Spring Brunch Outfits: Expert Tips from Gaâla's Icons

Brunch, a delightful blend of breakfast and lunch, presents an ideal occasion to indulge in delicious food while flaunting a fabulous new outfit. In our pursuit of the perfect brunch attire, we consulted Kelly de Gaalon, the visionary founder of Gaâla. Kelly generously provides her expertise and recommendations from Gaâla's collection to help achieve the perfect brunch look.

Kelly, what's your go-to spring brunch outfit, and what elements are essential for a stylish ensemble this season?

"As a busy mom of two young boys, I must confess that indulging in brunch is a rare treat for me. However, when I do get the chance, comfort is paramount. I love the convenience of ready-to-wear dresses from our collection. The Melissa wrap dress in linen from our spring collection is so effortlessly beautiful, while the easy, breezy silhouette of the Caroline dress is a joy to wear. I adore a maxi dress like the Lacey dress; it has the loveliest fit and feel.

From left to right: Melissa wrap dress, Caroline dress, Lacey dress

Regarding what's essential for a stylish ensemble this season, I might not be the best authority, as I am not much of a trend follower in my personal style, ha! I will personally be living in our recycled ballerinas this spring and summer, along with our knits, as Normandy weather tends to be unpredictable.”

When curating an outfit for brunch in spring, what advice do you have for selecting the perfect accessories to complement the ensemble?

“I'm confident that a chic basket weave like our soon-launching Ruth bag will be the hero piece of many 2024 spring/summer wardrobes. Alternatively, our Clara ball clasp bag, handcrafted from upcycled tweed and featuring the most darling motif lining, is ideal for elevated spring brunch outfits or a high tea.”

Can you share a memorable experience that has influenced your approach to designing spring brunch outfits?

From left to right: Rosalie Midi Dress, Lily Mini Dress

There isn't any one moment that stands out; rather, it's a culmination of many. When I'm surrounded by swatches of vibrant colors and patterns from the upcycled and eco-friendly fabrics we source, I envision sun-drenched picnics in lush green parks, leisurely brunches with friends, running barefoot with my kids in the garden, and all the joyful moments that springtime brings. These moments translate into the designs, infusing them with a sense of vitality and joy that I can only hope shines through in every piece.

Can you suggest some versatile pieces that transition seamlessly from a casual brunch to a more formal event?

"That's an excellent question. Given its carefully curated color palette for versatility, I would suggest considering any piece from our Old Money collection. One of my favorites is our Linda knit dress, which effortlessly transitions from a casual brunch gathering when paired with a denim jacket and sneakers to a more formal event with the addition of heels or flats and a blazer. Another go-to favorite of mine, and a dress I wear on repeat, is the Rosie dress in black and white. Its high collar and relaxed fit give it an appropriate workplace feel, while the mini length with ruffled hem adds a touch of playfulness. It's an unfussy, easy-to-wear, yet all-around elegant dress, perfect for a work meeting over brunch.”

What role do you think fashion plays in shaping our social interactions, particularly in casual settings like a spring brunch?

“Fashion is a powerful expression that shapes our social interactions in many ways, even in casual settings like a spring brunch. It acts as a nonverbal communicator, conveying messages about our personality, tastes, and even our mood for the day. As Judith Rasband says, "The way we dress affects the way we think, the way we feel, the way we act, and the way others react to us."

However, dressing well or being fashionable isn't a prerequisite for being interesting or valuable to others. True worth lies beyond the fabric and stitching of our clothing. Yet, I believe how we dress and carry ourselves in what we wear tells a story about who we are and reflects our values, personality, and self-expression. So, while fashion may not define our worth, it certainly influences how we navigate and express ourselves.”

In closing, we sincerely thank Kelly for sharing her valuable insights with us, from discussing the significance of fashion in shaping social interactions to exploring the versatility of brunch outfits for spring, along with some of her favorites.

Just for fun:

The history of brunch dates back to the late 19th century in England. It originated as a leisurely meal enjoyed by the upper class, typically served between breakfast and lunch. The term "brunch" is believed to have been coined by British author Guy Beringer in his 1895 essay "Brunch: A Plea," in which he proposed a lighter mid-morning meal as a cure for hangovers from the previous night's festivities.

Brunch gained popularity in the United States in the early 20th century, particularly in cities like New York, where hotels began offering elaborate brunch buffets on Sundays. This trend was fueled by socialites and celebrities who frequented these establishments, turning brunch into a fashionable social event.

During the mid-20th century, brunch became more accessible to the general public as restaurants and cafes started offering brunch menus. Brunch's relaxed and informal nature appealed to a wider audience, and it soon became a popular weekend tradition for families and friends to gather and enjoy a leisurely meal together.

In the latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st century, brunch rose in popularity, becoming synonymous with weekends and special occasions. Its appeal lies in its combination of breakfast and lunch dishes, offering various options to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Additionally, the relaxed atmosphere of brunch allows people to socialize and unwind, making it a cherished culinary pastime enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.

Today, brunch has become a cultural phenomenon embraced worldwide, with countless restaurants, cafes, and eateries offering brunch menus to cater to the demand. It has become more than just a meal—it's a social experience that brings people together to celebrate food, friendship, and impeccable taste!