Date nights call for dressing to impress, even amidst the glitz and glamour of the Big Apple. As Nina Dobrev proved during an evening out with beau Shaun White, standing out from the crowd is all about chic simplicity. Attending the star-studded Saturday Night Live afterparty on Sunday alongside the Olympic snowboarder, the Perks of Being a Wallflower actress exemplified the power of neutrals in a textural all-black ensemble.
Anchoring Dobrev’s minimalistic look were a striking set of ribbed-knit boots. With their deep black hue and subtly pointed silhouette, the shoes added quiet drama while allowing the actress’ sculptural high-neck bodysuit and leather outerwear to take center stage. Delicate yet strong, the narrow stiletto heels elongated her frame as she strutted into 30 Rockefeller Plaza, where SNL hosts Adam Driver and Olivia Rodrigo held court following the show’s latest Laughing at My Nightmare-themed episode.
While Dobrev flashed photographers her trademark megawatt smile, all eyes lingered on her enviable footwear. Crafted in a thin, sock-like fabric, the sleek botties skimmed the ankles for a leg-lengthening effect. Paired with extensions like tacónes and mules for maximum impact, stretch-knits have dominated runways from New York to Milan as designers embrace sensuality over severity in an intimate apparel revival. Though Dobrev opted for a more low-key evening ensemble, her choice reflected the prevailing winds of fashion embracing the beauty of the natural form.
With her raven tresses freely cascading beneath a wool cloche hat and quilted Chanel bag nonchalantly slung over one shoulder, the Degrassi alum allowed her boots to punctuate the monochrome moment. In doing so, she demonstrated the power of thoughtful accessories even on an otherwise muted color palette.
While beau White opted for tonal earth tones in shaded outerwear and cargos, Dobrev held her own next to the snowboarding champion by keeping the focus on rich textures instead of vibrant hues or loud logos. In an era where personal style trumps trends, she proved that standing out often means keeping it simple. The key is in the details, like the light-catching gold charms on her heirloom Classic Flap purse or the way slim black denim showcases curves rather than hides them.
When the focus shifts from ephemeral fads to investment pieces that stand the test of time, getting dressed becomes less flash-in-the-pan and more true personal expression. As Dobrev illustrated during her Big Apple date night, building a distinctive yet polished aesthetic needn’t require a bursting closet or overflowing makeup counter. By putting quality before quantity and fit over finishings, she continues to inspire legions of fans to embrace effortless glamour no matter the occasion.
