Weeknight dates are a vibe. I mean, any excuse to get dressed up on a weekday is fab. But, being the busy 9-5 babes that we are, we don’t have the luxury of hours to get ready with a glass of wine and endless outfit options.
I must say; I’ve perfected the work-to-going out outfit transition. All you need is a good base, a pair of heels and some creativity. So, if it’s not your forte (yet), don’t worry. I’ve got you covered.
I recently got some super cute work dresses from Aussie label BEYOND By Bea, and transformed them into sexy date night looks in under five mins after a busy day WFH.
Really, it’s a skill born out of necessity, as I seem to keep planning dates and friend catch-ups with only half an hour to spare between work. And there’s nothing worse than being late to a date, right?
Below, I break down where to shop these items and guide you through transforming your work outfits into date outfits in a literal snap of your fingers.
Outfit #1
In the first look, I’m wearing the Maeve Dress ($180) from BEYOND By Bea, which is already such a good, versatile base. This is the kind of dress that could be dressed up or down very easily — as demonstrated in the reel. When paired with a chunky coat and loafers (mine are from Tony Bianco), it works as a dressy-casual work outfit.
Then, when jazzed up with a pair of gold heels — like these London Rebel Wide Fit heels ($56) — and some statement hoops (mine are these Westward Pearl Hoops ($199) from Chosen By Kyha), the outfit is instantly elevated to date attire.
Outfit #2
In the second look, I’m wearing this minimal Rhyder Dress ($179) from BEYOND By Bea, which I’ve paired with this simple Wyn Necklace ($120), some patent platform combat boots and a cute thrifted bag.
This look is edgy and adorable for a work day, and if the date was something casual — like a gig — I’d probably wear it out too. However, if you’re looking to woo your future boo, then I’ve shown you how you can do just that!
First, I stuck my hair up in a messy ponytail — changing your hairstyle always changed the look. Then, I chucked on some of my favourite red lippy (M.A.C Satin Red $32) and some black pointy stilettos, like these Nine West Talon heels ($159). I mean, really, you can’t go wrong with some red lippy and heels!
Overall Tips
- When in doubt, add heels. If you’re not totally sure how to jazz up your look, I can guarantee that heels always elevate everything. So, if nothing else, pack a pair of heels in your work bag.
- Lipstick is powerful. Lipstick always makes an outfit more dressy; whether it’s a rich plum colour or a bold red — if you’re going for sexy, lipstick will always get you there. Plus, it’s one of the easiest ways to look “done up”, without trying.
- Keep hair tools in your bag at all times. Like I said above, changing your hairstyle always makes you feel like you’ve changed outfit. I keep a hairbrush, bobby pins and hair ties in my bag always, so I have hair options.
- Go through the make up / perfume counter on the way to your date. If you get to work and realise that you’re not prepared, just make a detour on the way to your date through the make up and perfume counters at David Jones or Myer. Spritz yourself with something delicious and ask to try a mascara and lippy — or whatever you’re feeling. It’s seriously a genius way to make yourself feel cute after a big day at work.
