Brunch is the perfect excuse to dress up—just a little. It’s that sweet spot between casual and polished, where you want to look put-together but still relaxed enough to enjoy your avocado toast (and maybe a mimosa or two). As a 5’2” woman, I’ve learned that the right outfit can make all the difference—flattering my frame while keeping things effortless.
Over the years, I’ve curated a few go-to brunch looks that work for everything from a casual coffee date to a fancier rooftop gathering. Each one is easy to throw on but still makes me feel stylish and confident. Here are seven of my favorites!
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Black Top + White Pants
TOP S | Pants 26 | Shoes | Bag
There’s something so sleek about black and white—it always looks intentional. A fitted black high-neck top keeps things modern, while crisp white pants brighten up the look. The key here is the slim black belt with a gold buckle—it cinches my waist (a must for us petites!) and adds a touch of sophistication.
Skin-tone heels elongate my legs, making this outfit perfect for a more elevated brunch spot. I’d pair it with simple gold hoops and a structured bag for a clean, polished finish.
Tailored Vest + Straight-leg Pants
Vest S | Pants 26| Shoes | Bag
Who says vests are just for suits? A well-fitted beige vest worn as a top instantly elevates any look. It’s sleek, unexpected, and surprisingly comfortable. Paired with straight-leg black pants, it creates a long, lean silhouette—perfect for petites.
I use the same black slim belt (yes, it’s a wardrobe MVP) to define my waist, and minimalist black heels keep the look sharp. A structured shoulder bag adds just the right amount of polish. This outfit is ideal for a chic downtown brunch where you want to look effortlessly put-together.
Striped Shirt + Tailored Shorts
Stripes are a brunch staple—they’re timeless, nautical, and just fun. I love a slightly oversized striped button-down shirt, half-tucked into crisp white shorts for that perfect “I woke up like this” vibe. A skinny brown belt adds definition, and slingback heels keep things feminine without being fussy.
A structured leather bag balances the relaxed top, making this outfit ideal for a breezy patio brunch. Sunglasses and a swipe of red lipstick complete the look.
Eyelet Dress + Strappy Sandals
A white eyelet dress is the ultimate brunch outfit—fresh, flirty, and effortlessly pretty. The midi length is perfect for petites because it doesn’t overwhelm my frame, and the eyelet detailing adds texture without being too fussy.
White strappy sandals keep the look light and airy, while a mini handbag holds just the essentials (phone, lipstick, credit card—priorities!). I’d throw on some delicate gold jewelry and call it a day. This is my go-to for garden brunches or any occasion where I want to feel feminine and fresh.
Strapless Top + Wide-leg Jeans
Top S | Jeans 26 | Bag | Shoes
Sometimes, you want to look a little edgy—but still brunch-appropriate. A fitted black strapless top paired with wide-leg light wash jeans is the perfect balance. The high waist flatters my petite frame, and the wide legs add drama without drowning me.
Black strappy heels dress it up, and a kisslock clutch gives it a retro touch. This outfit is ideal for a trendy spot where you want to look stylish but not like you tried too hard.
Crew-neck Top + Palazzo Pants
Palazzo pants are so underrated—they’re flowy, comfortable, and make a statement. A stretchy beige crop top keeps things balanced, and the high waist elongates my legs. The terracotta brown shade is warm and unexpected, perfect for summer or fall brunches.
Skin-tone heels blend seamlessly, making my legs look miles long. This outfit is great for when you want to be comfortable and turn heads.
V-Neck Cardigan + Beige Pants
Cardigan S | Pants S | Bag | Shoes
For cooler mornings, a soft ivory cardigan layered over a cami is the perfect brunch solution. The v-neck is flattering, and the slightly cropped length keeps it modern. Beige pants keep the look neutral and polished, while pointed-toe pumps add a sleek finish.
This outfit is ideal for a cozy café or a late-fall brunch—effortless, comfortable, but still put-together.
Brunch fashion should be fun, flattering, and fuss-free. As a petite woman over 40, I’ve found that the right proportions, a few key accessories, and a little confidence go a long way. These seven outfits are my tried-and-true brunch formulas—each one easy to wear but still stylish enough to make me feel my best.
What’s your go-to brunch look?