To a rooftop bar you wear a polished summer look with an extra layer for the wind and shoes you can stand in for a long time. For women trousers with a flared leg, a knee-length skirt or a dress with a smart top works, for men dark trousers with a knitted polo or shirt. Most rooftop bars ask for smart casual or something smarter.
What makes a rooftop different?
A rooftop bar combines the atmosphere of a city bar with the open air of a terrace. You sit high up, it is often windy, and the evening cools down faster than you expect. Most rooftops are also stylishly furnished, with good music, soft lighting and guests who have visibly made an effort. Match your outfit to the location and any dress code. In early summer it can still cool down quickly after sunset.
Colours and fabrics for the evening
| Element | Best choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Colour | Black, navy, white, cream | Suits twilight and city lights |
| Fabric | Fine-knit or matte satin | Drapes beautifully, barely creases |
| Shoe | Loafer, block heel, smart sneaker | For stairs and long standing |
| Extra layer | Cardigan or light blazer | Against the wind |
For women: three formulas
The first formula is trousers with an elegant top. The Daphni in black is a pair of trousers with pleats and a flared leg of 95% polyester and 5% elastane. The flared leg gives the trousers a clear line. Combine them with the Cordelia in white, a blouse with V-neck and matte satin look of 96% polyester and 4% elastane, and a low heel or a smart flat shoe.
The second formula is a skirt. The Rosa in black is an elegant knee-length skirt of 95% polyester and 5% elastane. A knee-length skirt can be more practical than a long, wide skirt in wind and on high bar stools. The third formula is a monochrome look in one colour, complemented with jewellery. You will find more ideas for evenings out in the Dinner & Dates collection.
For men: dark and calm
For men dark trousers with a knitted polo are a simple option. The Vincent in black is slim-fit trousers with mid-rise of 33.5% viscose, 31.6% polyamide, 29.1% polyester and 6.8% elastane. Wear them with the Julian in cool grey, a knitted polo with quarter zip of 84.3% cotton, 10.9% silk and 4.8% linen. If you want it a little sportier, the Atticus in black suits, a striped cotton polo with buttons of 70% cotton, 25% polyester and 5% elastane. Add a light jacket or overshirt and you are ready for the evening. You will find more options at Dinner & Dates for Men.
Wind, stairs and bar stools
At height it can get quite windy. In strong wind choose clothing that stays in place and avoid loose accessories. Also think of the practical side: many rooftops have stairs or lifts, floors of wood or metal and high bar stools. Thin heels can get stuck between planks or grates. So choose a block heel, a flat shoe or a smart sneaker. A knee-length skirt or trousers are easier than a short dress if you want to sit on a high stool.
The extra layer: indispensable
Check the evening temperature and bring a light extra layer if needed. A light blazer, fine-knit cardigan or overshirt can be handy. Choose a colour that suits your outfit, such as black, navy or grey, so the layer becomes part of the look. A cardigan is easy to fold up and take with you, which is handy if you go from work to the bar first.
Accessories and atmosphere
- Bag: small and with a strap, so your hands are free for the glass.
- Jewellery: one statement piece, such as a gold necklace or a pair of lovely earrings.
- Sunglasses: for the golden hour before sunset, as long as you can take them off later.
- Perfume: subtle and fresh, because you sit close to others.
- Watch or bracelet: a simple model finishes the look.
What you had better leave
Check the dress code if the location is more formal; beachwear usually suits less well. An outfit that only works in warm weather is also risky, because the evening can feel cold. Avoid clothing that creases a lot when you sit, such as very thin linen in light colours. And remember that you may be at home or at the office first: choose an outfit that can handle a whole day, so you do not have to change.
If it does rain
Many rooftops have a canopy or an indoor section, but check that beforehand. A short shower is no reason to change your plans, as long as your shoes have a non-slip sole and you have a compact jacket or umbrella with you. A fine-knit layer, such as you will find at knitwear for Men or knitwear for Women, keeps you warm if you have to shelter indoors. If in doubt, choose dark colours, because raindrops show up faster on light and thin material.
From office to rooftop
If you come straight from the office, you need to change little. Swap shoes for a pair with a bit more character, add a piece of jewellery or a pocket square and put on a light layer for the evening. That way you turn a working day into an evening out with a few small touches. A small bag with a lipstick, perfume and an extra pair of earrings is enough.
Shop the look
Cordelia: blouse with V-neck, white
Daphni: trousers with flared leg, black
Rosa: knee-length skirt, black
Julian: knitted polo with quarter zip, cool grey
Vincent: slim-fit trousers, black
Atticus: striped cotton polo, black
Frequently asked questions
What is the dress code for a rooftop bar?
Usually smart casual to stylish. Choose a polished outfit in dark or neutral colours and avoid sportswear and beachwear.
Which shoes are suitable for a rooftop?
A block heel, a smart flat shoe or a clean sneaker. Thin heels can get stuck between grates or planks.
Should I bring a jacket?
Often yes. Check the weather forecast, especially the wind and evening temperature.
Can I wear a short dress?
You can, but a knee-length skirt or trousers are more practical on a high bar stool and in the wind.
