I'm Trying to Figure Out How to Dress for Dinner Dates Again—8 Ideas I'm Eyeing

I have to admit that I'm a little out of practice when it comes to getting dressed for "normal" events, so I'm spending time trying to relearn the art of putting together some looks. One area, in particular, that I've been trying to find inspiration for? Dinner date outfits. After scrolling through Instagram to see what the fashion set has been wearing, it turns out that there are so many ideas that I can't wait to test-drive myself.

Many of the outfits I'm eyeing are taking inspiration straight from the S/S 21 runways. This comes as no surprise since some of the key trends of the season are primed for date-night outfits, including everything from micro miniskirts and pointy-toe heels to "floss" pieces and '90s-inspired fashion. If you're similarly looking to step up your date-night outfits, I have you covered with eight cool ideas ahead.

1. Miniskirts

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(Image credit: @giuliatordini)

The micro mini is a skirt style I'm eyeing that is perfect for a date-night outfit. This is a piece that was everywhere on the S/S 21 runways, and now is the time to add it into your wardrobe. To balance out the short hemline, add an oversized blazer on top.

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2. "Floss" Pieces

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(Image credit: @slipintostyle)

Clothing with barely-there "floss" straps and ties feels primed for a cool date-night look. I'd pair a top with trouser-like jeans or wear a bra top underneath an oversized blazer.

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3. Midi Dresses

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(Image credit: @rosiehw)

I have my eye on midi dresses with cool details. From Isa Boulder's take with arm warmers to Reformation's waist-tie version to the chain-detail style from Bazilika, there are so many directional takes on the midi dress to wear just in time for summer date nights.

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4. Pointy-Toe Heels

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(Image credit: @pernilleteisbaek)

Pointy-toe heels are already carving themselves out as the next cult fashion-girl shoes, and they just happen to be the ultimate date-night accessory.

5. Slit Skirts

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(Image credit: @handinfire)

On the top of my summer shopping list? A slit skirt in a midi or maxi length, which is the perfect thing to pair with all of the stunning midriff-baring tops on the market right now.

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6. Strappy Heels

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(Image credit: @ali_tate_cutler)

Strappy heels are another piece that seems like a no-brainer for a date-night outfit, and they look equally cool with jeans or a pretty dress.

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7. Small Bags

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(Image credit: @viktorijasvedkova)

A great bag is the ultimate piece to complete a date-night look. I think a small baguette or clutch-style bag is perfect for holding just the essentials.

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8. Strapless Silhouettes

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(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

I always love pieces that are an ode to cool '90s style, so I'm really gravitating to the sleek strapless silhouettes that are everywhere at the moment. Whether you opt for a top or a dress, this is the easy answer to a cool date-night look.

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Next up, the biggest autumn/winter 2021 fashion trends to know. 

This piece originally appeared onBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing U.S. 

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Associate Director, Special Projects

Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury content and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, MyTheresa, and Luisa Via Roma, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. BeforeBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on assistant styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.