Dinner and a movie is the classic date night, one you’ll likely do numerous times throughout your relationship. It’s simple and effective, and who doesn’t love to catch a good film on a Friday or Saturday night? But when it comes to choosing an outfit, it can be a little hard to gauge what you should wear. It’s a date, after all, so you want something romantic, but sitting in a theater (or at home on the couch) for a few hours also requires comfortable clothing.
A movie date is all about simplicity, so pull out a few things that are already in your wardrobe and style them into an entirely new look. It could be your favorite bomber jacket or that jumpsuit you know is super comfy. As long you feel confident in it, you can’t go wrong. However, it is a good idea to keep the location in mind—as well as whether you’ll be eating at a fancy restaurant beforehand–as this can affect your styling choices.
So, to give you some inspiration, we’ve rounded up 15 movie-date-outfit ideas that are easy and stylish.
Silk Pajamas
We’re not opposed to a pajama set for a movie date night, especially if it’s made of silk. A monochrome pair in a subtle pattern will give off cool-girl vibes, but the real selling point is they’re just very comfortable. Elevate the look further with pointed-toe mules.
A Sweater Dress
If you live in sweaters, even in the warmer months, this lavender sweater dress is the perfect reference for your movie night outfit. You can throw it on and go, but it still looks put together thanks to the midi length and collared neckline. Preppy chic is in, so drape another sweater around your shoulders for a sophisticated finish (and extra warmth).
Double Denim
Pair a denim shirt with a coordinating maxi skirt for a double-denim look that requires minimal effort. The accessories are an important part of this outfit, so add a fun shoe and gold jewelry for an easy way to dress up the denim. Since a bodycon denim skirt like this may be uncomfortable to sit in through a two-hour movie, you can also opt for one with a looser fit.
A Cropped Cardigan
Instead of taking a cardigan with you in case it gets cold in the theater, make it the whole outfit. Layer a cropped cardigan in your favorite hue over a coordinating bralette for an effortless look that is only made better when paired with printed pants. If you prefer a more toned-down look, consider matching pants or black leggings.
A Blazer and a Slip Dress
The blazer-and-slip dress combo never fails if you’re seeking an elegant yet casual date night look. Whether you’re watching movies at home or going to your local theater, this outfit can be adapted to any aesthetic. Keep it simple by accessorizing with platform sneakers, or take a glamorous approach by pairing your look with a block heel.
A Matching Set
Short on time for getting ready? Throw on a matching set for an outfit that is comfortable and elegant. If your coordinated look centers on earth tones, gravitate toward statement footwear or jewelry to add a pop of color.
Wide-Leg Pants
Wide-leg pants are not only on-trend, but they add a sense of elegance to nearly any outfit. Play around with the styling by pairing the bottoms with a bright top, printed footwear, and gold jewelry. If you’d rather keep it simple, these wide-leg trousers would also look fantastic with a beige long-sleeve top and sneakers.
A Moto Jacket
Need a break from denim? Reach for a moto jacket instead. It’s just as versatile, meaning you can match it with most bottoms in your closet. To create contrast, slip the jacket on over a leather midi skirt, or you could lean into a casual look by adding a pair of black high-waisted pants. Finish the outfit with a few fun accessories like chunky sneakers and a color-coordinated bag.
A Tank Top and Jeans
Take it back to the basics with a white tank top and jeans. These are pieces you likely already have hanging in your closet that can be spruced up for date night with a few accessories. Opt for edgy styling by accessorizing your outfit with black pointed-toe pumps, a chain-link bag, and your favorite shades (to be removed inside the theater, of course).
A Jumpsuit
Tossing on a jumpsuit is as easy as it gets for a quick date-night look. An eye-catching pattern will turn this outfit into a bold fashion statement, so it’s best to keep your accessories simple. A plain mule or sneaker and dainty jewelry will complete this look and have you out the door in minutes.
A Flannel
A movie date night in the fall calls for a flannel. This cute and cozy staple would pair well with corduroy pants and ankle boots for a sophisticated look. But if you want something that feels more grungy, add leather leggings and combat boots to transform your outfit.
An Off-the-Shoulder Top
A black off-the-shoulder top and beige slacks are a classic combo for any time of year. It’s sophisticated and still appropriate for date night when paired with simple sneakers and a small clutch. If you’re grabbing dinner at a fancy restaurant beforehand, you can also opt for pointed-toe kitten heels and a statement necklace to take the look up a notch.
Cargo Pants
An outfit that has multiple pockets is always a good idea in our book. Who doesn’t love some extra storage space? If sporty chic is your style, grab a pair of olive cargo pants and combine them with a white T-shirt and a red leather jacket. Add some lace-up sneakers, and you’re ready to go.
A Bomber Jacket
Everything about this outfit exudes confidence and cool-girl vibes, from the on-trend denim maxi skirt to the celeb-favorite bomber jacket. This relaxed look allows you to have a little fun with your accessories, so add a pair of knee-high boots and gold statement earrings for a flirty touch.
A Sweater Vest
If it’s too warm in your area for a full-on sweater, opt for a vest version that’s perfect for a daytime movie date. Adding flared jeans and kitten heels makes the outfit feel less academic and more casual-cool. Sweater vests are also great layering pieces, so another styling option is to toss on a white T-shirt underneath for a ‘90s-inspired look.