6 Perfect Date-Night Outfit Ideas
by Mara Miller Johnson
Here’s what to wear for your next rendezvous.
Date-night outfitting can reduce even the most style-savvy of us to a bundle of nerves. Whether it’s your first date or your thousandth, nothing is more essential to a good time than feeling great in your own skin – not to mention in your clothes. To help, we’ve curated an assortment of looks for your next romantic occasion, whether you’re planning to share sips, catch a movie, or conquer the trails.
1. Romantic Dinner Date
No matter what kind of romantic you are, love for a good meal is something we all share. And for evenings of wining and dining, only the most sophisticated ensembles will do. We’re smitten with the look of a tailored blazer over a silky midi dress or jumpsuit, styled with hoop earrings or bangles. Stick with easy-to-layer pieces to accommodate any post-dinner adventures – a walk to the ice cream parlor, for instance, or a seaside stroll.
2. Casual Dinner & Drinks
When it comes to matters of the appetite, some of us prefer a more laidback menu, like burgers, tapas, or a happy hour pint. A casual outing calls for the kind of effortless elegance we love most at Anthropologie – try a mini dress or your favorite slip dress topped with a sporty moto jacket, or a go-to peasant blouse paired with polished jeans. Complete the look with a pair of ankle boots or wedges for a nonchalant-yet-stylish ensemble.
3. Daytime Date
For daytime dates (think “let’s grab coffee!”), go with something breezy and versatile – after all, who knows where the day will take you? For lunch or brunch outings, you can’t go wrong with a healthy balance of style and adaptability. Consider a casual dress or romper paired with your favorite off-duty sneakers. Prefer an elevated twist? A lightweight sweater and sweeping skirt will take you into the evening hours with ease.
4. Movie Date
When it comes to moviegoing, we crave comfort (and popcorn) above all. Avoid styles that demand tugging or adjusting – this is a perfect occasion for denim. Or, for a more feminine look, try a colorful maxi dress with your favorite heeled sandals or flats, ideal for the transition to post-theater drinks. And remember: Those theaters can get chilly, so bring a denim jacket or sweatshirt to avoid getting goosebumps.
5. Outdoorsy Date
Outdoor dates are a breath of fresh air for the adventurers among us. But there’s nothing worse than being stranded outside sans proper layers, so be sure to check the weather and bring pieces designed for varying conditions. For a stroll in the park, opt for an adventure-ready tunic and a lightweight jacket. For hikes, bikes, and beyond, your go-tos are weather boots or sneakers and breathable, adventure-ready layers.
6. Concert Date
When selecting concert attire, consider the venue and crowd you’ll be dressing for. Will you be seated, standing, or dancing? (All three, perhaps?) A concert is the perfect setting to show off your edgy side – consider mixing fun prints like leopard spots or snakeskin into your ensemble, or rocking a leather jacket, graphic tee, and distressed jeans. We’d recommend a clutch or small crossbody bag for your tickets, phone, wallet, and a tube of touch-up lipstick.