If you go out a lot—maybe you’re thick in the dating scene, or simply love going out with friends—then you’ve probably experienced that panic of not knowing what to wear.
Sure, you get a lot of tips from fashion magazines, but it’s not like you can go out and buy very trendy dress that you fall in love with in the pages of Vogue.
However, with a few key pieces, you can create unlimited looks that you can update with accessories and a few carefully-selected items that represent the trends of the year. Here are some tips from professional stylists.
1. A high quality little black dress
Yes, you’ve heard about the importance of a little black dress. But stylists say that you need to find one that completely flatters your body type. Little details like the shape of the neckline or the length of the dress can make you look taller or thinner. The fabric should also have enough structure so that it follows your silhouette, creating curves, but doesn’t cling so tightly that it looks like it’s been spray-painted on you.
Dress up the dress for different occasions: a trendy bib necklace for an evening date at an elegant restaurant, classic pearls or gold for dinner with your date’s family; a funky belt and strappy heels for clubbing. You get our drift.
2. Skinny jeans
This is the casual version of the little black dress: you can pair it with almost any top, and you’re good to go! Dark pairs are great for slimming your silhouette. If you feel you don’t have the body type for skinny jeans, read our article on finding the best jeans for your shape.
3. Lace or satin top
This feminine fabric can be worn with a jacket (nice contrast of textures), a shawl (if you want to hide the arms) or on its own if you’ve got great arms and a date who you really, really want to impress.
4. Sexy heels
Heels make you look taller, make your legs look slimmer, and can add instant oomph to a classic dress or even slacks. These are great for going out after work. You can wear ‘sensible’ or ‘corporate’ shoes in the day time, and then shed the jacket and switch to these shoes when you’re ready to party.
5. A metallic item
Pick one that flatters your best feature: a metallic top if you’ve got a good bust or shoulders, or a metallic mini if you’ve got amazing legs. But so you don’t look like a disco ball, keep the rest of your outfit simple. Pair a metallic mini with a simple tank top, or a metallic top with classic slacks.
What would you include in a perfect date wardrobe?
One of my favorite, no-fail looks for evening is statement earrings… they help draw attention to the face and can help you make eye contact with people.
But what should the guys wear?