British toasts: What they mean and how they connect to Irish style

When you hear British toasts, formal or casual phrases spoken before drinking, often tied to tradition, celebration, or camaraderie. Also known as drinking customs, they’re more than just words—they’re social glue. In Ireland, you’ll hear the same ones, sometimes with a twist. "To your health," "Here's to us," "Bottoms up"—these aren’t just English imports. They’re part of the same cultural fabric that binds Irish pubs, family dinners, and wedding receptions across the Irish Sea. The way people raise a glass here doesn’t change much from London to Limerick. But why does that matter for fashion? Because how you dress for a toast isn’t just about style—it’s about belonging.

Think about it: if you’re wearing a new pair of jeans to a pub night, or a tailored suit for a wedding toast, you’re not just looking good—you’re signaling you get the rules. Irish women over 60 choosing wide-leg jeans aren’t just being comfy—they’re saying they’re part of the scene. The same goes for someone in a zip-up hoodie at a casual gathering. These clothes aren’t chosen randomly. They’re worn with the unspoken understanding that you’ll be raising a glass, sharing stories, and joining in the ritual. And those rituals? They’re built on toasts. The oldest shoe brand in the world? It’s still standing because people wear those shoes to places where toasts happen—dinner tables, pubs, gala events. Even Kate Middleton’s evening gowns aren’t just about elegance—they’re about showing up in the right way when someone says, "To the Queen."

British toasts don’t dictate what you wear, but they shape the context where your outfit matters. You don’t need a cocktail dress to say "cheers," but you do need to know when it’s expected. That’s why Irish fashion keeps it practical, respectful, and rooted in real life. Whether you’re in Galway or Glasgow, the toast comes first. The clothes? They just help you stand tall while you raise your glass.

Below, you’ll find real guides from Irish women and men who know exactly how to dress for every kind of gathering—whether it’s a quiet pint, a family dinner, or a formal toast at a castle wedding. No fluff. Just what works.