There's nothing quite like the mix of excitement and nerves before a first date. And while you might wonder what you'll talk about and whether you’ll make a good impression, the most stressful pre-date worry is landing on the perfect outfit.
To help you decide what to wear on a date, we've done some thorough outfit research. Read on for get-ups that will have you looking and feeling your best, no matter the activity.
The key to dressing for a first date is matching your look to the atmosphere. Whether you're going for casual coffee, a laid-back picnic, or a romantic dinner, your clothes should reflect your personal style and the outing’s setting.
We've compiled a list of 15 outfit ideas for first dates to help you feel confident and make a great impression.
A low-key strolling date calls for a casual but stylish outfit. You want to feel comfortable and look great without going overboard. These options will help you strike the perfect balance.
It doesn’t get much more laid-back than this. Complement your favorite pair of jeans with a simple shirt for a breezy walk in the park. Add a pair of classic white sneakers and complete the look with a light jacket that suits the weather.
When you're feeling a bit more flirty, reach for a flowy maxi dress. Wear it with a cropped denim jacket and flats for a relaxed vibe. If you'll be doing lots of walking, you can also swap the flats for a pair of sneakers. This outfit is perfect for a stroll around the city or a wander through the farmers’ market.
Add a bit more edge to a casual first date with leather. Layer a fitted leather jacket over a white T-shirt and wear your favorite jeans to complete the look. Black loafers or ankle boots keep the outfit classy yet comfortable.
A coffee date at a cute cafe feels slightly more romantic than a walk in the park. That said, we still recommend wearing comfortable shoes in case you extend the date with an impromptu stroll. Here are a few outfit ideas.
Tuck a light, breezy striped blouse into cropped jeans for a put-together look. This outfit is simple to assemble and looks especially great with ballet flats. Add a colorful crossbody or bucket bag for a functional but playful touch.
If you want to look smart and approachable, a fitted turtleneck with a mini skirt is always a great idea. Pair the outfit with clean, minimalist sneakers to keep things comfortable. You can also wear this look with knee-high boots for an edgier take. Since turtlenecks are quite warm, this is an ideal choice for a fall outing.
Grab a macchiato with your latest crush in an oversized sweater and relaxed-fit boyfriend jeans. This ensemble is just elevated enough with chic ankle boots. When your date goes longer than intended, the outfit transitions perfectly for dinner out or an evening on the couch.
If you're wondering what to wear for a first date at the movies, think comfortable but still classy. The following outfits offer enough wiggle room for you to be able to sit back and enjoy the show.
You can't go wrong with a cropped hoodie and high-waisted jeans. Add your go-to sneakers and a mini backpack or small tote bag, and you have the perfect outfit for a casual movie date. Movie theaters can get chilly, so bring a jacket or coat if you want a layer.
Wear a T-shirt dress with a bomber jacket and sneakers for a weekend movie date. This slightly dressier theater look is great for evening showtimes without being too done up. If you're worried about getting cold, swap the sneakers for boots and add a thick pair of tights.
Want to look polished without sacrificing comfort? Pair a chunky knit sweater with your favorite black leggings. Add ankle boots, and you've got a fashionable movie date outfit that's ultra cozy.
Going out to restaurants calls for a more sophisticated look than other casual activities might, so it’s a fun opportunity to show off your upscale style. Here are three outfit ideas sure to impress.
A little black dress is a classic option for a dressy first date at an upscale restaurant. Pair it with strappy heels, bold earrings, and an embellished clutch for an elegant look. If black isn't your thing, try a party dress in a fun color with more understated accessories.
Pro tip: Buy your dress online on ThredUp for a fraction of the retail price.
If you love a dreamy rom-com look, a pleated midi skirt with a flowy blouse is an excellent choice. This feminine outfit is elegant and can be worn with pumps or flats. For cooler evenings, add a fitted blazer.
For a more casual dinner, try a silk top and sharp trousers. Add strappy sandals if it's warm out or heels if you want some lift. A structured purse takes this outfit to the next level.
If your first date involves an outdoorsy activity like hiking or rock climbing, you need a practical outfit that looks great and lets you move. Get inspired from one of these ideas.
A matching athleisure set is trendy and high-performance. Add a lightweight windbreaker or denim jacket to keep you warm, and don't forget to pack a sporty backpack with necessities like snacks and water. Complete the look with a pair of functional sneakers.
Athletic leggings with an oversized sweater is the perfect cool-weather hiking outfit. This look is laid-back without being sloppy and lets you move freely to keep up with your date. Complete the outfit with sturdy hiking boots that provide support for whatever the day has in store.
Wear shorts and a tank top if you're headed to a sunny outdoor spot. Add a flannel in case there's a breeze and choose thick sandals made for walking. You can store your keys and phone in a belt bag to keep your hands free while you adventure.
Choosing the perfect outfit helps you put your best foot forward on a first date. Whether going for a casual coffee or a fancy dinner, dressing to suit the occasion is just one way to look and feel confident.
If you have a date coming up, ThredUp takes the stress out of finding the ideal look. Our platform lets users buy and sell clothes online, with an extensive collection of preloved garments from top brands. Find specific items with our Improved Search feature or use our Style Chat feature for style inspiration. We drop over 5,000 new items daily at up to 90% off typical retail prices.
Explore ThredUp today to build a wardrobe that's sustainable, affordable, and first-date ready.