Date Night Looks for Him and Her

Date night deserves a special outfit, whether it's for a first date or for a Saturday night tradition with your partner. But choosing what to wear shouldn't mean stressing over what's in your closet and trying on everything you own. On the other hand, you also don't want to look like you threw on the jeans and T-shirt that were the "least dirty" in the hamper. It's all about balancing effort and ease.

The date: Dinner, drinks and a stroll through a few local art galleries

The dress code: Dressy but comfortable

Every woman should have at least one go-to dress she can put on any time and know she will look amazing. This Emma & Michele dress has a belt to show off (or create) an hourglass silhouette, and the ruffles draw the eye up to your face. It also has a bit of stretch to it, so you can go ahead and order dessert. Paired with snake-print pumps, this dress goes from sweet to sexy, and a red clutch adds a splash of color that you can match with your lipstick. Men don't need a suit and tie for this event, but a button-down shirt and a sport coat will make sure you're on par with your date. A pair of brown loafers will be comfortable but infinitely more dressed up than a pair of sneakers.

The date: The symphony and fine dining

The dress code: Bring out your best

A special occasion deserves only the best, and while few dates involve ball gowns and opera gloves, you can show how special the night is to you by pulling out your best. This black lace Tahari dress is the sort of dress that makes all those squats and lunges at the gym worth it; you can layer it over some shapewear if you haven't been quite so diligent in that area. Let the texture of the lace be the star and pair this dress with classic black heels and a black clutch. For men, this is the time to wear a suit, like this black wool Ben Sherman suit, and a pair of black Oxfords. To make sure you don't look like you're headed to a board meeting, choose a brightly colored shirt over a white one.

The date: Burgers and beers with a side of Skee-Ball

The dress code: A cleaned-up version of your everyday style

If you're just meeting up for a casual date, go for a look that is you, just a little better. Women can improve the jeans and T-shirt combination with a dash of sequins, like the sparkly black stripes on this Jessica Simpson top. Black jeans are more dressed up than blue, but a dark wash would have the same effect. Few occasions are too informal for a pair of heels, in my opinion, but a pair of low pumps will ensure that you don't look overdressed. A leather hobo bag has a casual feeling that will fit right in. Men can get the same type of look with a button-down shirt and a wool sweater. Your nicest pair of jeans and some leather boots will finish it off.

Do you have a date night coming up? What are you planning to wear?

Posted by Stephanie Petersen