7 affordable date-night outfits

Craving a little one-on-one time with your partner? It’s almost Valentine’s Day, which means it’s time to start thinking about the perfect ensemble for your date activity of choice. These easy Valentine’s Day outfit ideas pair thrifty new items—think a cute dress or checkered shirt— with pieces that you probably have in your closet. Wear one of these affordable date-night outfits and wow your loved one, whether it’s your first Valentine’s Day as a couple or your 10th. 

Date 1: Ice skating under the stars

The outfits: Few dates are as romantic as gliding around a frozen rink, hand in hand. But what to wear when you want to stay warm and look cute? Choose colourful pieces and slim trousers or jeans to balance the proportions of a puffy parka (opens in a new window). To round out the look, layer a cozy turtleneck underneath the parka for extra warmth and top it all off with a knit beanie (opens in a new window) (with pom-pom, please!) and matching mittens (opens in a new window). 

Date 2: A cooking class for two

The outfits: It’s time to get messy! Since ingredients will be flying, keep your look casual and avoid white pieces that will easily stain. You’ll likely both wear aprons throughout class, so take that into consideration when picking an outfit. Women: Choose a blouse (opens in a new window) with interest around the neckline and shoulders. Pull back your hair so it’s off your face and feel free to incorporate hair accessories or drop earrings. Men: A checkered shirt (opens in a new window) with rolled-up sleeves suits the venue. 

Date 3: Jazz and cocktails

The outfits: If you plan to spend your evening in a dimly-lit venue, with a beverage of choice in hand, choose an outfit that will stand out. Women: For the best effect, date-night dresses (opens in a new window) might feature a special fabric (velvet, sequins, silk or lace). Add sparkly earrings and a pair of colourful heels to complete the look. Men: Stick with a light-coloured button-down Oxford shirt (opens in a new window) and dark slacks. Your partner won’t be able to look away!

Date 4: A basketball or hockey game

The outfits: You have a few different outfit options when it comes to cheering on your favourite sports team. Plan to wear a jersey? Men and women alike can streamline the rest of the look with slim trousers and ankle boots. Men: If you’re skipping the merch, keep things simple with a hoodie over a fresh white tee. Women: Consider pairing your ankle boots with a sweater dress (opens in a new window) and cropped denim, suede or corduroy jacket. Add touches like bangles, rings or layered necklaces. 

Date 5: A couples’ workout

The outfits: Even if you’re a loose-tee-and-sweats kinda couple, a Valentine’s Day workout is the time to take the outfits up a notch. Women: Aim for leggings with a fun print and a moisture-wicking tank (opens in a new window). If you plan to grab coffee or smoothies after class, pull your look together with a fitted hoodie or active jacket. Men: Opt for joggers with tapered ankles (opens in a new window) and a moisture-wicking shirt.

Date 6: Dinner and dancing

The outfits: Ready to kick up your heels? You need an outfit that you can twirl in. Women: Skip pencil skirts in favour of wide-legged trousers or an A-line skirt with block heels. A silky camisole (opens in a new window) is the perfect finisher. Men: Try a fitted V-neck sweater (opens in a new window) and stretchy chinos (opens in a new window).

Date 7: A cuddle-friendly movie marathon 

The outfits: For any date that involves cuddling on the couch, comfort is a priority. But instead of wearing ratty old pajamas, try a fresh PJ set (opens in a new window). Keep your feet warm with slippers or thick wool socks. 

Find everything you need for a range of affordable date-night outfits at Joe Fresh®. (opens in a new window) You can even earn PC Optimum points on every purchase, which is rewards right back in your PC Optimum account.