30 Date Night Outfit Ideas For Anywhere The Night Might Take You
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Is there anything more dread-inducing than thinking about what to wear on a date? What about a special date night between you and your partner? Even if you don’t like to have a fancy night out on the town, deciding on date night outfits can be a bit intimidating!
So how do you find the perfect cute date night outfit for any occasion? Consider this your one-stop, all-inclusive guide, as we cover everything from affordable outfits for a casual first date, to deciding what to wear to a bar, or to more glamorous options, such as choosing a classy dinner outfit. And this doesn’t meant that you have to go out and buy an entirely new outfit. Many of these date night outfit ideas might include pieces that you already have in your closet! (If you have been following along, we love a capsule wardrobe around here!)
Plus, we have some bonus tips and tricks for finding your perfect look so you can go out in style and stay within budget! Let’s get inspired to find that new date night dress or casual dinner date sweater and start planning outfits today.
What is a Date Night Outfit?
Sure, this might seem obvious, but a definition never hurt! A date night outfit is an ideal ensemble that you wear on a bona fide date, whether it's your first date, second or third (or more). The point of this kind of outfit is to make you feel like the best version of yourself and reflect your personal style. You want to feel comfortable; you want to feel relaxed. You want to feel confident and empowered. But most importantly, you want to be able to look back at photos later and remember what made you smile that night.
How to Find the Perfect Date Night Outfit for You
Find Your Most Flattering Fit
Deciding what to wear can be a nerve wracking experience. The first step to finding your perfect outfit for this occasion is trying on a ton of options. Do this step even if it's just in front of the mirror at home, so you can get an idea of what style of outfit might suit you best. Break out of your comfort zone by experimenting with different silhouettes, fabrics and colors.
A straight-up pencil skirt might not be for you, but a flared skirt or wide-leg trouser option might be more your speed. Make sure to try on pieces in different fabrics, too. A shiny satin dress might not be the best choice for a casual date night at a burger joint, but a cotton sundress would definitely do the trick.
While the first date might not be the time to try out a completely new look, if you’re feeling comfortable, go for it! The fun of fashion is creating an outfit that shows your personality and highlights your unique, individual style. Besides, this outfit is for you.
It's All About the Accessories
There are no rules for how to find the perfect date night outfit, particularly when it comes to accessories like shoes and bags. Feel free to step outside the box if you want something more unique than classic pumps for dashing through restaurants or strappy heels for dancing. This is your chance to workout those creative muscles and experiment with styles that you wouldn't normally.
Tip: Keep your outfit limited to one statement piece. If you have a bold or bright colored top, keep the rest of the look neutral. If you love a bright pop of color in a bag or a pair of heels, make them the star of the show! While you should absolutely have fun with accessories and show your personality, too many competing accessories become cluttered and distracting.
The Location Of the Date Matters
The location of your date should determine the appropriate level of formality for your outfit. For example, if you're going to an upscale restaurant or dancing into the night, choose something more formal like a full-length gown (or at least a dress). If it's somewhere comfortable like a hike, bakery, or pumpkin patch, don't be afraid to go casual with your look; you can even wear jeans!
Consider What Your Date Will Be Wearing
While couples that have been together for a while may like for their outfits to coordinate perfectly, this is one of the few times when it isn't essential. You want to make sure that your outfit works with theirs, without being too matchy. If you know what they will be wearing ahead of time, try to get a sense of whether to dress up or dress more casual before you pick out an outfit. This way you won't go overboard with your outfit if the other is wearing jeans, or dress down too much if they’ll be sporting a blazer.
Check the Weather
Even though you're probably not going to wear shorts on a formal date, it's worth thinking about what the weather will be like before you pick out your date outfits. Just because it's a summer date doesn't mean that you should go with pastels and florals. But also, a summer outfit is likely not the time for heavy jeans or layers.
Then again, winter dates can call for some extra pizzazz from your outfit, depending on how formal the occasion is. Winter shouldn’t limit you to only chunky sweaters and boots—dinner, after all, will likely be indoors—but keep in mind that open-toed shoes may leave your feet feeling cold!
Regardless of the season, always keep in mind where the date will be taking place. Is it outdoors? In cooler months, you will likely need a jacket. Will you be walking in grass or on uneven surfaces? If so, heels or wedges may not be the best option.
One often forgotten consideration with dates is making sure that you know how you are getting to your date location! If you are walking, bring comfortable shoes, a jacket, or an umbrella, if necessary. Are you taking a car? Public transit? A ride share? As you get ready, make sure to know all the details so that you can dress accordingly!
Is This the First Date?
We mentioned that there are no rules to fashion, because there are none. But, a first date can come with added pressure of meeting someone for the first time and the potential for awkwardness (we have all been there!). So, most importantly, it’s important to choose a first date outfit that you feel your very best in and that when you look into the mirror, you are choosing to dress for yourself. If you don’t like to wear heels, don’t wear them on a first date because of the misconception that you should. Not a fan of dresses? Pants? Skirts? Wool overcoats? It doesn’t matter what the article of clothing is — stay true to yourself, your personal style, and the rest will play out exactly as it should!
Date Night Outfit Ideas - What to Wear on a First, Second or Third Date
What To Wear For A Night Out
Shop: Blazer | Bodysuit | Sunglasses | Pearl Barrettes | Heels | Tweed Skirt
When you think of black, you don’t have to think of a little black dress. This long, fitted blazer can be paired with your favorite structured skirt (we went with tweed!) and your favorite ankle strap heels. It’s easy to keep the silhouette chic by pairing the look with a form fitting bodysuit, which makes for a contrast with the blazer. The pearl barrettes are a fun touch of bling without being overpowering. And, of course, top it off with a great pair of sunglasses.
Date Night Outfit For: first date, dinner, classy dinner, fancy casual
Accessory idea: Since the rest of the outfit is monochromatic, add a pop of color with a handbag or a red lip! Or, add a pair of patterned leggings or tights underneath the skirt.
More Inspiration:
If you’re not a fan of a skirt on a first date (or really ever), a monochromatic moment is a show stopper. Add a few touches of gold to make a simple outfit feel more chic, and finish off the look with a pair of sunglasses until the sun goes down.
What To Wear For A Movie Date
Shop: Sweater | Moto Jacket | Skirt | Earrings | Boots
Anyone who has been to a movie knows that the air conditioning can be wildly unpredictable. But, more often than not, it is on full blast. Cozy up with a dressy, but relaxed maxi skirt. The side slit adds a bit of sexiness without being too revealing. A chunky sweater or cowl neck sweater and moto jacket add layers and structure, while the tall boots are perfect to keep legs and toes warm in a cold theater.
Don’t keep this cute date night outfit in your closet for just the theater, either! This look is perfect for cold weather and when you’re searching for what to wear on a winter dinner date!
Date Night Outfit For: first date, casual dinner, movie date, coffee date, winter date night
Accessory idea: To remove excess bulk from your sweater, add a thin belt around your waist and tuck the sweater into it. Pull up on the sweater until the belt is covered, giving your sweater a cropped appearance!
More Inspiration:
Another outfit idea for those that aren’t fans of skirts or dresses, this simple outfit pairs classic denim with a feminine sweater. Each of these pieces you may already have in your closet and be easily styled with a variety of different outfits—from dressed up to dressed down!
What To Wear For a Coffee Shop Date
Creating a casual date outfit is the name of the game when it comes to getting ready to meet at a coffee shop. Keep the look simple with a dressy sweater, sneakers, and denim. (Just make sure that your favorite jeans are free from excess wear, destroyed detail, or distressing to avoid being too casual) Top it off with a tailored wool coat—if the occasion calls for it, that is!—in a fun pattern or print.
Date Night Outfit For: casual dinner date, movie date, coffee date, outdoor date
More Inspiration:
Shop:
Sweater Coat |
Tank |
Jeans |
Sunglasses |
Boots
Coffee shop dates are meant to be a casual, no-stress outing. Keep the look simple with a henley tank, oversized sweater coat and your favorite pair of denim. These boots are ideal for year round temperatures and unpredictable weather!
What to Wear For an Outdoor Picnic (Or Wine Tasting!)
Shop: Denim Jacket | Tee | Pants | Sandals | Hat | Sunglasses
Wear a look that is light and airy, since this date will likely be in the sun of the warmer months. Simple accessories complete the look and a pair of tan sandals are always a great option to pair with loose fitting pants, but keep in mind the location of the picnic or winery. If you are walking through uneven terrain to a rolling lawn, you may want to opt for flat sandals or slides to avoid tripping or sinking into the grass. This outfit can also easily transition to fall by adding boots or a hoodie in lieu of a tee shirt!
Date Night Outfit For: first date, casual dinner, coffee date, summer date, fancy casual dinner
Accessory tip: If you know that you will be outside, use this occasion to add a wide brim hat to your look instead of a pair of sunglasses!
More Inspiration:
Outdoor picnics can be hard to dress for. When the sun is out, it might be hot. Underneath a cloud? Maybe not so much. This shacket provides a loose layer that you can easily take on and off along with the sun’s rays, while denim and heather gray are always a casual combo for a relaxed lunch under the clear blue (hopefully) sky.
What to Wear For A Classy Dinner Date
A fancy restaurant is a great time to get extra dressed up with your dinner date outfit. If you don’t want to opt for a date night dress, try a fitted pantsuit as another classy dinner outfit idea. The strapless top and wide leg trousers of this suit are flattering on a large variety of body types and simple heels will elongate your legs.
Date Night Outfit For: first date, dinner, classy dinner, drinks at a bar, happy hour, summer date night
Accessory tip: Keep your clutch simple (like the one that we chose above) or add a pop of color with a bright bag or a beaded clutch.
More Inspiration:
For a more demure option, this fitted dress draws all the attention to your waist, with flirty ruffled sleeves for added detail. Keep it simple elsewhere with a chic wool coat and strappy heels—but give the outfit some sparkle with statement earrings!
A classy dinner date doesn’t always mean that you have to pull your fanciest dress out of the closet. Instead, you could opt for a classic combination of neutral tans and browns. This turtleneck dress is flattering, while the tall boots and bag give it a rich, understated look.
What to Wear For Happy Hour Drinks
Shop: Faux Leather Pants | Tank | Black Bag | Loafers | Earrings
A happy hour date is a unique time that could be a standalone date or transition into dinner or going out, as well. When you’re deciding what to wear to a bar, you want to be ready for anything! We love this look that is both a combination of dressy (faux leather pants are a really fun choice!) and a simple sweater tank. You can easily switch your shoes for a dressier option, such as ankle strap heels, or a more casual version, such as boots or loafers. With this neutral look, you can easily play around with accessories and bags!
Date Night Outfit For: dinner, drinks at a bar, happy hour, going out outfit, fancy casual dinner
Accessory tip: Add a black blazer over top for a menswear inspired look.
More Inspiration:
We love the shape that’s created with a perfect-fitting pair of jeans and a bodysuit. Top it off with an oversized blazer—it can be a coat in cooler weather or a way to add structure and layers to your outfit. Topped with a few light accessories, this is a perfect daytime-meets-dinner time outfit.
What To Wear For a Night Out Dancing
Shop: Dress | Faux Leather Jacket | Boots | Beaded Handbag
A night out dancing in a night club or concert venue calls for a fun, yet versatile look. While many date night dresses might be longer or more subdued, an outfit for going out is a great time to try a shorter dress (but not too revealing!) or a sparkly fabric. When choosing which shoes to wear, remember: as the night wears on, high heels can start to become uncomfortable on your feet. That’s why we love a chic pair of booties that not only look good, but feel good, as well. And don’t forget a faux leather jacket—ending the night freezing on the way home can spoil a good time.
Date Night Outfit For: concert date, dinner, summer date night, drinks at a bar, going out outfit
More Inspiration:
Shop:
Faux Leather Trench |
Tank |
Skirt |
Earrings
We say, keep the sequins! But, if you would prefer to have a mix-and-match style outfit in your wardrobe, pair a sequined top with a satin skirt. Together these two items make for a fun nighttime look and let’s you keep the rhythm going all night long. Flat, heels, or boots, the choice is yours for whatever you are most comfortable in!
What to Wear To The Apple Orchard (Or An Outdoor Date)
Shop: Dress | Knee High Boots | Earrings | Rings
Just like a vineyard or any outdoor dates, a cute date outfit needs to find the perfect balance between comfortable, yet stylish. This vintage-inspired dress is simple, yet appropriate for a variety of outdoor occasions and activities. Tall knee high boots are easy to walk in and can provided added warmth if your date is in the cooler fall months. Plus, this casual date outfit can transition right into a date night dress for dinner or a movie.
Date Night Outfit For: first date, dinner, outdoor date, casual dinner, coffee date, movie night
Accessory tip: Adding a wool coat can make this outfit feel dressier, while adding a moto jacket can make it feel a bit edgier.
More Inspiration:
Shop:
Jumpsuit |
Boots |
Sunglasses |
Tote
Jumpsuits are having a moment right now and we love it! While you might initially think that you’re going to end up looking like a mechanic, a jumpsuit can take all of the thought out of your outfit and give you a simple, ready-to-go look. All you have to do is focus on wearing your favorite accessories.
What to Wear To A Concert
Shop: Blazer | Shorts | Bodysuit | Sunglasses | Chain Handbag | Chunky Loafers
A concert is a fun time to get a bit edgier with your look. This matching two piece set is a fun combination of trouser shorts and oversized blazer. Since the proportions of the matching set are both bigger, we went with a tailored bodysuit to streamline the entire look. Fun accessories, such as a snakeskin bag or oversized sunglasses, complete the look. Not only are loafers a different option for this look, they ensure that you can stand on your feet and enjoy the music all night long!
Date Night Outfit For: concert date, dinner, drinks at a bar, happy hour, going out date
Accessory tip: If you want to show a bit of skin, wear a crop top underneath the blazer. Paired with the high waisted shorts, it will only show a tiny sliver of skin, but still be a fun way to add interest to the whole look.
more Inspiration:
For a more casual concert or festival, there is nothing simpler than a great white tee and jeans. Since you’ll be walking around, it’s best to keep your shoes flat and easy to walk in. (Going to be outside? Opt for a pair of black Converse so that you don’t have to worry about ruining the white!) And since you’ll want your hands free to wave them in the air, a belt bag worn crossbody keeps your belongings safe and close by.
What to Wear To Play Mini Golf
Shop: Dress | Earrings | White Sneakers | Belt Bag
Mini golf is all about being outdoors and having fun in a casual and relaxed atmosphere. Flat shoes, such as these white sneakers, are critical as you are standing on putting greens that are meant to be challenging and unbalanced. A knit dress feels dressed up, but still allows you to make sure that you can beat your partner in any hole of golf! Plus, a neon belt bag is the perfect place to store scorecards and pencils! This outfit can also be easily re-styled with a coat and boots for a variety of winter dress outfits!
Date Night Outfit Idea For: first date, dinner, casual dinner, summer date, outdoors date, coffee date, movie night
More Inspiration:
For a preppy golf look, lean into the tennis skirt trend and pair it with a sweater and baseball cap to keep it relaxed. Since the outfit is ultra-casual, dress it up with your favorite retro-inspired sneakers.
What to Wear To An Elegant Dinner Party
This is the occasion to rock your favorite little black dress. Sleek and stunning, this date night dress is an elegant option for a variety of events, whether the party is a formal gathering or a charity event. Make the dress the star of the show by keeping your heels and accessories simple.
Date Night Outfit For: first date, dinner date, drinks at a bar, classy dinner, formal event
More Inspiration:
There’s nothing that says an event can’t use a bit of pattern. Another chic, yet gorgeous dress that you’ll wear on repeat, this classic combination of pumps and a wool coat complete the look. Not only can you wear this on a date, this would be the perfect wedding guest dress for an evening wedding.
For a unique take on a traditional dress and heels, why not opt for the jumpsuit look in your evening wear? Not only will the pants provide additional coverage (and warmth!) during the cooler months, but the halter top neckline is perfect for showing off those shoulders!
What to Wear To The Pumpkin Patch
Shop: Wrap Cardigan | Boots | Jeans | Belt | Gold Ring | Twist Ring
Much like an apple orchard, picnic, or other outdoor date, make sure to research the location and weather before you go. This outfit is perfect for fall with a cropped, yet ultra-soft wrap sweater, light wash jeans and leather belt. Tall boots can be paired with jeans to be an easy to walk in, festive date night outfit for fall. We can smell the pumpkin spice already!
Date Night Outfit For: first date, casual dinner date, movie date, coffee date, outdoor date
Accessory tip: If you are in need of added warmth, you can use the suede moto jacket from our movie date night look!
More Inspiration:
If you’re not a fan of the warm hue of tan, you can always transition your outdoor look into the cooler tones of gray. This look keeps the interest on the coat, with a muted sweater and light wash pair of jeans. After all, if you’re spending time outdoors, who wouldn’t want a great coat?
What to Wear To The Botanical Gardens
This floral print dress is ultra feminine, yet takes the guesswork out of deciding what to wear. The ruffled hem and delicate straps give the look shape and interest, so keep your jewelry simple. A comfortable-to-walk-in pair of heels and a classic bag complete the look.
Date Night Outfit For: first date, casual dinner, coffee date, outdoor date
Accessory tip: Add a scarf to your hair as a headband or wrapped around a pony tail!
More Inspiration:
Neutral tones fit right in with the vibrant gardens. Take a cue from nature with green trousers and a breezy white shirt.
What to Wear When Coming Straight From Work
Sometimes, we can’t avoid a date night that isn’t straight from the office, especially if you are looking at a long commute home to change. This look transitions quickly and easily into happy hour drinks by combining wide leg trousers and a simple blouse. If heels aren’t frequently in your business casual work wardrobe, simply swap these out when it’s time to head out to your date night.
Date Night Outfit For: casual dinner date, coffee date, drinks at a bar
Accessory tip: You can always pair this look with the black blazer we styled above or spruce up the look with a pair of statement earrings.
More Inspiration:
Another just-left-work look, this combines a puff-sleeved blouse as the focal point. While still professional for the office, the extra romantic details will be perfect for a date night, too.
Tips and tricks for finding your perfect date night outfit
Now that you know what to wear—it’s time to finish off the look with a few final touches! Of course, if you feel like your outfit is already complete, skip this section, put on a smile, and have fun!
Date Night Outfit Ideas - 10 fab ways to finish off your look
1. A bold red lip adds instant glamour to any outfit, festival or formal occasion
2. Layer up for a more comfortable outfit with a denim jacket and chunky scarf
3. A pair of statement earrings really brings attention to your face and eye color
4. A cute necklace or headband can add flair to any outfit—tie in the rest of the look for extra points!
5. If you're going to an event where it might be chilly, don't forget about a cute pair of gloves
6. A belt is the perfect way to add some definition to your outfit, especially a bulky sweater or long trousers.
7. Tights can make legs look longer and more defined or they can be a great way to add a bit of texture or dimension to your outfit.
8. Wedge or chunky heels are the most comfortable option when it comes to adding height.
9. A cute handbag or clutch can be used time and time again, just make sure that it matches your overall ensemble!
10. Makeup should always complement your outfit. Just like accessories, feel free to experiment and highlight your favorite features or styles, but make sure that they complete, not compete with the look.
Now there is nothing left but to go out and have fun!