10 Perfect First-Date Outfits, So You'll Have One Less Thing to Worry About

First dates are as nerve-wracking as they are exciting. You want to make a good impression, and picking out the perfect first-date outfit that you feel and look your best in is the first step. But if the day comes and you’re staring at an open closet in a cold sweat thinking, “I have nothing to wear,” don’t panic. Figuring out what you’re going to wear is actually part of the fun.

When brainstorming your ideal first-date outfit, there are a few key details to consider before you start rifling through your wardrobe and making a mess on your bedroom floor. The first is location. Assuming where you meet isn’t a surprise, look up where you’re going and assess the dress code (if you haven't been there before). If you’re not getting any hints from the venue’s website alone, look them up on social media and see what other people have worn there in the past.

The second thing to keep in mind is what season you’re in and what time of day you’ve agreed on. Winter weather forecasts call for cozy layers, while warm weather months call for cooling materials. Dates that take place during the day are typically more casual than a dinner or even drinks date.

Lastly, think about the clothes that make you feel your best; what makes you feel the most yourself. There is nothing wrong with dressing to impress your date, but a first-date outfit should be comfortable, so you feel comfortable. Still drawing a blank on what to wear for the big event? Don’t stress. We’ve curated a list of first-date outfit ideas so you have one less thing to worry about.

Your Take on the Canadian Tuxedo

You can never go wrong with denim on denim, especially considering that all things '90s fashion are in style (yet again). But whether you go monochromatic with the look or mix and match shades, it's good to add subtle pops of color with your accessories and footwear so your date isn’t feasting their eyes on just jeans.

A Bit of Athleisure

Athleisure teeters the line between workout clothes and ready-to-wear pieces; you can pair jeans with a windbreaker jacket or dress up a sweatshirt and sneakers with a maxiskirt. It's lax, and when you feel at ease, hopefully your date will go a whole lot smoother. Still, we'd keep this option for more low-key spots, like a brewery or ball game.

A Denim Skirt

Denim skirts will never go out of style, but they’re especially on-trend at the moment. You can opt for a traditional style or seek out a statement piece, like the one pictured here, and choose your top accordingly.

A Midi Skirt

Midi skirts are more conservative than minis, but let you show a little leg. With a T-shirt, the look is cute but comfortable; you can make it as formal or casual as you like with your choice of shoes and jewelry.

A Tank and Jeans

When you don’t know what to wear, you can always make an outfit with your favorite pair of jeans, no matter the occasion or the season (that is, if the date isn't super formal — but what first date is?). We love the sleekness of a dark wash jean with a simple white tank, though you could also try a lighter wash with a sleeveless vest as a top. The options are endless, and we guarantee there’s something in your closet you can throw together.

Your Team's Jersey

They’ll know where your loyalty lies sooner or later, right? If you’re meeting at a sports bar or tavern for some light bites, don’t be shy about showing your team spirit. Remember, there are different ways to wear a jersey beyond the typical skinny jeans and sneakers pairing. For instance, you can swap denim for trousers and wear the top open with a tank underneath. 

An Easy Dress

One-and-done ensembles take the guesswork out of piecing together the perfect first-date outfit. Dresses are always a win because they’re versatile. Shifts, slips, and T-shirt dresses are particularly easy to dress up or down, and serve as a foundation for layers, statement outerwear (think bomber jackets and blazers), and all kinds of footwear (i.e. sandals in the summer and knee-high boots in the winter).

A Jumpsuit

Another option to take some of the pressure off when styling your first-date outfit is the jumpsuit. You can opt for a long-sleeve version, short-sleeves, cami straps, or even an overall, in any material that suits your fancy (or the season).

A Statement Top

Casual bottoms make a great foundation for a bolder statement on top. Eye-popping details are key here, so look for colorful embroidery, metallic sequins, fringe, and/or beading. With the pending return of Bridgerton, regencycore is sure to resurface, so anything with peasant or puff sleeves is an immediate yes.

A Little Black Dress

Is it a little cliché? Maybe. Classic? Always. Dust off your favorite LBD, slip on some heels, and swipe on a bold red lip. No doubt you’ll be feeling your best all night long, even if your date goes sour.