There are few things in life that can make a person's palms sweat more than a first date. Since you cannot prepare for most anxiety-inducing date scenarios ahead of time, there are definitely somethings that you can control and one among them is your dress/outfit.
It is but natural to stress out over a first date outfit. You should ideally wear what makes you feel like the most comfortable, best version of yourself.
Needless to say, when you dress well, you feel more empowered and confident and consequently, you show up appearing as such- radiating the positive energy that you internally feel.
In terms of what to wear on a first date, there are so many 'rules' floating around that it can be hard to separate the good from the not-so-good. That being said, there are a handful of useful tips that are applicable in almost any first date scenario.
1) Always wear something fresh: One of the ways to instantly make yourself more attractive to others is to be presentable in your clothing. It is not so much the label, trend or level of formality, but rather that your clothes fit well and look clean.
Perhaps the most important part of your first date outfit has nothing to do with clothes, accessories, makeup, or hair. Instead, it is about headspace. First date stress and nervousness can be difficult to avoid, of course, so you should try your best to minimize the emphasis you put on your outfit for the event. You already likely have other things on your mind to give more attention to, so do not let the clothes you are going to wear add to it.
2) Dress for the place: Even if you look great and feel incredibly comfortable in your favorite spaghetti strap dress, a serious art gallery might not be the best location to flaunt it. And the same goes for a nice restaurant: Your favourite frayed jeans and band T-shirt, though comfy, might not cut it for the dress code. So keep in mind what you will be doing or where you will be going for the date while you choose what to wear on first dates. Dressing for the occasion or date activity is probably one of the most important aspects, especially when it comes to comfort. While five-inch heels might look fabolous, you will definitely be regretting them if you are walking around all day. Nothing makes you feel less confident than blisters!
3) Dress according to the weather: Similarly, keep the temperature and time of day in mind when choosing an outfit. If anything, it might allow you to add an extra element to your look, such as a trendy leather or denim jacket. Also dress with versatile pieces to accommodate weather changes or outdoor eating.
4) Do not overdo your hairstyle: Unless doing hair is a special talent of yours, spending lots of time on your hair might not be the optimal way to invest your energy when getting ready. And the same goes for styling it in a way that will require lots of finessing during the date. Your everyday hair is perfect for a first date. Do not spend too much time on a style — less is more here. If you do want to style it a bit, try going for a tousled wave, a half-up style, ponytail or something else that doesn't take too much hassle and won't need adjusting throughout the date.
5) Do not go overboard with your perfume: There is nothing wrong with having a signature scent, but you certainly don't want to be wafting fumes (no matter how good they smell) wherever you go. It is important to remember that although scent is always memorable, too much can be overpowering. After all your perfume shouldn't be so memorable that it's the only thing your date remembers from the day or night.
6) Let your makeup blend in: As with the rest of your outfit, you do not want what you are wearing in terms of makeup to detract from being your truest self. If you are someone who wears a bright pink lip and bold eyeliner then absolutely show off exactly what you are all about. But if that's out of the norm for you, it's probably best to stay clear of anything extra new. That is not to say that you should avoid any extra pops of colour if it makes you feel fun and flirty. Keep it to your everyday makeup, or maybe throw on a red lip if you want something a bit spicier.
7) Refrain from extra tight clothing: Well first dates can be uncomfortable enough as it is, so why put yourself through the misery of wearing an outfit that is uber tight when you could be wearing something you feel good in? Also sexy does not necessarily mean skin-tight, so if something loose makes you feel more at ease, then definitely go for that. But ultimately, whatever makes you feel most confident is the way to go.
8) Do not flaunt too many accessories: Instead let one piece be the star of the show. Wear your everyday jewelry and make one statement swap — for example, swap your studs with a statement earring that is not too heavy or noticeable. Overall, you do not want your accessories stealing your personality's spot (as the most memorable thing about you). Too many accessories can detract your conversation too.
9) Wear the right shoes: The brand new, sparkling pair of shoes you have might be alluring, especially because they are so clean and shiny, but you never know how an unworn shoe is going to treat you. Remember, if your feet hurt, you will have a terrible time no matter how fun the date. Footwear being uncomfortable can be the downfall of even the best nights. Therefore wear true versatile footwear and unfussy pieces.
10) Wear your confidence: The most important part of your first date outfit is staying true to who you are and having confidence. Never try too hard to impress and be yourself. Also dress more for yourself. Authenticity and confidence in yourself is the most attractive attribute. Remember that in the end, it is all about wearing what makes you feel good about yourself. With the right attitude, you can pull off anything — including getting through a bad date.
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