It’s the most wonderful time of the year - and one of the most romantic times, too. With the twinkling Christmas lights all around, now is the perfect time to be heading out on a winter date. Don’t worry about trawling through your wardrobe looking for the ideal ensemble; we’ve put together a short guide with everything you need to know about date night outfits - whether you’re staying in or going out.
Read on for 9 tips for planning the perfect winter date night outfit.
1. Chic Knitwear
Knitwear is one of the best things about winter. Whether you choose a fine or a chunky knit finish, there’s nothing quite like slipping into a cosy, fluffy cardigan. We love a colourful, statement knitwear piece for a winter date night - look for unusual cuts, bold hues and accessories such as buttons or ruffles to elevate your knitwear look.
This bold, vivid Mohair mix cardigan with its balloon sleeves makes a great choice. Team it with high-waisted skinny jeans and trainers for a low-key look or go more glam with a midi skirt, tights and boots.
2. Mix ‘n’ Match
Sometimes, it can feel difficult to look chic and feel warm at the same time. However, one of the key trends this season makes it easy to do both by pairing the ultra-smart with the super casual for a mismatched look. Everyone loves a cosy, comfy sweatshirt - when done right, there’s no reason you can’t wear your favourite on a date. Remember - the best mix ‘n’ match looks are tonal, so make sure your chosen sweatshirt is in a hue that complements your swanky dress and heels; keep prints and slogans to a minimum (or choose a single statement slogan).
Match this laid-back Cotton cropped sweatshirt with a silk dress or skirt and killer heels for an outfit that positively screams ‘cool’.
3. Hot for Hosiery
In the cooler weather, hosiery suddenly becomes a major factor when it comes to outfit planning. Whether you’re pulling on a pair of woolly socks for a cosy night in front of the TV or shimmying into a pair of stockings for a hot date; the perfect winter outfit always needs hosiery.
Just because the weather is chilly doesn’t mean you need the 100 denier woollies on, though. Even the thinnest of layers can add warmth to your legs - and a thin denier is super flattering if you’re really feeling the loss of your summer tan.
Team a pair of patterned tights like these 20 deniers dotted tights with a dress or skirt and boots for a charming winter look that’ll have you looking hot and staying warm.
4. Old-School Glamour
There’s always a place for a touch of glamour in any outfit - particularly for date night. If you only want to invest in one smart winter coat, we love a long cut with a bit of glam. Think rich fabrics such as velvets or faux furs and dark hues like burgundy, emerald or navy for a coat that will turn heads.
This long buttoned coat with faux fur collar combines faux fur, rich colours and a pattern print for an ultra-glam look. Dress it down with jeans and boots or wear it over a black-tie outfit - the choice is yours.
5. Best Foot Forward
When it comes to winter footwear, a comfortable pair of boots is a must-have - and there are plenty of different styles to choose from, whether you prefer a flat sole or a heel. Ankle boots are incredibly versatile and can be worn with almost anything, though they don’t always give as smart a finish as a knee-high version. Black is a classic choice for winter, but the 70’s style tan and suede boots are making a huge comeback this season, too.
You can’t go wrong with a classic heeled boot like these leather knee-high boots; they will go with literally anything from cocktail dresses to sweatpants (yes, really).
6. Love Your Layers
In winter it‘s incredibly hard to dress perfectly for the temperature, especially if you’re often moving between outdoor and indoor locations. The key to getting through the day without being either drenched in sweat or shivering like a lost kitten is easy; layering. Build your look in multiple thinner layers, starting with a statement blouse, a fine-knit jumper, a cosy cardigan and a chic coat so you can add or subtract layers depending on the temperature.
In the darker months, we love bold prints like this recycled high neck blouse with long sleeves which add a touch of joy to your wardrobe.
7. Maxi Must-Haves
If you love a long hemline, then you’ll be delighted that this season, maxi skirts and dresses are a key trend for winter. The beauty is that you can rework your summer skirts for winter by accessorising them with tights and boots for an economical approach to winter fashion.
Or, why not choose a stiffer fabric such as a wool mix for a more seasonal look? This checked buttoned midaxi skirt has a structured feel and would look great with a tailored jacket or trench and chunky winter boots.
8. Millinery Magic
Hats are in this season. And yes, the weather outside might be frosty but that doesn’t mean you need a knitted triangle hat to keep your head warm (though we do love a good bobble). There are many different chic hat styles that look great in the winter months and are perfect for a date night. Why not embrace your European side and opt for a quirky beret, or do your own take on 90’s grunge with a cool beanie?
Alternatively, a classic style such as this wool Fedora hat looks incredibly stylish when paired with a long trench coat and boots.
9. Cute Accessories
You’ve got the hat sorted, now it’s time to focus on the finishing touches. In wintry weather, you’d be surprised how much difference a scarf can make. Wrap up warm with a knitted version like this wool mix scarf in cable-knit for a look that’s both stylish and sweet. Keeping your hands warm can also be fashion-focused if you invest in a smart pair of gloves like these leather faux fur lined gloves.
With only a month to go until Christmas, ‘tis definitely the season to be jolly. Update your winter wardrobe with some of these stylish and cosy winter outfits and you’ll look and feel great, whatever the occasion.
These chic outfits are so cute, they are enough to make anyone brave the cold evenings. If you like what you see, be sure to check out 7 must have accessories to buy men for Christmas and get inspired early.