Date Night Outfit Ideas

Whether you're going out for dinner with your partner, a first date or a laid-back brunch, we've got all the outfit inspiration you need

Content editor

Sarah Lafarge

Woman wearing olive green chiffon maxi dress at M&S

What to wear to a dinner date

If you've got a dinner date on the horizon, and can't decide what to wear, a dress is the simplest way to get your outfit on point. It's an instant head-to-toe fix, whether you choose a flowing tea dress, flattering wrap-style dress or a slinky bodycon dress. Use accessories to dial up or down depending on the venue.

Tap into spring's soft muted shades, which can often be more flattering than darker colours such as black. We love this olive green dress's effortlessly romantic frills and tiers, long billowing sleeves and flattering tie-waist. Pair with boho-style suede boots as a more relaxed alternative to heels.

If you don't fancy wearing a dress, investing in a luxurious silk shirt could be the answer. Wear it to elevate jeans, wide-leg trousers or team with a sweeping maxi skirt. Undo the first few buttons and half tuck for a relaxed, yet elegant take on dinner date dressing. This cream iteration by Autograph is one of our favourites.

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Woman wearing grey off the shoulder jumper and faux leather wrap skirt

What to wear to a first date

A first date can be a nerve-wracking affair, so making sure that what you wear makes you feel confident is key. Now is not the time for wearing anything that sits wildly outside your comfort zone.

A midaxi skirt is the ideal choice, whether you're meeting for a casual brunch or a more formal dinner date. Choose one that raises the bar slightly, such as this versatile faux leather skirt, but is still comfortable so you can focus on getting to know your date. The flattering wrap-style design and pleated detailing elevates it to date-worthy wear. For day team with a soft and tactile knit - this off-the-shoulder jumper for example - and then vamp up for evening plans with a lace camisole or semi-sheer blouse.

Footwear is another key consideration. Heels may seem like the obvious choice for wearing on a date, but avoid if they're not comfortable as sore feet could dampen the mood. A low kitten heel is a good option, or try boots with a small heel.

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Woman wearing straight-leg jeans and white shirt at M&S

Daytime date outfits

A day-time date instantly feels more casual, but you still need to plan your outfit just as carefully, especially if it needs to transition from day to night. Jeans are your go-to here and the easiest way to segue from day to evening dressing. Choose a classic straight-leg in a dark indigo wash, or try our horseshoe or barrel-leg jeans for a contemporary silhouette.

Keep things pared back by teaming with a classic white shirt (look for one that has subtle details to add interest), using it as a blank canvas to showcase a statement necklace or earrings. Style with striking footwear, such as these leopard-print kitten heels to elevate for evening plans.

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Our favourite date night accessories