Most Wanted: Date Night

Whether you’re going for an intimate candlelit dinner or cocktails at your favorite jazz bar, date night is the perfect excuse to get dressed up – and take a few risks. Now isn’t the time for practicality, so don’t be afraid to play with figure-skimming silhouettes, high-shine fabrics and seductively sheer textures. If you’re in need of some inspiration, look to newlywed Dua Lipa, who nailed date-night style in a fringed Ferragamo gown while out with husband Callum Turner recently. Elsewhere, Hailey Bieber masterfully styled a vintage mini for a romantic dinner at New York’s trendy The Corner Store restaurant, teaming it with little more than a pair of thong sandals and ’90s-esque shades.

There’s no denying the allure of an LBD after dark, especially one as romantic as Dilara Findikoglu’s ‘Cold Morning’ mini dress. First seen on the spring/summer 2026 runway, it’s cut from swathes of diaphanous tulle with lingerie-inspired lace trims and a thigh-skimming hem. Dial up the drama even more with Christen’s ‘Helix’ pumps in glossy croc-effect leather, finishing the look with Anita Ko’s diamond-encrusted ‘Fringe’ earrings and a vampy red lip. Alternatively, if you’re heading straight to dinner from the office, Saint Laurent’s floral-brocade skirt and Altuzarra’s fringed silk top is the perfect day-to-night pairing. Just add heels and swap your everyday tote for Valesque’s mini crushed velvet ‘Thea’ style, which has just enough room inside for your credit card and a compact.

“My favorite hobby is exploring new restaurants in London, so I have made it my life’s mission for every date night to be one up from the last – from food, to vibe, to my outfit,” says NET-A-PORTER commerce content editor Abbi Minchin. “I truly believe there is nothing sexier than a low-back dress and love this one by Saint Laurent. It feels powerful yet seductive without being openly so,” she adds, speaking of the burgundy style made from fluid jersey and detailed with slinky chain-embellished straps. Follow Minchin’s advice and let the dress do the talking by styling yours with barely-there sandals, a clutch and nothing else. If you insist on wearing jewelry, limit yourself to one statement piece, such as Paola Sighinolfi’s stunning ‘Bosco’ ring.

Browse more in this week’s New In.