We all know the feeling- You’ve just given that handsome guy your number that you have been making eyes at the event/party/get together and two (statistically and girly-mag advised) days later- it’s date night.
Apart from the excitement and trepidation that proceeds a first date, most gals I know worry about one thing above all others- What to wear???
Some may say “how superficial” but fierce feminists aside I believe first impressions count and so does the way you look and feel. Not just for dates but for everyday life. Trust me, I’m miles away from a Millionaire Matchmaker (truth be told, I’m writing this as a self-help guide for myself too!) but hopefully I am going to offer you some first date tips that may avoid a first date fashion disaster.
Let’s be honest- if you’re lucky enough to have the time to date (and you’re already going on the date so you’re halfway there!), why not feel as confident and comfortable in your skin as you possibly can. Yes dates are a little awkward but to me they are kind of like romantic job interviews: two candidates, interested applicants and you are trying to see if his CV matches his actual skills!
Just like fashion, women are as diverse as the styles available so it’s nigh on impossible to give all encompassing tips that will match everyone’s taste- style is a little like picking a good man- it all depends on your preferences!
My biggest first date DO (apart from actually turning up) is to use the KISS approach- Keep It Simple Sweetie. Sounds easy right? But I think the biggest mistake people make is to overdo a look. If you have a great pair of jeans that all your pals tell you they love then wear them! You will feel more secure and you can dress them up with a great little top, fitted knit and jacket and it won’t look like you have spent hours in front of the mirror.
Another tried and tested do is the dress. Guys love a girl in a dress- it makes them feel more masculine and it gives you a powerful tool in your dating armoury- femininity. Never discredit this powerful gift gals! Now, a dress decision will depend on your size and shape but go for a design that fits in all the right places and skims past the bits that don’t. Colour, print and length are up to you, but nothing beats a sweet print in knee length that isn’t too tight.
Let’s not forget the feet! No matter what time of day or night you’re dating, fancy footwear can make a lasting impression. Go for options that flatter your fash choices- jeans and a blouse? Boots are made for walking. Cute little LBD or retro wrap frock? Ankle straps and the on trend mid heel will be your best buddies…
Soooo many options! But if you keep your look fresh and unfussy you are well on your way to that coveted SECOND date!
It would be remiss of me to not offer a few words of warning in the DON’T Department:
I would say the worst mistake ladies make when dressing for a date is to PUTV (Pump Up The Volume) Yes, sexy is well, sexy but if you turn up all Vamp He will more than likely think you’re a Tramp (Don’t blame me for this comment- ALL the guys I have spoken to agree)
Yes, some guys like a full blow-dry, fitted V-neck plunging dress and blood red lipstick but usually these guys go on LOTS of dates if you get my drift…
Red is Dead for a first date too- It screams sex and men these days are a more timid lot so you don’t want to come roaring in red and scare him away. Mind you, a slick of scarlet hints at your sexuality without hitting him over the head with it- think ruby accessories or accents of deeper tones in prints.
Avoid overly fitted outfits too- I mean you want him to see where you start and finish but exposing every inch will leave him little to imagine later. Remember this is a first date- not a Seven Year Itch last ditch date before a divorce! Save a little for later ladies…
The date itself is where I think you should shine- bowl them over with your stunning personality, breezy (not easy!) outlook and nothing is sexier than a relaxed and confident woman. At the end of the day wear what YOU love and it will show. The date is about two people getting to know each other and your style and choices say so much about you.
Now, all you have to do is decide if you want another! After all, he’s probably just relieved you turned up in the first place!!!
Image: Lover Cable Knit Sweater, Isabel Marant Boots, ASOS Scarlet Bag and Montique Floral Dress.