What should you wear for outdoor dining?
Katie Wright offers some al fresco fashion ideas.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Deciding what to wear hasn’t been much of a challenge during the pandemic, what with being stuck at home most of the time and having the same selection of loungewear on rotation for months on end.
Now that lockdown restrictions are starting to ease, it’s time to get excited about fashion again. Yet we’re faced with a dilemma: what to wear when all of our socialising has to be done outdoors?
Wondering how you’re going to glam up for all those al fresco dinners and pub garden catch-ups, when it’s still rather chilly out? Here’s how to look cool and keep warm…
Bright knitwear
Usually, right about now we’d be packing away our cosiest winter jumpers, but we’re going to need them for a bit longer this year.
Keep your spring knitwear feeling fresh by choosing bright colours, cool pastels, jazzy patterns and sassy slogans.
Joules Miranda Jumper, £59.95, Kaleidoscope (trousers, stylist’s own)
Lyle & Scott Women’s Cloud Check Jumper, £75
Lipsy Gingham Check Button Through Puff Sleeve Cardigan, £36, Next
Lots of layers
You might begin an outdoor dinner while the sun’s still shining, but by the time the main courses arrive, you could be shivering if you’re not bundled up enough.
Layering will help to keep you insulated without adding bulk. Try a maxi dress or skirt with boots (and thick socks or tights underneath), then add a lightweight knit and your warmest coat when the temperature drops.
Hope The Cotton and Silk Drape Knit Jumper – Pale Blue Sky, £150; The Contrast Hem Pleated Skirt – Cobalt £95 (shoes, stylist’s own)
Aniston Casual Maxi Dress, £50, Freemans (boots, stylist’s own)
Monsoon Spot Print Pleated Midi Skirt Green, £49
Stylish sweatpants
Not ready to give up the drawstring trousers you’ve been wearing daily for months? You don’t have to.
Upgrade your tired jersey joggers for a more luxe variety of sweatpants, teamed with trainers for more casual occasions or sandals (if you’re feeling brave).
M&Co Pink Denim Jacket, £32.99; Terracotta Crew Neck T-Shirt, £9.99; Stone Utility Joggers, £24.99 (shoes, stylist’s own)
Tu at Sainsbury’s Tan Tapered Leg Pull On Trousers £18
Hush Cropped Easy Trousers, £49
Statement earrings
Necklaces and rings may not be visible under all those layers but earrings certainly will be, so why not make a statement with a striking dangly pair? It’s the perfect finishing touch and will elevate your al fresco outfit.
Ottoman Hands Bellezza Turquoise Front Hoop Earrings, £60, Wolf & Badger
Marks and Spencer Collection Mixed Statement Drop Earrings, £12.50