7 Low-Key Yet Chic Outfits That Are Ideal for a First Date
Getting ready for a first date can be nerve-racking, but we've found seven casual first-date outfits that will help you get a second.
Casual first-date outfits can be hard to assemble, as they're so dependent on the activity. If we're talking "casual" in the truest sense, it could be anything from a walk in the park to a drink at the pub, a mini-golf session or brunch. Or, unless you've been involved in the planning, you might not even be 100% sure what's on the agenda.
But fret not, for we've rustled up a handful of incredibly stylish casual first-date outfits that strike the perfect balance between well-dressed and cool, so you can focus more on making a meaningful connection as opposed to spending the run-up worrying about what you're going to wear.
The most important thing you need to consider about your first-date outfit is whether it'll make you feel comfortable and confident, and below are seven outfits we believe are just that. Chances are you'll even be able to pull them together from pieces already in your capsule wardrobe. However, should you find yourself missing an essential item, we've also shopped out each look for you. Have fun!
7 Casual Outfits That Will Get You a Second Date
1. Lace Top + Jeans + Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: Jeans and a nice top is a fail-safe formula whenever, but if you’re looking to create a first-date outfit that sticks, why not opt for a pretty lace blouse? With a soft, romantic allure, grounding it with jeans lets you create a polished outfit that isn't overdone.
Shop the Look:
Shop Kristin Cabatingan's exact lace top (pictured above).
A Who What Wear UK editor favourite.
I'll always advise you to size up in Reformation shoes.
Wooden beaded bags have been everywhere this summer.
These would also look chic with a linen dress and loafers.
2. Cropped T-Shirt + Flared Trousers + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: On my first day date with my boyfriend, I wore flared trousers with a baby tee, so it's a look close to my heart. It's perfect for strolling around or grabbing a quick bite to eat, and if you want your look to be memorable, be sure to choose a top in a vibrant colour, as Marianne Smyth has here.
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This style also comes in baby pink, black and white.
The perfect cropped flare to transition from summer to autumn.
These look so more expensive than £45.
The Row's Peggy bag (which Marianne is carrying) is sold out everywhere, but the Dalia is just as stylish.
My favourite pair of oval-shaped designer sunnies.
3. Headscarf + Lace-Trim Maxi Dress + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: If an upscale wine bar or quiet gallery stroll is on the agenda, an elegant all-white outfit will serve you well. Take style cues from Nnenna Echem (pictured above) and style a breezy maxi dress with a functional ballet flat and cute headscarf ahead of your culture-filled day out.
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You'll pull out this timeless dress each and every summer.
This is such a good price for a pair of leather ballet flats.
The textured finish adds interest to an otherwise simple black bag.
It's not time to pack away your beaded jewellery just yet.
Headscarves have been all over my social media feed this summer.
4. Tank Top + Bermuda Shorts + Thong Sandals
Style Notes: If you’re not a fan of dresses but are heading out on a warmer day, a lightweight pair of Bermuda shorts will be your best bet. Using her fitted tank top and sleek belt to polish her relaxed pair, Magdalena Maria Gontarz creates a look which feels grown-up yet totally chilled.
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All my favourite fashion people wear by this ribbed tank.
How chic do these look in an all-black outfit?!
A light jumper will be your best friend if you're still out when the temperature cools.
These look almost identical to Magdalena's own.
Whilst her DeMellier bag is sold out in brown, the black is still available.
5. T-shirt + Midi Skirt + Sandals
Style Notes: A white T-shirt really is the ultimate wardrobe staple. Simple and so versatile, polish it with a pretty eyelet midi skirt and thick-strap thong sandals for a perfect warm-weather first-date look.
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This is the specific white tee all our editors love the most.
This would also pair well with a loose shirt and loafers during the transitional period.
Simple, chic and versatile.
Sculptural, softly shaped and easy to grab and go: the ultimate everyday handbag does exist!
Don't overlook the appeal of a simple silver bangle; it's an easy way to instantly elevate an outfit.
6. Halterneck Top + Bermuda Shorts + Flip-Flops
Style Notes: Personally, I find all-black outfits inherently cooler and even a little chicer than white, especially when dressing for a first date. For a relaxed finish, lean into playful silhouettes like Gabrielle Luksaite has done here. Her black beaded halterneck top and knee-skimming Bermuda shorts feel relaxed rather than overly styled.
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This has been on my wish list for some time.
This is exactly how I'll be dressing for the foreseeable.
These timeless sandals are available in UK sizes 2–9.
I have a feeling that this luxury-looking bag won't be around for long.
Anklets have become one of the chicest accessories amongst the fashion set this summer.
7. Long-Sleeved T-shirt + Jeans + Sandals
Style Notes: A first date is the prime time to play with colour (pared-back dressers, here's looking at you). But as I said previously, being comfortable with your outfit is key, so an almost-neutral colour palette is your safest bet. Butter-yellow jeans will add a cooler, more personality-driven energy to a simple look with a white Henley T-shirt and black accessories.
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No need to size up, as these have a naturally oversized fit.
This top has been all over my social media feed.
Next is one of my favourite places to shop for affordable footwear.
Throw this on with jeans or a midi dress this season.
If it's good enough for Alexa Chung....
