch, unless you absolutely know what you’re doing and how to style it cool. To be on the safe side, it’s worth choosing a clean, minimal design or a pair with beautiful detailing that feels polished enough for the setting.
Sandals
Sandals are made for sunny brunches, especially when the table is outdoors. They keep things light and breezy, letting your feet breathe while still looking chic enough for a social setting. Because they come in so many designs, it’s easy to find a pair that matches your mood.
Outfit Ideas
Strappy leather sandals in tan or almond tones shine with linen pants and a crisp white blouse. Espadrille sandals bring boho summer vibes in: pair them with a tea-length sundress in floral prints or muted stripes. And for something a little bolder, women’s platform sandals in raffia or cork give you height while keeping you comfy and chic – let them anchor a midi skirt in lightweight cotton or wide-leg trousers, and add a dainty necklace to finish off. Minimal leather slides also work wonders: try them with cuffed jeans and a tee, throw on a blazer or lightweight cardigan – and you’re ready.
What to Watch Out For
Avoid flimsy flip-flops or sandals with no support, as they can leave you uncomfortable after an hour or two and make the outfit feel underdone. Very delicate materials may also scuff easily outdoors, so it helps to pick a pair that can handle a little walking without losing their shape.
Ankle Boots
Though they might not be the first thing that comes to mind for brunch, ankle boots work beautifully once the weather cools down or when the setting leans more urban. When styled right, they are the chicest, most comfortable shoes for both casual and more dressed-up looks.
Outfit Ideas
Suede ankle boots in taupe or sand shades pair extremely well with skinny jeans and a chunky knit when brunch falls on a crisp morning. Sleeker leather boots in black or brown look sharp under a printed midi dress, especially with a denim jacket or lightweight trench. For something trendier, try ankle boots with a square toe and wear them with tailored trousers and a tucked-in blouse – a look that feels modern and stylish without being too dressed up for brunch (as long as the accessories stay simple).
What to Watch Out For
Heavy boots with thick soles can overwhelm a brunch outfit and feel better suited for evening or night out looks. Overly stiff leather might also feel uncomfortable if you’ll be sitting for a long time. Choosing lighter shades, softer textures, and a manageable heel height will keep ankle boots feeling brunch-appropriate rather than too formal.
Style Your Brunch
Shoes can shape the mood of a brunch just as much as the outfit itself. Pick a pair that feels right for the setting, keeps you comfortable, and adds that little spark of style, and the rest of the day will fall into place.
