Since 2021, we have decided to stay put in New York this summer. People who know me know that I always go to Turkey for the ultimate European summer vacation. Along the way to Istanbul, we always try to stop by somewhere in Europe. It makes much more sense this way because traveling is such a time-consuming thing—once we’re on our way to Turkey, we squeeze some European cities onto our list to visit. I always share so many beautiful places on my Instagram if you want to check my travels.
But since this year we decided to stay local, I want to enjoy the city as much as possible. So, I decided to put together this summer going out outfit ideas article for you to check out what to wear as your next summer dinner outfit or summer bar outfit.
New York is beautiful in every season, but it is getting even cuter with the permission of street restaurant dining since Covid times. Especially the West Village—the area from SoHo to Tribeca—is getting very charming with little Italian restaurants moving half of their occupiers to the streets of Manhattan.
Below, I’ve curated a full guide to 9 irresistible summer going out outfits that will make you feel confident, stylish, and completely at home in the city. Whether you’re heading to a romantic dinner, a rooftop bar, or a spontaneous stroll through cobblestone streets, there’s an idea here you’ll love.
1. Classic Looks for Chic Restaurants
When in doubt, lean into timeless elegance. Think of a crisp white button-down tucked into tailored shorts or high-waisted trousers. Pair it with strappy heels and a woven clutch for a balanced look that feels both polished and relaxed.
Why does this work for a summer night outfit?
Because it’s breathable, easy to style, and instantly elevates your evening vibe without trying too hard.
💡 Style Tip:
Use gold jewelry layered over a classic blouse to pull the look together. If you’re still curating your capsule wardrobe, this is an essential combination.
2. Sequins and Glimmers
Who says sparkles are just for the holidays? Sequins can absolutely be a summer dinner outfit, especially if you’re planning to dance the night away or pop by a late-night speakeasy.
How do you wear sequins in the summer without looking overdressed?
- Choose lightweight fabrics.
- Opt for mini skirts or cropped tops instead of full gowns.
- Balance shine with neutral accessories.
Power Tip:
Nothing makes an entrance quite like a sequin slip dress paired with minimalist white sneakers for an unexpected twist.
3. The Timeless Little Black Dress
If there’s one piece I’ll never stop recommending, it’s the little black dress. It’s the ultimate canvas—you can style it romantic, edgy, or casual depending on your mood.
Question:
Is a little black dress too basic for a summer going out outfit?
Answer:
Absolutely not. You can reinvent it with statement earrings, a bold lip, or metallic sandals. The versatility is unmatched.
Why you’ll love it:
- Never goes out of style
- Packs easily for trips
- Transitions from dinner to bar seamlessly
4. Sporty Chic
Imagine a tennis skirt, a fitted racerback tank, and crisp sneakers—suddenly you have a modern, effortless summer bar outfit that feels playful but intentional.
Styling Tips:
- Use a crossbody bag to keep it casual.
- Add a baseball cap for a touch of irony.
- If you’re meeting friends for dinner, swap sneakers for platform sandals.
If you already invested in white sneakers, this is your moment to show them off.
5. Summer See-Through Dresses
One of my all-time favorite trends is the sheer dress. With the right slip or bodysuit underneath, it feels breezy and a bit daring.
Question:
Are see-through dresses appropriate for dinner in NYC?
Answer:
Yes, if you style them correctly. A lined slip makes them sophisticated rather than risqué, especially when paired with delicate sandals.
Must-Try Combination:
- Sheer maxi over a black slip
- Strappy heels
- Small metallic clutch
6. Clean Girl Aesthetic
Minimal makeup, slicked-back bun, neutral-toned slip dress—welcome to the Clean Girl aesthetic. This look has been dominating TikTok and Instagram feeds for months, and for good reason.
Why it’s perfect for a summer night outfit:
It’s understated but chic, keeping you cool and polished even when the temperatures are high.
Key Pieces to Try:
- Beige or ivory satin dress
- Minimalist leather sandals
- Tiny gold hoops
If you want more ideas to create this vibe, check out my guide to the capsule wardrobe.
7. Animal Print Moments
Sometimes you just want to be a little wild, right? Animal print is back with a vengeance, and it’s ideal for a summer dinner outfit that demands attention.
Question:
Is animal print too bold for NYC evenings?
Answer:
Absolutely not. New Yorkers love a statement, and a leopard slip dress or zebra mini skirt fits right in.
How to Style It:
- Keep accessories neutral.
- Add a red lip for drama.
- Pair with black strappy heels.
8. Effortless Maxi Dresses
If you’re unsure what to wear, go for a flowy maxi dress. It’s comfortable, dramatic, and needs minimal styling to look put together.
Perfect for:
- Date nights in the West Village
- Outdoor dining in Tribeca
- Casual rooftop cocktails
Styling Hack:
Add a woven belt to define your waist and make the silhouette more flattering.
9. The Mini Skirt Revival
Mini skirts have made a massive comeback, and there’s no better time to embrace them than summer.
Why they work as a summer going out outfit:
They’re playful, leg-baring, and pair well with almost everything—from oversized blazers to cropped tanks.
Powerful Pairings:
- White mini skirt + colorful tank top
- Black leather mini + silk blouse
- Pleated tennis skirt + sporty sneakers
12 Summer Dinner Outfit
This summer in New York might be different from my usual European adventures, but honestly, it feels exciting to rediscover my own city. From romantic dinners in hidden gardens to spontaneous bar crawls in the Village, these 9 summer going out outfits will help you look effortlessly chic wherever you end up.
Don’t forget to browse my other style guides—especially the ones on capsule wardrobe essentials and the best white sneakers to complete your look.
If you want to see how I style all these outfits in real life, come hang out with me on Instagram, where I share daily looks and behind-the-scenes tips.
💫 Ready to elevate your summer style? Click here to shop my favorite pieces before they sell out.
