If you had asked me on a date to a bowling alley when I was younger, the answer would have been a resounding no. Over the past decade, however, bowling alleys have become cooler and more modern compared to the outdated, sticky-floored places from my childhood. With the rebranding came a hipper crowd and with it a plethora of people considering going bowling together as a date-night idea. This now begs the question of what to wear on a bowling date. Don’t worry; I have you covered.
Ideally, you should keep things comfortable and casual, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Think button-down shirts styled just so, cozy sweaters, cool jeans, and more.When it comes to shoes, it’s best to stick to flat options like sneakers or slides, but you can totally make a pair of kitten heels work with the right low-key look. Just don’t forget to bring your own socks—bowling shoes are notoriously icky.
With all this in mind, I rounded up 11 inspiring outfit ideas that are perfect to wear on a future date night at a bowling alley. Check them all out below.
Marianne Smyth wears a green button-down shirt, ripped jeans and Birkenstock Boston clogs.
Switch up your usual button-down with this tie-front version.
These distressed jeans have the perfect amount of slouch.
Good luck securing a pair of these clogs this season—they are one of the hottest shoes of the moment.
Sylvie Mus wears a cozy brown cardigan layered over a white button-down shirt and long black shorts.
I love the asymmetrical ribbing of this cool cardigan.
These denim shorts are a steal at under $50.
Raeann Langas put together a super-cute outfit featuring a ribbed cropped pullover sweater layered over a white turtleneck and high-waisted black leggings.
This ribbed sweater can easily be worn year round.
A basic white turtleneck top is perfect for layering.
These leggings are guaranteed to keep you super warm during the winter months.
Sara Ramén goes laid-back chic with a green tank top, yellow-gold chain necklace, cropped jeans, and slide sandals.
Linen top always have a luxe feel.
This chain necklace is on super sale.
These black jeans are a fashion-girl favorite.
Jessica Skye gives her white sweatshirt the fashion-girl treatment with crisscross jeans, a designer bag, and trendy sporty sneakers.
This sweatshirt is great for everyday wear.
Crisscross jeans are having a major moment.
Keep comfy and stylish in these sleek sneakers.
Adenorah is the epitome of cool in a black satin button-down shirt and flared jeans.
A black satin shirt for under $100? Yes, please.
This flared denim style comes in three great washes.
Leia Sfez gives her jeans the French-girl treatment with a black leather jacket and Nike sneakers.
This leather jacket elevates even the most casual of looks.
On reviewer called these jeans a “staple item.”
Classic sneakers are a no-brainer if you’re going casual.
Anouk Yve keeps things effortless in a neutral shirt jacket, a white T-shirt, black skinny jeans, and squared-toed black boots.
Whether buttoned up or layered, this neutral shirt is a great addition to a variety of outfits.
These skinny jeans are an H&M fan favorite.
I would have guessed these square-toe boots were designer.
Chrissy Rutherford elevates an otherwise simple shirt and denim combo with a statement white button-down shirt, ripped jeans, and classic black loafers.
Corset-style tops are trending at the moment.
These ripped jeans are popular no matter the season.
Black loafers help give outfits a polished feel.
Camille Charrière brings her tank top and trouser look to the next level with a pink sweater worn over her shoulders.
I have an affinity for chunky Barbie-pink sweaters.
These neural pants have endless styling possibilites.
Not pictured here on Camille are her trendy Samba sneakers—check out her Instagram to see the full look.
Abisola Omole’s ribbed top and frayed denim outfit is given a polished lift thanks to chic (yet comfortable) slingback kitten heels.
This ribbed top comes in over 20 different colors.
Dark-wash denim adds great contrast to a lighter top.
