Bottomless Brunch Dress Code: What to Wear in London

When you’re heading out for a bottomless brunch, a leisurely meal with unlimited drinks, usually served on weekends in London’s trendiest spots. Also known as brunch with free booze, it’s not just about the mimosas and pancakes—it’s about showing up ready to be seen. This isn’t your casual coffee run. London’s top brunch spots have unwritten rules, and if you show up in joggers and a hoodie, you might get side-eyed—or worse, denied entry.

The dress code, the unspoken set of style expectations for a venue or event. Also known as attire policy, it varies wildly depending on where you go. In Soho, a sleek midi dress or tailored trousers with a blouse works. In Shoreditch, a cool jumpsuit or high-waisted jeans with a statement top is fine. But in Mayfair or Knightsbridge? They expect polish. Think silk blouses, structured jackets, or even a little black dress. No ripped jeans, no flip-flops, no sports bras. Even if the place looks casual, they’re watching. A friend got turned away from a popular spot last month because her leggings had a hole in the knee. That’s not exaggeration—it happened.

And it’s not just about looking good. The brunch experience, a social event combining food, drinks, and atmosphere, often centered around group gatherings. Also known as brunch outing, it’s part of London’s wider party girls culture. This is where friendships are cemented, selfies are taken, and the night ahead is planned. Dressing right isn’t vanity—it’s respect. For the staff, the vibe, and the other people trying to enjoy their Sunday. You’re not just eating. You’re participating in a ritual. And that ritual has rules.

What you wear also affects how you’re treated. Walk in looking put-together, and you’ll get better seating, quicker service, maybe even a complimentary extra round. Walk in looking like you rolled out of bed, and you might wait 20 minutes for a table—even if you booked weeks ahead. It’s not fair, but it’s real. London’s brunch scene is competitive. Venues are packed. They’re filtering for the kind of crowd that brings energy, not just appetite.

There’s a difference between dressed up and overdressed. You don’t need heels if you’re going to be standing for photos by the window. But you also don’t need to look like you’re heading to the gym. A clean pair of dark jeans, a tucked-in top, and a light blazer? Perfect. A slip dress with strappy sandals? Even better. Layering works. A scarf, a chunky necklace, a pair of loafers—they all say you tried.

And don’t forget the weather. London changes fast. A light coat or a stylish trench over your outfit? Smart. A puffer jacket? Not so much. Save that for the tube ride home.

Below, you’ll find real tips from people who’ve been there—what worked, what didn’t, and how to avoid the mistakes that make you the odd one out. Whether you’re planning your first bottomless brunch or you’ve been doing this for years, the rules haven’t changed. Show up looking like you belong, and you’ll get treated like you do.