Look Stunning for Date Night

Whether you’re prepping for a hot first date or getting decked out for Valentine’s Day with the hubby, finding your fashion and beauty mojo is just a matter of sound style strategy, paired with timeless hair and makeup tips.

The Ultimate Date-night Outfit
For an eye-catching yet not-too-revealing look, Kabbie Rodriguez, associate fashion editor of OK! Magazine Philippines, recommends a long-sleeved black mini dress paired with heeled booties, a cocktail ring, and a cute clutch. Rodriguez, who has styled local and international stars like Charice Pempengco, Mylene Dizon and Jennylyn Mercado, advocates “the right fit and mastering proportions” when dressing up. For example, if you’re wearing something revealing up top, anchor the look with something long and flowy at the bottom, or layer a chic jacket over it.

The same holds true for makeup: If donning a smoky eye, balance it out with a nude lip. And, if wearing red lipstick, temper the sizzling shade with barely-there eye makeup.

The Ultimate Date-night Makeup
“The ultimate date-night makeup should be sexy but understated,” says makeup artist Barbi Chan, who has worked with celebrities Heart Evangelista, KC Concepcion, and Andi Eigenmann. For those who want to experiment with an edgier look, Chan recommends going for darker or stronger lip shades. “Lipsticks are easier to apply and to experiment with than eye shadows, and it’s amazing how different shades of lipsticks can completely change your vibe and image!” Standout shades to try are reddish plum, blue-based red, or fuschia-berry-pink.

 Another way to rev up one’s look is to play with a new hairstyle. “Whenever I am bored and need to update my look, I cut my bangs,” says Chan.

First Date Style
“First dates are more of the getting-to-know-you stage, so accessorize at a minimum,” advises Rodriguez. “You’d want your date to focus on you, and not on those huge chandelier earrings or that heavy bib necklace resting on your chest.” Since too much bling can be distracting, Rodriguez recommends subtle accessories like pearl earrings (which go with almost everything), paired with other classic wardrobe picks.

Long-term Charm
Whereas first dates require a little restraint and elegant simplicity, the opposite holds true for couples who have been dating for years. “Feel free to experiment!” urges Rodriguez. “If you’ve never worn cocktail rings or stacked various bangles before, it’s time to give them a try! Surprise your partner with something new, and he’ll surely be thrilled to see a different side of you. Just don’t overdo it -- one statement piece is enough and will definitely go a long way.”

Managing Your Assets
In the same vein as paying attention to proportion, “Every woman should know how to manage their assets -- bust, legs, flat abs, slender arms -- and be able to flaunt them without crossing the line between sexy and slutty,” advises Rodriguez. “Keep in mind that you just need to highlight one asset at a time. If you feel like you have all the goods, that’s something your date should look forward to on your second and third, and many dates to come.”

For busty femmes, try sweetheart-cut tops and dresses. And for those who have long and lean legs, try a long-sleeved mini dress (like the one mentioned above). One-shoulder dresses look great on those with slender arms, while full skirts perfectly accentuate small waistlines.

As for footwear, go for heels. “They’re sexy, chic and improve your posture. Just make sure you can actually walk in them,” says Rodriguez.

Confidence is Key
Most importantly, always take into account your innate style and personality. “When going out on a date, two important things a woman should have are self-confidence and the ability to laugh at herself when things don't go the way they’re planned,” says Chan. “Yes, it’s important to look good -- for yourself and for your partner -- but the main objective of date night is to have fun. Your personality is the most powerful and stylish weapon you have.”

Photo Credit: @iStockphoto.com/mbbirdy