Date nights are a great way to meet someone new, develop a budding relationship, or even keep the romance alive in a long-term relationship. However, when it comes to finding something to wear for date night, things can get a little bit stressful, especially if you’re going on a first date. Here is a quick breakdown of what to wear for date night:
First Dates
First dates are especially tough because you really don’t know what to expect, but you also want to make a good impression. If you’re going on a first date, pick a place where you and your partner both feel comfortable, and if you’re the one planning, let your partner know what’s in store.
Confirming the Atmosphere
If you know where you’re going, you probably already have an idea of what to wear. However, if your date is picking you up or planning a surprise, it may be a good idea to ask about how you should dress.
If you’re the one planning the date, you want your partner to have an idea of what to wear. Remember that while surprises can be fun and romantic, you also want you and your partner to both feel comfortable throughout the date.
What to Wear on Casual Dates
Whether you’re going to the park, getting together to watch Netflix, or enjoying an outdoor concert, casual dates can be a lot of fun. The goal for casual dates is to be polished but relaxed, regardless of whether you’re a man or a woman.
For Women: Denim and other casual fabrics are perfect for casual dates, but you might want to upgrade with a slightly dressier top and fun accessories. Remember to wear comfortable shoes if a lot of walking is involved.
For Men: A t-shirt or sweater with jeans and a matching jacket will typically do the trick.
What to Wear to the Movies
The movies are a classic date night location and can be a great first date option. An outfit for the movies can be casual, but you can also be a little bit dressier if you desire.
For Women: Go easy on the denim or swap it out for a leather jacket. You’ll want something that’s polished but isn’t too formal, so skirts and dresses are a possibility as long as you pair them with something casual.
For Men: A collared shirt with a jacket or sweater and pants is appropriate. Pair with jeans or pants depending on personal preference.
What to Wear on Formal Dates
Formal dates such as dinner at a restaurant require you to dress up a little bit more. However, there’s a lot of room for questions depending on the general restaurant atmosphere and your plans after.
For Women: Dresses and skirts are a great option for formal dates. If you don’t feel up to wearing a dress, you can also opt for dress pants and a blazer.
For Men: If you’re not wearing a suit and tie, you should probably be wearing a dress shirt and dress pants.
What to Wear for a Concert
This depends on the nature of the concert. If you’re going to a classical concert indoors, you’ll want to go more formal. On the other hand, if you’re headed for a rock concert or an outdoor event, you’ll want something more casual.
For Women: Break out the combat boots and leather jacket for rock concerts, but opt for a skirt or pants if you’re going to be listening to Tchaikovsky.
For Men: A dress shirt can be appropriate for a classical concert. You can create a more relaxed look by pairing it with casual pants. You can do jeans, combat boots, a t-shirt, and a leather jacket for a rock concert.
What to Wear on Outdoor Dates
There are a lot of options for outdoor dates, but night time does narrow these down. First and foremost, you should make sure that you’re comfortable and warm if you are in a cooler climate.
For Women: A flowy skirt and an understated top can make you look great without making it look like you’re trying. You can also opt for pants or jeans and a flowy top. Just bring a jacket. You’ll also make sure that your footwear is comfortable for the outdoors.
For Men: Pants and a sweater, or a t-shirt and jacket, are a great option. You can even opt for jeans.
What to Wear on Virtual Date
If you’re meeting via Zoom or some other virtual platform, you’re probably going to opt for something casual but polished.
For Women: In this case, the top, as well as your jewelry, will probably matter more than what’s covering your legs simply because your date has a limited view. However, dressing up as though you’re going on a real date might still be fun.
For Men: Opt for a t-shirt or collared shirt for some polish.
General Tips
Here are a few general tips for choosing your date night outfit:
How Should I Dress for a Date Night? You’ll want to find something that feels comfortable, suits the occasion, and matches your personal style. Remember, if you don’t feel good in your own clothes, you probably won’t have much fun on the date.
What Should I Not Wear on a Date? Anything that makes you uncomfortable or is inappropriate. For instance, if you’re going on a beach date, skip the overly fancy shoes and opt for loafers or sandals.
How to Be Sexy on the First Date? Dress for the occasion, wear something you like, and simply enjoy yourself. Being comfortable in your own skin will make you seem confident, which is definitely sexy.
What Colors Should I Avoid for Date Night? Avoid colors that don’t make you look your best. If a color washes you out or clashes with your hair, don’t wear it. Instead, opt for colors that compliment your features.
I’m Not Sure Where the Date Is. What Do I Do? If you’re not sure of the location, ask the person planning the date. If they have a surprise in mind, ask them to tell you how you should dress for the date (i.e., formal, casual, semi-formal, or for the outdoors).
