Gabrielle Union [1] is a constant source of fashion inspiration [2], which is why we've turned to her nights out with husband Dwyane Wade for some killer outfit ideas. After all, "date night" [3] doesn't have to mean the same thing all the time — it could mean heading to a casual sports game or getting all dressed up for a night on the town. All these different date ideas can only mean one thing: lots of different date-night outfit options [4]. It doesn't have to be overwhelming to pick out a fun and flattering outfit. Ahead, check out some inspiration we've grabbed from some of Union's best looks, and see how you can get similar styles for the next time you go out, too.
Off-the-Shoulder Minidress
A short, patterned dress is pretty much a date-night staple [5], but if you want to take things up a notch, look for a dress with an unusual silhouette — like this one worn by Union, with a wide, nearly off-the-shoulder neckline and long sleeves to offset the short hemline.
Strapless Brocade Dress
For a slightly dressier look that's still unique and a little playful, try a strapless dress in a colourful, patterned brocade. The heavier, embossed fabric gives a little more heft to the look, but a beautiful colour and flattering cut keep it from looking like your old prom dress.
White Shorts and Statement Jacket
The base of this outfit is pretty simple: just a black top and white shorts. But with a funky statement jacket and large hoop earrings [6], it becomes a versatile and quirky outfit ready for a fun night out.
Bright White Separates
One part sporty, one part girlie, a fitted, slightly cropped top and a pleated skirt make for a fun (and comfortable!) date-night look.
White Tank and Denim Skirt
For a casual date, you can't go wrong with a simple white tank top and a frayed denim skirt [7]. Polish it off with a pop of bright lipstick and hoop earrings for a special extra touch.
Striped Dress and Coat
A midi dress with a tied waist and bold stripes can take you anywhere, from a casual daytime stroll to a dressier evening date. Throw on your favourite accessories and a coat if the weather requires, and you're ready to go!
Floral Shirt and White Pants
Slouchy, high-waisted white pants [8] can be tricky to style well, but paired with a fitted, colourful top and simple shoes, they make for a great outfit for a date night!
Floral Maxidress
The couple stepped out in Paris looking every bit prepared for Fashion Week in 2017. This is more of a day look, but paired with a leather jacket, it could easily transition to night.
Colourful Skirt and Sleeveless Top
For a Spring or Summer date [9], pair a colourful patterned skirt with a bright, solid sleeveless top and some strappy sandals for an effortlessly pretty date-night outfit.
Black on Black
Union gave us edgy biker vibes in 2017 with this all-black ensemble. Fringe? Check. Graphic T? Check. Peep-toe booties? Check, check.
Just a Lil' Bit of Bra
The sheer leggings may be a stretch for a movie night (we don't know your life), but a tiny bit of bra peeking out under an oversize sweater is a subtle way to show off your sexy side.
Black Sweater and Patterned Skirt
The cooler-weather version of a trusty tank-and-skirt combo is this outfit, with a lightweight, fitted black sweater [10] and a bold printed skirt.
Colourful Maxi Dress
You truly can't go wrong with a brightly coloured maxi dress [11] in your favourite print. It's versatile, it's flattering on pretty much everyone, and it can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion and venue.
Bright and Bold
Who wants to blend in? Not only are Union's two pieces structurally interesting, but the contrasting colours also draw your eye. Cinching things with a dark belt? Perfection.
Cropped Sweater and Jeans
A cropped, chunky sweater and light-wash, high-waisted jeans create a casual and cosy but still sexy look for a date night.
Matching Shorts Set
You may not be able to get your date to look at spiffy as Wade here, but you certainly can try out Union's unique shorts-and-jacket combo. The subtle pattern keeps this look from venturing into Steve Urkel territory.
Button-Down Shirt and Long Skirt
A pretty button-down shirt, with sleeves cuffed up, works for a date night when paired with an unexpected skirt, like this long, pleated, camel-coloured skirt [12] Union chose.
Colourful Draped Dress
Instead of a simple silhouette, pump up your date-night look with a drapey dress in a splashy, colourful pattern.
Plaid Two-Piece
Blazers and pants aren't just for the office anymore. A cool plaid pattern [13] on a low-cut jacket can turn this style into one perfect for a date night.
Asymmetrical Jumpsuit
Union gave us some major style inspiration with this look, which took the standard white jumpsuit [14] and shook things up with a cool, asymmetrically draped top.