So your text conversations are hitting the right note, and it’s time to finally meet up. Or maybe you’re due for a break from dinners on the couch and have an exciting night out planned. Whether it’s a first date or a reoccurring slot on your calendar, dressing up for a dinner date is an art. Throw in the extra variable of chilly fall weather and it’s like tackling a scientific formula. How do you show skin without freezing by the end of the night or make a statement in high heels without collecting a fresh set of blisters? Luckily, the below outfits will help you do just that.

The key to a successful date-night ‘fit is striking the delicate balance between romance, comfort, and intrigue. Whether you’re going on a movie date or are in for a Michelin-star evening, these looks are useful jumping-off points to formulate your own date-night uniform. All are A+ options, so keep scrolling to see them all as well as the pieces to shop for. Here’s to a road of successful fall nights ahead.

Style Tip: A tube shirt and column skirt create a cool silhouette that’s soft yet sleek.

Style Tip: When in doubt, head-to-toe black is always a winner. Start with leather pants and add in a simple black strapless top.

Style Tip: Vibrant colors are heavy wardrobe lifters without much effort. A color this saturated is bound to get all of the attention.

Style Tip: As the chilly weather sets in, repurpose your tailored shorts with the addition of stockings. 

Style Tip: Low-key elegance is easy to achieve by pairing a voluminous A-line skirt and a fitted knit top.

Style Tip: When your dress code requires you to look put-together but is not quite cocktail attire, try jeans with a crisp button-down and flashy heels.

Style Tip: The bright spot about cooler weather? The coats. A statement coat and heeled boots are really all you need to wow your date come October.

Style Tip: A boxy blazer with a fluid satin skirt create an interesting contrast that’s sophisticated yet modern.

Style Tip: Take note of the current ’90s wave and pair your ruffled top with easy straight jeans. For casual drinks or a late-night walk, this combo isn’t too buttoned up. 

Style Tip: If you’re down for the risqué side of things, embrace the open-knit trend with a cool dress meant to catch eyes. To leave a little to the imagination, layer a leather coat over it.