Rarely is whipping up a good cocktail enough to garner attention behind the bar. As a bartender or barista, you need visual presence. Eye-catching bartender clothes provide you with an easy way to grab attention and make a lasting statement.
So what makes for a good bartender uniform? Here’s some sound bartender advice: as a mixologist, you want to combine functionality with understated style while standing out from the crowd.
Your bartender wear should both communicate your mixology skills and invite clients to a drink alongside a casual conversation.
Depending on the bar staff dress code, these are the four bartender outfits to go for:
Read on for the best examples of bartender clothes and styling tips.
[Want to add some oomph to your bar uniform? Broken Bartender’s kick-ass clothing and accessories offer fun and witty designs for the professional barman and woman.]
The laid-back casual
This bartender outfit consists of the basics: a sturdy pair of denim jeans and a humble, black t-shirt. Honestly, this combo is the workhorse of bartender outfits. It fits a casual bar setting, from sports bars to any regular haunt you find in a bar district.
But how do you distinguish yourself with a basic outfit like that? Here’s how: get a black t-shirt with a witty print that both grabs attention and instantly conveys you’re bartending.
These three Broken bartender t-shirts do exactly that:
This high-quality What Rhymes With Friday? Alcohol T-Shirt is guaranteed to draw thirsty guests.
Are you guest bartending? Show the regulars that you’re fresh meat with this Guest Bartender T-Shirt.
See the bartender clothing this female mixologist is wearing? Don the Bartender Forever T-Shirt to become the most fashionable person behind the bar.
Prefer sticking to a clean, black shirt? Add extra swag to your casual outfit by wearing a cocktail-themed trucker cap. From the espresso martini to the old fashioned hat, Broken Bartender’s got your favorite cocktail covered.
The all-black attire
Are you working at an upscale bar? Try this understated style of bartender clothing. This timeless and sophisticated bartender uniform consists of just a black long-sleeve dress shirt and matching black pants. But there are a few hacks to up your outfit.
Source: Pexels
Finish your black attire with a stylish bib apron or waist apron. It can be a leather apron, denim, or twill – but make sure it’s black and high-quality. Wearing an apron will tell your high-rolling clientele that you’re here to serve. Plus, you might be able to keep your strainers, jiggers, and other tools tucked in your apron pocket. Form and function combined!
Finally, add a unique flair to your outfit by sticking a (few) bartender pins on your apron.
The tiki bartender
Here’s an outfit that equals Piña Coladas at the beach: a short-sleeve shirt with a sleek pair of chinos. Wear these bartender clothes if you’re working at a tiki bar or your speciality is island cocktails.
Source: Pexels
For a subtle look, try a dark short-sleeve shirt with a small but colorful pattern. Go for a Hawaiian shirt to fully match the cocktail stereotype.
An adjustable apron is again recommended to convey a professional attitude while sticking to the theme. Wearing a bib-apron can help you pull off an otherwise over-the-top shirt.
The classy professional
Are you the type of crafty mixologist who meticulously cuts their garnish and uses the latest cocktail techniques (like switching in bartending)? Then you should be wearing a dress shirt with a fitted vest and bow tie/necktie to go with slim pants. It’s a razor-sharp, clean look that your guests will surely appreciate.
These bartender clothes suit environments from upscale bars to casinos, hotels, and any formal event that demands class and style. At galas, weddings, and royal receptions – nothing is too fancy for the professional bartender outfit.
Add a bartender pin to your vest for a personal touch and fun twist. Who says a professional bartender can’t crack a joke?
FAQS about bartender clothes
You now know what bartender outfits will make you look good and professional while on the job. Below are some FAQS you might still have about bartender clothes.
What clothes should I wear as a bartender?
We cover the four best bartender outfits in this blog post. As a general rule, your outfit should match the ambiance and style of the establishment you’re serving at. A t-shirt and jeans are OK at a sports bar, but an upscale bar might require you to wear a long-sleeve dress shirt.
When picking your bartender clothes, stick to what’s comfortable and functional. You’ll need to move freely and work fast, so you don’t want your clothes to get in the way. An adjustable apron adds functionality to any outfit.
Source: Pexels
What colors are best for bartender clothes?
Dark colors like black, navy blue, and dark green are often recommended because they’re easy to clean and hide stains well. White dress shirts are certainly stylish but are a bit impractical because they easily stain.
What about footwear for bartenders?
Your white sneakers won’t last a night in a high-traffic environment where liquids spill.
Non-slip footwear is essential for both safety and comfort when working long shifts in a bar. Black non-slip shoes make a popular choice for their durability and practicality.
Can I wear accessories with my bartender clothes?
Yes, you can! But keep in mind that accessories should be minimal and practical. It’s best not to use any accessories that get in the way, like big watches or dangling jewelry.
Instead, use a stylish apron or add a few bartender pins to your outfit to appear more professional while adding a personal touch.
How should I keep my bartender outfit clean and hygienic?
It's important that your bartender outfit is always clean and well-ironed to maintain a professional appearance. That’s why it’s best not to use clothes that wrinkle or stain easily.
Again, opt for stain-resistant clothing to protect against spills and splashes. Darker colors are very effective at hiding stains!
[Wondering where to buy cool bartender clothes? Broken Bartender’s unique t-shirts and cheeky accessories are the bartender wear you’re looking for.]
