How is an engagement carried out in Islam? Is it permissible for the prospective groom and bride to go out to public places? Is it permissible for the prospective bride to adorn herself for her fiancé?

If a man wishes to marry, he should first seek a religious woman, then seek guidance from Allah (istikharah). If he feels reassured, he may look at her and at what prompts him to propose to her, without being alone with her, or he may send someone to describe her to him. Then he should inform her or her guardian of his desire. If she agrees, it is permissible to sit with her in the presence of a mahram (definition) and look at her face and hands to observe her beauty without lust. If she pleases him, he may proceed with the marriage. If she does not please him or he does not please her, he should be honest. It is permissible to hold engagement celebrations without forbidden acts such as intermingling (of sexes), the fiancée adorning herself excessively in front of the fiancé, wearing engagement rings, or touching any part of her body. It is not permissible for the fiancée to be alone with her fiancé or to go out with him by herself, as he is still a stranger (non-mahram) until the marriage contract is concluded. After the contract, it is permissible for her to sit in front of him, adorn herself for him, and go out with him, while observing Islamic and customary etiquette and seeking her guardian's permission.