Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

The Best Sustainable Date Night Shirts During Quarantine

stylish sustainable wardrobe
Image used with permission by copyright holder

As people around the world create new ways to be social while social distancing, our dating rituals have gone (even more) online. Zoom dates are the new “let’s meet for drinks” so that’s probably got you wondering: What should I wear for a Zoom date? Of course, our vote is always for something sustainable, but there are a few other things to keep in mind. Dress up, but don’t overdress. If you wear a T-shirt, you’re sending off “I don’t care” signals.

Recommended Videos

Even though you’re indoors in your own home, showing a little initiative on a date is always important. On the other hand, you can’t really wear a jacket indoors without looking unnatural, and it should go without saying, you should never wear a hat indoors. This leaves you with button downs and knits for up top. For the waist down, make sure you’re wearing pants of some kind. Preferably not joggers or sweats, but not slacks either. That leaves your favorite jeans. If you don’t already own a solid pair of jeans, head over to DL1969 or Nudie Jeans for a pair in your favorite fit and rinse. As for the waist up, that will depend more on your personality. Here are a few suggestions, based on your interests:

Loud Music, Motorcycles, and Whiskey

Taylor Stitch Mechanic Shirt

Taylor Stitch Shirt
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Taylor Stitch’s Mechanic Shirt is dark, rugged, and classic; the Marlon Brando of sustainable shirts. A dark button down is always a great choice for date night, and the oversized buttons on this one give it a unique, work wear personality. Taylor Stitch is a great company in terms of style, quality, and sustainability, so if you like this item, check out the rest of the brand’s collection.

Vintage Furniture, Literature, and Red Wine

Buck Mason Vintage Cashmere Shawl Cardigan

Buck Mason Cardigan
Image used with permission by copyright holder

This cashmere Buck Mason cardigan will not only make you look handsome and erudite, but also snuggly. Your date will be dreaming of the day they can finally touch you IRL.

Outerknown Plaid Shirt

Outerknown Shirt
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Pair this cardi with the S.E.A. plaid shirt from Outerknown for a pop of print and color.

Nudie Jeans Offwhite T-Shirt

Roger Slub Offwhite T-Shirt
Image used with permission by copyright holder

While you’re at it, throw in this classic white tee from Nudie. A layered look always feels pulled together, even if it’s casual, and that hint of white tee is sexy, suggesting what’s underneath. Meow.

Vodka, Late-Night Dancing, and Art

Nudie Jeans Camp Shirt

Nudie Jeans Camp Shirt
Image used with permission by copyright holder

The Arvid shirt is fun, just like you, and understands the balance between color and shape. Nudie is a Swedish company that has many great sustainable pieces for anyone who likes things a little different, like western shirts and leopard print sweaters. Go forth, wild one, and shop your date night look.

Netflix, Indie Rock, and Craft Beer

Buck Mason Oxford Shirt

Buck Mason Perfect Oxford One Pocket Shirt
Image used with permission by copyright holder

This is timeless and attractive, but thanks to its use of great color, not boring. The lake blue Buck Mason button down is a gorgeous hue and highly recommended for someone with light eyes or a medium to dark complexion.

Outerknown Rambler Shirt

Outerknown Rambler Shirt
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Another great sustainable option, roll up the sleeves to give it a little extra kick.

Buck Mason Cotton Sweater

Buck Mason Sweater
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Wear this vintage sweater over your shirt for a charming finish.

Choosing the right date night look is about showing your personality while looking handsome and friendly. Luckily, these sustainable options have got you covered.

Brandy St. John
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Brandy St. John is a celebrity stylist, musician, and writer from Los Angeles. She’s best known for styling rock musicians…
Protect your skin in style this summer with the best sun shirts of 2024
Better than sunscreen and chemical-free, these tops are purpose-built to fend off those "endless summer" rays.
Man fishing on a boat while wearing an Orvis DriCast sun protection hoodie.

When it comes to dressing for the summer heat, "less is more" seems to make the most sense. Less clothing means less trapped body heat, and that makes for a more comfortable you. For the most part, that works. But this equation doesn't account for protecting your skin against the sun's harmful UV rays.

For outdoorsy types – we’re talking the most adventurous kind, like trail runners, hikers, kayakers, mountain climbers, and so on – wearing less clothing while spending a significant amount of time in the sun can actually do more harm than good. Sure, sunscreen is a thing, and you should definitely keep using it. But that’s also where another problem arises: In order to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, sunscreen — even the best natural, reef-safe sunscreen — needs to be slathered on regularly. And, if you’re spending more time outdoors than in, that gets expensive, too. That's where good sun-protective shirts (a.k.a. "sun shirts") come in.

Read more
The best winter running gear: Our top picks
Make winter running easier with this useful gear
Man dressed in winter clothes running under the snowy weather.

Running is one of the healthiest activities that you could possibly do. Cardiovascular fitness increases your chances of a long and fulfilling life. It keeps you strong, mobile, and able to keep up with whatever life throws at you. However, the weather doesn't care about any of that, and the Earth continues to spin regardless of your New Year's Resolution. Therefore, you need to be prepared when the colder months are in full swing. Here is our list of the best running gear you can pick up to stay warm.

Tricks for running safely in the snow and ice
Running in the winter months includes many factors that the warmer months don't have to contend with. For instance, along with the dropping temperatures, you have to deal with snow and ice. Along with preparing yourself with the best winter running gear, there are other things you can do. Here are three tips for you to remember to sun safely in the colder weather.

Read more
The best Canada goose alternatives: Moose Knuckles, Moncler, and more
Expand your closet with other options for your outerwear
Man walking outside with coat in nature

If you are the kind of guy who doesn't like to spend his cold winter days behind a desk or sitting in a dark theater, then you likely want to check out some of the best outerwear for the season every time the temperature drops. Of course, there is the pull toward overcoats and peacoats if you are a city guy. But if you continually find yourself looking to the mountains and wilderness, then you likely look to a place like Canada goose for the kind of functional sportswear that keeps you warm on your adventure. However, they aren't the only game in town and if you're having a hard time finding the right coat, then here are the best Canada goose alternatives on the market.

How did we choose these brands

Read more