24 Summer Date Night Outfits, From Casual to Cocktail

There's just something magical about a summer date night. From dining al fresco to walks on the beach and concerts in the park, there are so many options. Luckily, the same goes for summer date night outfits. Whether you're dressing up for a week night out with your spouse or trying to make a good impression on someone you're meeting for the first time, odds are you want to show up looking your best, and a stylish summer fit can certainly help with that.

Finding an outfit that not only looks good, but can also stand up against the summer heat, isn't always an easy task. We're here to help. Seamlessly shop our favorite summer date outfits for every occasion in just a few clicks. Oh, and in case you were still in need of some summer date ideas, we've got plenty of those too (you're welcome).

Casual Summer Date Outfit Ideas

Summertime and casual attire go hand in hand. Whether you're planning a relaxing day at the pool or looking to beat the heat in an air conditioned movie theater, you'll want to pick an outfit that's a little more lowkey. A sundress and sandals is a foolproof outfit formula in our books. For a summer date outfit that can seamlessly transition from day to night, try a linen button down and matching shorts. Oh, and don't forget: A pair of sunnies can give any outfit a more laid back look, plus they'll come in handy if you're spending time outdoors. Check out these shoppable looks for more inspo:

Petal + Pup Cintrico Mini Dress in Lemon

Photo: Petal + Pup

When life gives you an adorable lemon-printed sundress, you sit back and relax in it while drinking a glass of (spiked?!) lemonade.

Wear it to: A picnic in the park

Wear it with: A pair of strappy sandals and your favorite sunnies

Dolce Vita Chavi Sandals in LT Natural Raffia

Photo: Dolce Vita

With a 1.4" platform, these woven raffia sandals will take your summer date night look to new heights (quite literally).

Wear it to: A long walk on the beach

Wear it with: Jean shorts and a lightweight linen blouse

Abercrombie & Fitch Camp Collar Cropped 2-Button Sweater Polo in Soft Silver Stripe

Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch

This knit polo's open weave makes it a breathable option for facing the summer heat in.

Wear it to: Spend the day at the zoo

Wear it with: Brown shorts and cream-colored sneakers

Nisolo Men's Huarache Sandal in Brandy

Photo: Nisolo

You won't have to worry about sand in between your toes when you're rocking these stylish huarache sandals.

Wear it to: Charter a sailboat with a group of friends

Wear it with: White linen trousers and a navy blue tee

Universal Standard The Square Neck Swimsuit in Black

Photo: Universal Standard

Throw on a skirt or a pair of jean shorts and this size-inclusive swimsuit can double as a chic bodysuit.

Wear it to: Take a late night dip in the pool

Wear it with: A floppy sun hat and a pair of bright-colored sunglasses

Duvin Florida Swim Short

Photo: Duvin

You might not be able to make it to the Sunshine State this summer, but you can get your hands on these sweet Florida-printed swim shorts (which is almost as good).

Wear it to: Faceoff with another couple in a chicken fight

Wear it with: Your favorite pair of sunglasses and plenty of SPF

ELOQUII Asym Twist Sleeve Top in Cinnamon Stick

Photo: ELOQUII

We don't blame you if this asymmetric top's vibrant orange color has you craving an aperol spritz.

Wear it to: An evening sipping cocktails alfresco

Wear it with: Jeans and a pair of block heeled sandals

Tombolo '¡Gusanito!' Cabana Shirt

Photo: Tombolo

Made from organic terry cloth fabric, this gender neutral button down can double as a towel in the event that you opt for a post-date dip in the pool.

Wear it to: Fill up on chips, salsa and margs at a local mexican restaurant

Wear it with: Huarache sandals and a pair of clubmaster sunglasses

Madewell Lantern Straw Hat in Desert Dune

Photo: Madewell

Talk about a stylish way to keep the sun out of your eyes, this straw sunhat will complement any summer look. Bonus: It's totally packable for all your summer travels.

Wear it to: Cheer on your favorite baseball team

Wear it with: Jean shorts and a white button-down

FARM Rio Off-White Macaw Elegance Romper

Photo: FARM Rio

A romper is always a stylish (and functional) alternative to a dress, especially if you have a sporty date on your calendar. Mini golf or bowling anyone?

Wear it to: Faceoff in a round of mini golf

Wear it with: Flat sandals or clean white sneakers

Mañana Longboard Trucker Hat in Off White

Photo: Mañana

It's summer and that means all your worries will have to be postponed to mañana. This playful trucker hat gives off laid back vibes.

Wear it to: Cheer on your besties at a beach volleyball tournament

Wear it with: A sporty swimsuit (just in case you get challenged to a round)

PacSun Pacific Inn Oversized T-Shirt

Photo: PacSun

Nothing rounds out a summer wardrobe quite like a versatile graphic tee. We love the retro vibes of this oversized style.

Wear it to: Beat the heat by catching a few summer flicks at the local theater

Wear it with: Khaki-colored shorts and a pair of high-top sneakers

Dressy Summer Date Night Outfits

Maybe you're headed to an upscale oceanside restaurant, or maybe you've been invited to be a plus one at a formal summer wedding. When it comes to choosing dressy summer date night outfits, there are a few pieces that will always give your look that summer swagger. A pair of woven wedges, can instantly take any sundress from day to night. Similarly, a patterned pocket square and a pair of huarache loafers will make your suit more summer-friendly. When in doubt, you can't go wrong with one of these shoppable looks:

Petal + Pup Sola Midi Dress in White

Photo: Petal + Pup

With cutouts across the bodice and an open back, this white cotton maxi dress will have you ready to show off your summer tan.

Wear it to: Dinner and drinks at an exclusive beach club

Wear it with: Chunky gold jewelry and a pair of woven wedges

Dolce Vita Emmie Flat in Natural Beige

Photo: DSW

Made from woven raffia and featuring a comfortable slingback design, these flats will perfectly complement all of your favorite summer sundresses.

Wear it to: A summer evening stroll around town

Wear it with: A colorful printed midi dress and pair with a matching raffia handbag

Suitsupply Sand Herringbone Tailored Fit Havana Suit

Photo: Suitsupply

A versatile, all-weather suit that can transcend seasons? Now that's a wardrobe staple in our books.

Wear it to: Cheer on your friends as they walk down the aisle at their summer wedding

Wear it with: A subtle pop-of-color (we'd recommend a tie or pocket square)

Rodd & Gunn Men's Gisborne Leather Huarache Penny Loafers in Redwood

Photo: Neiman Marcus

Featuring an elevated, yet comfortable, design, these leather loafers were made for wedding days and date nights alike.

Wear it to: A summer wedding reception

Wear it with: A linen suit and a paisley-printed tie

Petal + Pup Starlette Midi Dress in Cream Multi

Photo: Petal + Pup

This smocked midi dress was practically made for dining alfresco this summer (peep the lobsters and artichokes in its abstract pattern).

Wear it to: A hole-in-the-wall seafood shack located on a coastal scenic route

Wear it with: A pair of strappy sandals and a floppy sun hat

Cult Gaia Sybil Crossbody Bag

Photo: Cult Gaia

Thanks to this wicker handbag's detachable crossbody strap, you can be ready for whatever date night may bring.

Wear it to: Spend the day exploring a quaint lakeside village

Wear it with: A white linen maxi dress and lace up sandals

Abercrombie & Fitch Camp Collar Cropped Linen-Blend Palm Tree Music Festival Shirt

Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch

This festive button down will make everyday feel like a day at the beach thanks to its soft linen blend fabric and comfortable cropped cut.

Wear it to: An evening event at an upscale country club

Wear it with: A pair of white trousers and camel-colored loafers

ELOQUII Fringe A-Line Dress

Photo: ELOQUII

A festive fringe trim makes this crochet maxi dress perfect to shimmy and shake in.

Wear it to: Take a salsa dance class

Wear it with: A comfortable pair of block heels and a bold red lip

Chan Luu Bali Waterfall Earrings in Champagne Mix

Photo: Chan Luu

The world is truly your oyster when you've got a pair of pearl drop earrings that will match virtually anything in your wardrobe.

Wear it to: A first date to make a statement

Wear it with: A sleek slicked back bun and simple, glowy makeup

Abercrombie & Fitch Jacquard Striped Button-Through Sweater Polo in Cloud Grey Stripe

Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch

If knitwear doesn't immediately come to mind when you think about summer date outfits, this breathable knit polo is prepared to change your mind.

Wear it to: A hotel rooftop bar

Wear it with: White linen trousers and a pair of camel-colored boat shoes

Lulus Cheerful Season Blue Striped Two-Piece Midi Dress With Pockets

Photo: Lulus

Everything about this look says 'summer', from its nautical striped print, to its breathable silhouette. Wear the crop top and skirt as a set or mix and match with your favorite summer pieces.

Wear it to: A sunset sail around the harbor

Wear it with: A knotted rope tote and a pair of lace-up sandals

Biagio Santo Orange Double Face Pocket Square

Photo: Biagio Santo

This orange printed pocket square will add the perfect pop-of-color to all your summer suits (hey, you'll probably be reaching for it all year long).

Wear it to: That popular steakhouse you finally landed a resy for

Wear it with: A cream-colored blazer and jeans

Where to Shop for Summer Date Clothes

Continuing your search for the perfect summer date clothes? Here are a few retailers you won't want to miss:

Abercrombie & Fitch: This beloved brand is more than just a must-visit on your trip to the mall. They're also one the best places to shop timeless summer date night outfits for both men and women. We love that they offer inclusive sizing, with many styles being offered in standard, petite and tall lengths. And have you tried their jeans? You can thank us later.

Petal + Pup: For trendy summer styles that won't break the bank, Petal + Pup is our go-to. On their site, you'll find plenty of on-trend looks for under $100, with new pieces being added often. Plus, you can take 15% off your first order when you enter the code 'PETALXKNOT' at checkout.

FARM Rio: When it comes to summer sundresses, nobody does it quite like FARM Rio. You'll find everything from casual frocks to more formal floor-length looks within their selection. Not to mention, they're known for their festive and colorful patterns that are perfect for summer.

Tombolo: Tombolo's gender-neutral sets just scream 'summer'. With seasonal motifs, like lobsters, mermaids and more, printed right on them, we're sure both you and your date will get a kick out of them. Plus, they'll make the perfect addition to your packing list for your next beach vacay.