Your guide to elegant date-night style
Whether your date involves an alfresco picnic, a Zoom dinner or even an adrenaline-pumping hike, leave the wardrobe planning to us
The dinner date
Nothing feels as transformative as a party dress. A contemporary take on a ’50s-inspired style will feel both flirty and feminine – Renaissance Renaissance’s black taffeta number, with its voluminous puffball skirt, is guaranteed to wow your dinner date. Dial up the dress code and pair it with Paco Rabanne’s glitzy chainmail bag and a pair of strappy heels on the night; afterwards, wear with a sweater for a more informal look. For something a little more chilled, look for a plunging neckline that is the perfect counterpoint to a flowing midi skirt. Alexander McQueen’s twist-detail top in an on-theme red is ideal paired with a slinky slip skirt from Anine Bing, or a textural leather skirt from Petar Petrov. A slick of Gucci Beauty red on the lips and gold jewelry will give a luxe finish.
The picnic
In this era of outdoor dining, the picnic has come to the fore as a regular fixture in our social calendars – and a huge part of the charm is dressing for the occasion. Look for bohemian day dresses that give an air of outdoor freedom to capture the mood; Ulla Johnson’s patchwork-print indigo dress, with girlish ruffles and ribbon trims, is just the ticket. Shrug on a warming knit and add a classic trench for an elegant, weather-ready look; stomping boots from Khaite or a classic Chelsea style by Chloé will add an urban feel. Not sure where to pack that all-important feast? Loewe’s basket-style tote bag will prove a worthy accessory.
A sporty expedition
Off on a romantic walk in the countryside? Or perhaps you’ve arranged to pound the pavements around the city parks? Whether you end up on an outdoorsy hike or a low-key alfresco adventure, we’ve got you covered. Both comfort and warmth are essential when channeling your inner explorer, so puffer jackets and woolen sweaters are your golden ticket to remaining cozy yet chic. Wide-legged trousers with combat pockets add a utility feel – balance the silhouette by opting for Rag & Bone’s belted down jacket that cinches the waist. Cross-body bags from Bottega Veneta or Isabel Marant add a sense of ease, while understated sneakers by Veja are both sporty and chic. Complete the look with a luxe cashmere scarf and tonal leather gloves.
The Zoom date
Dating remotely this year? In the age of Zoom, comfort might be king, but that doesn’t mean your outfit needs to be any less polished. For instant elegance, choose soft and supple silks – button-up shirts by 16Arlington or sweeping maxi dresses from Rejina Pyo are an ideal combination of sleek and slinky. Puffed sleeves, meanwhile, offer a sense of occasion across the distance – Cecilie Bahnsen’s cotton-taffeta top is supremely decadent and yet voluminously comfy. Pair with statement pearl jewelry that can be seen from the screen, and create your own ambience by lighting a Fornasetti candle in your favorite scent. And if your date carries on into the early hours, you can slip into Olivia von Halle’s slinky pajamas — they promise you’ll look suitably glamorous even when you’re ready for bed.