Dinner dates can be exciting but also nerve-wracking when trying to figure out what to wear. Choosing an outfit for a dinner date requires thinking about the restaurant ambience, your personal style, and what will make you feel confident and comfortable. This article will break down how to choose the perfect dinner date outfit.
Consider the restaurant
The most important factor when deciding what to wear on a dinner date is the formality and atmosphere of the restaurant. Consider the following:
- Fine dining establishment: Opt for cocktail attire – dresses, heels, blazers, button-ups, trousers.
- Casual restaurant: Nice jeans or slacks with a blouse, sweater, or jacket are appropriate.
- Outdoor/beachside setting: Choose a casual sundress, skirt, or shorts.
Research the restaurant ahead of time so you can gauge the appropriate dress code. When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than under-dressed. For a first date, avoid wearing anything too revealing or sloppy. You want to look classy and put-together.
Base it off your personal style
While considering the venue, also think about choosing an outfit that aligns with your personal style. Pick items that flatter your body type and that you feel attractive and comfortable in.
Some style tips for a dinner date outfit:
- Little black dress: A LBD is versatile for any restaurant and universally flattering.
- Dark denim: Pair nice dark jeans with heels and a silky camisole or blazer for an edgy vibe.
- Jumpsuit: A dressy jumpsuit can be just as elegant as a cocktail dress.
- Accessorize: Statement jewelry, heels, and a clutch add polish to any outfit.
- Show your style: Wear pieces that express your personal tastes – a leather jacket, fun prints, trendy shoes.
Aim to look like the best version of yourself. Wear an outfit that gives you confidence and makes you feel your best.
Consider dress codes
Some formal restaurants have strict dress codes, such as “black tie”, “cocktail attire”, or “business casual”. Make sure you understand the code before showing up under or overdressed.
Here are some common dress code styles:
| Dress code | What to wear |
|---|---|
| Black tie | Evening gown, cocktail dress, dressy jumpsuit for women. Tuxedo for men. |
| Cocktail attire | Cocktail dress, dressy separates like a skirt and blouse. |
| Business casual | Dress pants, skirt, or dress with a blouse or sweater. Avoid jeans or shorts. |
When in doubt, call the restaurant ahead of time and ask what they recommend wearing. They’ll clarify their dress code.
Pick the right fabrics
Fabric choice can elevate a simple dinner date outfit. Avoid fabrics that wrinkle easily, are too revealing, or show stains. Recommended fabrics include:
- Cotton – A breathable and versatile choice, great for sundresses or blouses.
- Linen – Lightweight and perfect for summer date nights.
- Silk – Luxurious and drapey, ideal for cocktail dresses or blouses.
- Velvet – Elegant texture for cooler weather dates.
- Lace – Feminine and romantic when used sparingly.
- Leather/Faux Leather – Edgy vibe that holds its shape well.
Stay away from fabrics like polyester, fleece, sweatshirts, or anything too casual. Fabrics with some stretch like ponte knit can hug curves nicely.
Pick date-night worthy accessories
The right accessories can make or break a dinner date outfit. Avoid accessories that are damaged, worn out, or inappropriate for evening.
Recommended accessories:
- Handbag – A chic clutch or handbag that matches your outfit.
- Shoes – Heels or dressy flats. Make sure they are comfortable.
- Jewelry – Limit jewelry to tasteful statement pieces. Avoid loud, distracting accessories.
- Coat or shawl – Have something to stay warm like a blazer, leather jacket, or pashmina shawl.
- Watch – A nice watch adds polish.
- Fragrance – Wear a 1-2 sprays of a light, sexy perfume.
Skip the backpack, running shoes, or anything with visible branding logos. Accessorize thoughtfully to complement your overall ensemble.
Groom yourself properly
Looking polished on a dinner date also requires properly grooming yourself from head to toe:
- Hair – Clean and styled hair is a must. Blow dry, use product, and style it neatly.
- Makeup – Apply makeup that enhances your features. Skip anything overly dramatic.
- Nails – Neatly trimmed nails with neutral or light pink polish look great.
- Skin – Exfoliate and moisturize so your skin glows.
- Teeth – Brush and whiten your teeth.
- Scent – Shower, deodorize, wear fragrance. Good hygiene is key.
- Shave – Shave your legs and underarms for a polished finish.
Pay attention to the small details – clip hangnails, tidy eyebrows, etc. Look and smell your absolute best from head to toe. A good grooming routine shows you take care of yourself.
How to dress for the weather
Don’t let cold weather or rain ruin your date night outfit. Come prepared to dress properly for the weather:
- Cold weather – Layer tights under your dress or skirt. Bring a coat that complements your outfit.
- Rainy weather – Bring a compact foldable umbrella that fits in your bag. Water-resistant shoes are a plus.
- Hot weather – Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Skip shapewear if it will be too hot.
- Outdoor seating – If dining al fresco, bring a pashmina or jean jacket in case it gets chilly.
Check the forecast and temperatures. Have back-up options if the weather takes a surprise turn. A little planning goes a long way towards keeping you comfortable and chic no matter the weather.
What to wear from day to night
Many dinner dates start in the late afternoon or early evening. It can be tricky figuring out how to transition your outfit from day to night seamlessly. Here are some tips:
- Pack a change of shoes – Swap daytime flats for evening heels.
- Accessories – Add statement jewelry and an evening clutch.
- Change tops – Pair a casual daytime tank with dress pants, then switch to a silky cami or wrap blouse for dinner.
- Bring layers – Throw a jacket, leather jacket, or dressy sweater over your daytime outfit.
- Touch up hair & makeup – Refresh your look for an evening vibe.
With the right versatile pieces, you can easily go from a daytime jeans and tee look to a nighttime skirt and heels ensemble. A few small tweaks and additions can make your outfit dining-ready.
What to wear for dates at different ages
Your dinner date attire may vary depending on your age and life stage. Here are some tips:
| Age Range | Date Outfit Ideas |
|---|---|
| 20s | Flirty mini dress, jumpsuit, dressy separates like a cropped cami and skirt. |
| 30s | Cocktail dress, wrap dress, ankle trousers with heels. |
| 40s | Slim cut pencil skirt, sheath dress, structured blazer over a silk tank. |
| 50+ | Maxi dress, evening pantsuit, elegant blouse with nice slacks. |
The key is sticking to ensembles that are youthful and chic without being overly revealing or aging. Know what silhouettes flatter your figure at your age. Ask the restaurant for guidance if unsure what is appropriate.
Confidence is key
The most important part of choosing a dinner date outfit is wearing something you feel confident and comfortable in. Have fun with your look instead of agonizing over finding the “perfect” option. Confidence and smiling will leave the best impression – not your outfit alone.
If you love your look and it aligns with the restaurant dress code, then you will wow on your dinner date. Relax knowing you put thought into your appearance. With the right preparation, you will look and feel your best for dinner and drinks with your date.
Conclusion
Choosing what to wear for dinner dates may seem complicated, but just remember these key points:
- Consider the restaurant ambience and dress code
- Pick an outfit that flatters you and suits your personal style
- Accessorize thoughtfully and avoid anything too worn, casual, or loud
- Groom yourself from head to toe – hair, makeup, nails, scent
- Come prepared for the weather with layers and umbrellas
- Have options to transition your look from day to night
- Wear ensembles appropriate for your age that make you feel confident
The most important thing is feeling comfortable, confident, and classy. With the right dinner date outfit, you will impress your date and have an unforgettable evening together.