Date Night Style - Hi Sugarplum!

Spring has finally, and officially, sprung! Which means wedding season is upon us. And bridal showers. And Easter. And all the soirees Spring and Summer has to offer. I’ll jump at any chance to wear a dress, but there’s no beating getting gussied up with this guy.

We’ve got a few years under our belts (23 together! Read our story here.), so I’ve learned a few things…or should I say, tricks…when it comes to getting dressed up with Mr. SP. I presume he’s like a lot of men, and doesn’t want to be told what to wear. And of course, comfort is always key. (Men don’t get that beauty is pain!) 😉

So when an occasion requires he step-up his style game, I always make sure to be dressed first. Then the conversation usually goes like this:

Me: *Prancing out, fully gussied up* (he’s still in sweats at this point).
Mr. SP: Whoa babe, you look great!
Me: Thanks!! I love this DRESS!
Mr. SP: Oh wait, this thing tonight is that dressed-up?!?!? (slight panic in his voice, visions of flip-flops dancing in his head)
Me: I mean, yeah. But wear what you’re comfortable in.
Mr. SP: But you’re wearing that?! (reality kicking in)
Me: Yes. You can wear jeans, though. Oh, but a sports coat would look great with them. A tie would be fun, too!

And then walk out of the room!! No more discussions (or opportunities to negotiate!!). Then give him full reign of the bathroom and closet! This last part is key, because he doesn’t want an audience while he comes to terms with a sports coat and tie. (Even though he’s the one who bought them in the first place!)

And as soon as he comes out, carry on about how hot he looks, and how much fun you’re going to have that night! #endscene

One-Shoulder Dress | Nude Sandals | Tassel Earrings | Similar Clutch

One-Shoulder Dress | Watch | Bracelet

He actually loves clothes, but likes to find things for himself. #picky Usually when he accompanies me to Nordstrom, he wanders out of the dressing room after awhile, and I later find him in the Mens department…or even more likely, their massive shoe department. It seems shoe weakness runs in the family.

He favors the trim-fit shirts and jackets, so he doesn’t feel like he’s wearing his dad’s suit. But prefers to keep it on the more casual side, and pairs them with jeans whenever he can get away with it. It’s taken some time, but I’m finally steering him to a more straight leg jean, rather than just relaxed fit (he likes the Mavi brand available at Nordstrom because of their washes and plain pockets).

His work style is fairly casual, so he just ditches the jacket and tie…and sometimes wears these sneakers instead.

Me on the other hand, will choose a dress whenever I can! And this one-shoulder is a stunner…perfectly tailored fit, vibrant colors, and classic style. And pockets. Never overlook the power of a pocket.

Fit Tip: It runs true and I’m wearing a regular 2. I paired it with this genius bra to help fill out the top a bit more. The shoulder stays in place, too, so you’re aren’t tugging at it all night.

One-Shoulder Dress | Nude Sandals | Tassel Earrings | Similar Clutch

You could also throw a blazer or this jean jacket over the dress to make it suitable for work or church. It’s just too much fun to wait for a special occasion! Do you have any special events coming up this season? Does your man drag his feet about getting dressed up, or jump at the chance? See more of our Date Night Style posts here.

P.S. Can you tell I’m sporting the faux-tan in these pics?! Check out my self-tanner tips here.

{Shop Mr. SP’s Work to Weekend Look}

{Shop My Look}

{Shop More Summer Soiree Dresses}

Photos by the darling & talented Mary Summers.

*This post is created in collaboration with Nordstrom, but all clothing, ideas, and rug-cutting are my own. Thank you for supporting Hi Sugarplum sponsors!*