One weekend in early February, I had four dates scheduled. Yes, four. I couldn’t possibly comprehend how I was going to find the time for all of them, but more importantly, what I would wear? Not only because it was four dates (did I mention it was four?) but because it happened to be a particularly freezing cold weekend. Could I just repeat the same outfit, or would I need to get creative and find some cold-weather winter date night outfits that I actually still felt chic and sexy wearing?
As it turned out, the men of Hinge are just as unreliable as they have always been, so only one date came to fruition – it happened to be the best first date of my life, but that’s a story for another day. This story is about what the hell you wear when you have to leave the house when it’s horrible outside, but you still want to look your best for a date.
When you think about having to battle the elements, I’m sure your first thoughts turn to waterproof jackets and sturdy umbrellas – neither of which are typical date-night attire – but as we face weather warnings complete with snow, striking the balance between practical and alluring becomes an interesting challenge.
Read more on date night outfits:
- I asked my male friends what I should wear on a first date, and this is what they said
- Your 2023 dating resolutions, and how to dress for them
- What men wear that we hate, from Uggs to cringe slogan T-shirts
- Man-repelling outfits: everything you need to know if you’re a serial dater
- All the first date outfits for your dating phase
Now let’s take a quick trip down memory lane.
I went on a date in January 2021 when lockdown dates of walking around a park with your love interest was still a thing. It was particularly freezing, so I wore thermals underneath a hoodie, with black jeans, accessorising with a new coat and some killer black boots. The guy turned out to be a catfish – my first experience of this kind and hopefully my last. Despite my preparation to stay warm during our walk around Victoria Park in Hackney, the cold weather became my escape plan. That’s the beauty of thermals, they’re hidden underneath your outfit so he was none the wiser that I was actually pretty warm. Nonetheless, after just 30 minutes of small talk I started rubbing my icy hands together and made my excuses to leave and return to the warmth of home.
Luckily, the days of park hangs in the winter are behind us, but dating doesn’t stop just because there is a little rain outside. Come rain or shine – single or coupled up – we should all be going on dates (if we want to!)
So, whether it’s a dinner date, a cosy evening in for two, late night drinks or, if you’re feeling brave, something outdoors – the below cold weather winter date night outfits should have you covered. My mum always said it’s good to leave something to the imagination so embrace the season of covering up before Hot Girl Summer arrives and we’re left with no choice but to bare it all.
A gorgeous coat
First impressions are everything so be bold with your outerwear choices and wrap up in something chic and/or showstopping.
Great boots
Essential whether you are dating or not, black leather boots are *that* girl.
A date scarf
I don’t love a scarf. They never seem to look right on me, but these ones have potential. Extra points for a football scarf from his team. (I’m joking. Or am I?)
Sexy trousers
By now you should know how I feel about these Good American leather trousers. Everyone should own them in whatever colour or texture they prefer. Size down and thank me later. Plus, leather keeps you SO warm.
Tights
IMHO, bare legs are rank most of the time unless tanned and greased-up to perfection. Sheer black tights however are always a good look and are effortlessly sexy.
Knits
Pair knits with some fitted jeans, leather trousers or a little skirt and the aforementioned tights and you can’t go wrong.
More on cold weather winter date night outfits:
- Man-repelling outfits: everything you need to know if you’re a serial dater
- Winter date night outfits: All the style solutions you need to know for 2023
- The date night outfits that won’t let you down (even if your date does)
Cosy dresses
Go for something body-con or form-fitting so you don’t feel completely covered up.
Subtle thermals
… just in case.