Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and we’re excited about the ‘love is in the air’ fever that seems to strike everyone as February approaches. Whether you are a fan of grand gestures or prefer intimate dates, looking your best on date nights not only makes your partner feel special but also gives you a boost of confidence. Along with the aesthetics, you also need to prioritise comfort, dress for the occasion, and feel like yourself in the outfit you pick.
To ensure you have all the inspo you need for Valentine week, we have outfit ideas for every possible kind of date. From first-date classics like dinners and movies to going for casual walks and even cosy nights at home, we’ve got you covered. No matter what you and your partner have planned around Valentine’s Day (and the rest of the year), we promise you an outfit idea for it here.
Romantic Dinners
Romantic restaurants are a common choice for dates because of the intimate setting. A slip dress is a classic option that will hug your curves and look sensuous while allowing some room to breathe. Styling it with a trendy jacket will take the outfit to the next level – a big plus on functionality when it gets cold (It’s 2024, we’re saying goodbye to the cliche ‘borrowing your boyfriend’s jacket’ moment). Black is a go-to but you can pick any colour (like red – trendy plus it’s the colour of love) and minimal prints. You can also add a contrasting pop of colour with sensible heels and complete the look with a sling or clutch bag.
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Dancing the Night Away
Shanaya Kapoor serves major goals in this red co-ord vest top and trousers. It is an ideal option if you’re going out dancing as trousers take away the hassle of fixing your dress. If you don’t like red, pink and pastel orange will help you turn heads on the dance floor. You could swap the vest top for a strappy camisole or corset top. While Shanaya keeps the jewellery minimal, you can add bling to this outfit with statement earrings. Pro tip: For a night of dancing, opt for footwear options like boots, embellished sneakers, or the relatively comfy wedge heels.
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Spontaneous Happy Hours
For spontaneous or mid-week dates, having transitional outfit options is a must. Priyanka Chopra exudes elegance in a black top and polka dot print flared pants during an outing with Nick Jonas. This outfit will be perfect if you’re grabbing drinks with your beau or going to a wine bar right after work. You can switch the trousers for a printed skirt for an even more romantic look. To take it from AM to PM, add red lipstick and minimal accessories.
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Concert Babe
Bonding with your partner over the same artists is a special feeling. If a live music show, festival, or concert is on the cards, you cannot go wrong with a band t-shirt. If you can’t find a t-shirt or tank top for the artist of your choice, buy one with retro prints that can also be used for multiple events. While Kendall Jenner pairs the tank with fitted pants, you can also go for velvet joggers or flared trousers. Similarly, you can choose red or brown boots that can be easily styled with other outfits, too.
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Movie Date
While we’re big fans of going to the movies in the comfiest possible clothes, it’s acceptable to dress up sometimes, too (especially around V-day). Wearing a satin shirt and trousers to the movies is a big yes. The chic outfit is roomy and gives enough coverage if you get cold in movie halls. It is elegance and comfort neatly wrapped up in a seemingly luxurious look. If you’re going for dinner before or after, pair this outfit with heels and gold jewellery for an elevated look. If you wish to keep it casual, style a satin shirt with denim jeans, a leather jacket, and sneakers.
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Buddy Reading
While restaurants and pubs are fun, bonding over books is an underrated date night idea that is also budget-friendly. If you and your partner love to read, and want this is a sign to take them to the closest library, book store, or quaint lil book cafe. Outfit wise, opting for something academia-inspired is a big yes. Think pleated skirts, plaid fabrics, sweater vests, and argyle prints. Remember to keep the colours muted and go for tones like brown, beige, rust, grey, and black. If you’re going for the dark-academia aesthetic, might we suggest Jenna Ortega’s Wednesday-nspired makeup?
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Intimate Walks
The white t-shirt and denim jeans are a tried and tested pairing. However, you can recreate the easy-going outfit with a trendy flair by wearing a white corset top and flared denim pants. The fitted corset top will flaunt your curves, while the puffy sleeves will add a touch of romance. This outfit is ideal for long walks at parks or by the beach, or even just grabbing ice cream. You can either wear solid white sneakers for the clean look or go for sneakers with embellishments and embroidery details to add a splash of colour.
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Bowling Night
For casual dates like bowling or arcade day, it’s best to opt for outfits that will let you move around and play without feeling restricted. Wearing a crop top, baggy cargos, and an oversized shirt will help you achieve an easy-going retro look, making you look cool as you show off your skills. You can swap the oversized shirt for a denim or varsity jacket or a zip-up hoodie if you need to dress for colder weather.
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For Staying In
Whether you are just getting to know your partner or have been married for a while, at-home dates are intimate and give you the chance to connect without distractions. While dressing up is optional when staying in for date night, we recommend a comfy co-ord set. Whether you are cooking together, playing board games, or Netflix-and-chilling (wink, wink), co-ords need minimal styling and will make you look great in candid pics from the night.
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Watching Plays
If the two of you share a love for dramatic performances and gripping storytelling, going for plays is a must. The thrill of watching the story unfold and the shared memories of plot twists will be something you will never forget and discuss for years to come. You can use this opportunity to show off your desi side by wearing a flowy romantic kurta with a twist of baggy pants and sneakers. Accessorise with oxidised jewellery such as jhumkas and imagine you’re living the life where your partner is serenading you with Chand Baliyan (2020) – being ‘delulu,’ as Gen Z would put it.
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Party of One
We promised 10 date night outfits and we delivered, but let’s not forget the most important person you need to pamper – yourself. Regardless of your relationship status or if you celebrate Valentine’s Day, a self-care date is the most important of all dates. Get into comfy PJs, grab a glass of wine, and snuggle with your favourite book. Or take yourself out for dinner or shopping! You can also put your skin-care products to good use, or try out new wellness trends like face yoga.
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We hope you’re all prepared to take on date night. We understand it’s easy to overdo and get carried away while trying to put your best foot forward. Remember that while dressing to impress is important, staying comfortable and being in your element are also factors to consider, especially if it’s a first date. You should be yourself and let your outfit reflect your personal style. Hope you have a great Valentine week!