Football games, Oktoberfest, seasonal menus, and live music at the neighborhood venue all make for excellent excuses to go out and get a little fancy. But just because you’ve got a night out in the works doesn’t mean you can justify maxing out the credit card on a dress you’ll wear twice a year. So invite that romantic interest to your favorite spot and shop these date night outfits (relatively) guilt-free, knowing that they’re affordable and wear again-able.
On sale for $100 less than the original price, the Quita Dress from Anthropologie is a navy and white striped beauty tailored with petite-sized women in mind. The shift style is super flattering, and the slit in the back adds a little flirtatious style. Wear it with nude pumps or wedges, a colorful necklace and a swept-up bun or ponytail, and you’ll stand out (in the best way) whether you’re at a tapas bar or a backyard party.
You could pair just about any top with the black and white Puerto Ayora Printed Pants from ThreadSence and look good—really good. Whether you want to dress them down with an oversized sweater and boots or dress them up with a fitted top and heels, the pants make a statement regardless. At $36, you’ve just added a whole lot of personality to your closet for just a little bit of money.
Headed somewhere low-key but still want to look like a goddess? Maxi dresses are always a good way to go, and Alternative Apparel’s Jacquard Racerback Maxi Dress for $79 is one of the most comfortable and flattering options. The knit fabric feels cozy and soft enough to wear while lounging around the house—which this writer does with some frequency— but is versatile enough to pair with funky jewelry for a night out.
If you’re planning on a long night of dinner, drinks and flirty talk, a short, printed wrap dress like Ruche’s Granite Hill Printed Dress for $44 will look amazing with your hair let down (slightly unkempt) and a gold statement ring and necklace. You’ll glow in the candlelight.
Whether the outing calls for a low-maintenance outfit or you’re just more comfortable in jeans than a dress, this Free People ONE Gauze Buttondown for $30 (down from $108!) will work day or night—with dark or light jeans—and adds subtle details to a classic look.
So, clever ladies—where to?
