Our Favorite Date Night Outfits Are Available Now
A successful date may require something other than a particular outfit. But there’s no denying the right ‘fit can help clear the way for a great evening. So whether you think of your date night outfit as a confidence booster, a means of self-expression, or an opportunity to show off the latest trends, no doubt it matters.
Increasingly, date night outfits no longer have to be super dressed up. (Think leather women’s shorts and knee-high boots vs. a body-con dress and strappy heels.) Instead, women are dressing more for the occasion—and their mood. But, of course, that doesn’t mean there’s no pressure to dress appropriately, especially when you’re still getting to know someone and even when you’ve been together for quite some time. (To wit, couples that have been in a relationship for long periods might take a more lax approach to date night dressing. But they don’t have to!)
We’ll look at what to wear on your next date, whether it’s your first meet-up or another outing to your fave romantic spot. But first, let’s break it down.
What to wear on a date right now
Gone are the days of automatically donning a dress and heels for a date. While this remains a go-to look for dressier occasions, suffice it to say only some dates qualify. Think of an initial meet-up over coffee versus an anniversary dinner or a walk on the beach vs. lunch at a trendy restaurant.
As mentioned, where you’re going is crucial in determining what you’ll put on—second only to how good an outfit makes you feel. Do you love a particular look but are not sure exactly where you’ll end up? Then it’s probably easiest to err on the side of caution. Swap jeans for more polished pants, add a boot with a heel and complete the look with a few pieces of jewelry. Now, if you know the location, read on. But even if you don’t, keep reading for ‘fit inspo.
What to wear on a first date
We can’t lie—date night outfits for first dates can be tricky. Of course, you want to make a good impression. But you wouldn’t want to sacrifice a sense of personal style, either. (Plus, a first date could be coffee that happily leads to dinner.) Dressing for versatility is critical here. Our suggestion, choose one piece in a bright color to pair with a neutral one. This way, you’ll likely make an impression without saying, “look at me!”
We love a pair of tailored red trousers teamed with a chunky black knit. Polished yet relaxed, this outfit you could wear to work and meet up for cocktails with friends. In other words, it's a safe bet.
What to wear for a date on the beach
If you’re lucky enough to live near a beach (or simply be going on a date to one), keep comfort top of mind. It may get chilly so close to the water, whether strolling through the sand or taking in tableside ocean views. So grab a piece that is equally cozy and chic, like a down puffer.
The layer beneath for ultimate outfit versatility, and add a pair of stretchy, high-rise, straight-leg denim. A similar pair will balance the silhouette and offset any bulkiness at the top. Finish with sneakers or hiker-style boots, and add some bold silver or gold jewelry.
What to wear on a lunch date
While the location of your lunch date may not be casual, per se, the time of day means less need to dress to the nines. Still, there’s an opportunity to stay stylish. We like camo cargo pants partnered with a textured black mock neck top for a laid-back, fashionable look. (You can also swap out the camo for a dressier cargo style in satin or silk.) Complete the look with a pair of heeled boots or mules, plus a couple of statement jewelry pieces.
What to wear for a night out
For those nights when you know you're bound to have fun but are not sure where the evening will take you: use this opportunity to have fun and dress up your date night outfit. Therefore, it is time to rock sequins, embroidery, volume, micro hemlines, and more (though maybe only some at a time). Make it one to remember in a sequined dress in a warm neutral like champagne. The long sleeves and mock neck balance the mini length nicely, and a pair of go-anywhere black leather ankle boots give this look a casual edge.
What to wear to a romantic dinner
Whether coupled up for a while now or you’re still getting to know one another, romantic dinners are moments to go for more sleek, sophisticated styles. That may mean adhering to a monochrome look, opting for tailored pieces, or simply elevating your outfit with a great pair of heels. Stay of the moment in a leather-like mini skirt paired with a mesh-sleeved turtleneck top. While both pieces are black, their different textures add easy visual interest. Complete the look with a pair of tights and heeled leather boots.