The sun is shining, the days are longer, and you already know this is my favorite time of year. There’s something about warm weather that just brings out my best self. Skin is glowing, the wardrobe gets a little sassier, and when a date night pops up on the calendar? Instant excitement. Now, if you’re anything like me, looking your best is part of the fun. And when it comes to date night, a little planning goes a long way. So let’s talk about what to wear for date night, and how I got polished and pretty for a summer nights with my man; complete with a head-turning hairstyle, a sexy-but-classy dress, and skin that looked just as good as it felt.
Start with the Vibe: Where Are You Going?
Before you pull anything out of your closet, you need to know the date night vibe. Is it dinner and rooftop cocktails? A jazz lounge? A surprise? Even if you don’t know the exact location, get a feel for the energy, because the right outfit starts with the right setting. For this night, we were headed to an Orchestra Noir performance. When I hear orchestra, I immediately think black tie, elegance, and soft, subtle glam with a little edge, so I planned accordingly.
Hair First, Always
Let’s be real, the girls stay booked. So my hair appointment was locked in advance. I chose a classic style that’s making a modern comeback: the French roll. I wanted mine big and full with that effortless, flowey look. Quick tip: this style is gorgeous but not built for longevity. You might get one to two days max, so don’t say I didn’t warn you. It’s not giving low-maintenance, but it is giving timeless glamour.
Nail Game = Non-Negotiable
Clean, polished nails are a must, no exceptions. I’m a natural nail girl, so I did mine at home the night before with a fresh coat of polish. But if you’re into length and salon vibes without salon prices, press-ons have entered the chat. Now, let me tell you, the new press-ons are not the ones from the ‘90s. These new age press-ons are giving “I just walked out of an appointment and these nails are growing straight from the nail bed. “ Affordable, cute, and easy? Yes, please.
Grooming Check: Head to Toe
Let’s talk grooming. Whether you shave or wax, make sure everything’s smooth and tidy, especially your underarms and any surprise chin or upper lip hairs. Yes, girl, we all have that little mustache. Clean it up before the date. No judgment, just facts.
The Look: Sexy & Sophisticated
Since we were headed somewhere elegant, I went with a floor-length black cut-out dress; classy with just the right amount of skin showing. It hugged my shape, complemented my updo, and felt like that perfect blend of polished and pretty. Pro tip: whenever your trying to decide what to wear for date night, make sure your outfit fits the event, your mood, and the weather. Nothing worse than showing up underdressed or freezing.
Glow From Within… and Without
When your skin’s out, make sure it’s soft, smooth, and moisturized. I used a gentle body scrub in the shower to exfoliate, followed by my go-to: Ase Therapy Body Butter. It gives that perfect glow, and keeps your skin feeling like silk all night.
Tie It All Together with the Scenes
Now, you already know the fragrance must match the vibe. It’s the final layer. The soft whisper you leave behind. And for this night? I wanted something that felt feminine, flirty, and undeniably luxe. I reached for Parfums de MARLY – Oriana, and let me just say she delivered, as always. This scent opens with juicy notes of mandarin, grapefruit, and bergamot, then melts into a soft heart of orange blossom and marshmallow. Yes I said marshmallow, I know it sounds questionable and don’t get it twisted it is sweet but it is still giving that grown woman flair. Finally, it dries down into a delicate, creamy base of ambrette and musk that lingers beautifully on the skin. This fragrance paired perfectly with my flowey French roll, black cut-out dress, and my overall elegant and sexy vibe that I was going for. Ladies, your scent is part of the look. Don’t skip this step. Choose something that complements your outfit, your energy, and the type of night you’re stepping into.
Now Friend…
Whether you’re headed to a five-star dinner, the symphony, or a surprise picnic, your style always deserve a little extra effort, and you should always know what to wear for date night. Looking good helps you feel good, and when you feel good you radiate confidence. So go ahead: prep the nails, book the hair appointment, lay out the outfit, and glow up from the inside out. This summer, we’re showing up polished, pretty, and unforgettable.
Shara, WithLove
