Park Dates Are a Thing—Here's Exactly What to Wear

I'm far from a dating expert. My husband and I have been together a total of 15 years, so I've missed out on the whole Bumble and Tinder thing. That said, when my single friends are getting ready for their dates, they still choose to run their outfits past me, which I always find very flattering.

After a decade spent working in fashion, I've become acutely aware of the small cues your clothing choices can make on your behalf, whether you know it or not. You need to feel comfortable in your clothes, especially on a date. If you don't, you'll hold your body in an entirely different way than how you usually would, which makes it harder for the person you're with to connect with you. Wearing something that isn't "you" will send off the wrong signals and completely change the tone of your meet-up. Of course, get it right, and you'll feel good and confident in yourself, which can help everything else fall into place.

Recently, with the nicer spell of weather we've been having, my friends have had an increasing number of park-based dates. This, of course, means there's a whole host of decisions to be made. One suggestion? Choose practical shoes. As for clothing? Try to strike the perfect balance between being stylish (but not OTT) and appropriate for your casual outdoor surroundings without looking as if you've made zero effort. Again, these are suggestions, and personal preference should always take precedence. It might sound complex, but it can be done. In fact, I've found eight foolproof ensembles that tick all those boxes.

From a classic jeans-and-nice-top combination to the skirt-and-shoe pairing that always works, here's what to wear to a date in the park.

1. KNITTED CO-ORD + DENIM SKIRT

Style Notes: While jeans are absolutely suitable attire for park dates (in fact, many of my suggested looks will feature this staple item), don’t assume this is your only denim option. A cute denim skirt will also work in your favour and will look sweet worn with everything from knitted twinsets to white blouses. 

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2. STRAPPY DRESS + CHUNKY BOOTS

Style Notes: Some wilder parks—take Richmond Park, for example—mean uneven terrain, and the last thing you need to worry about is slipping or tripping in inappropriate footwear. Combat this with a pair of, well, combat boots, styled with a chic black sundress. 

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3. FANCY TOP + CLASSIC JEANS

Style Notes: Jeans and trainers are ideal for park dates, as they’re casual, but if you want to elevate your ensemble, try pairing them with a pretty white blouse. 

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4. SLIP SKIRT + SLOUCHY KNIT

Style Notes: Slip skirts might be considered fancy, especially for park dates, but worn with a basic jersey top and a slouchy cardigan, they’re instantly overhauled and give off a luxe low-key vibe. 

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5. MIDI DRESS + ESPADRILLES 

Style Notes: Minidresses are always a solid option, but midis will allow you to promenade a little easier on your park date. If you’re more likely to wear heels over flats, why not consider a pair of comfortable espadrilles?

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6. SIMPLE JERSEY + HIGH-WAIST JEANS

Style Notes: Sometimes, less is more—jeans and a simple top are effortless to style, but when you stick to one shade, just like Amaka has with her cream-and-white ensemble, you’ll look instantly pulled-together and polished. 

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7. SHORTS SET + CHUNKY TRAINERS

Style Notes: For the days when the temperature is on your side, shorts become a strong park-date option. Right now, there are plenty of shorts-and-shirt co-ords that are flirty and cool in equal measure. 

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8. TEA DRESS + METALLIC SHOES

Style Notes: Timeless and elegant, tea dresses are the go-to attire for most of my friends when they head out on a date. Just add your favourite gold jewellery and some sandals, and you’re good to go. 

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Next Up: 7 Outfits to Wear to the Pub That Don't Look OTT

This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.