To start with, don’t stress. First dates can be awkward, but they can also be fun. Don’t worry about what you will talk about. That’s always the easiest part of a first date. The problem here is what to wear.
First of all, where are you going? The location of your first date will determine a lot. If you are going to an upscale restaurant, playing putt-putt, or just meeting for coffee, your wardrobe will need to fit.
If you are going somewhere nice and indoors, you have a lot of options. A modest skirt, some high heels, and a nice top will usually work out well. If you are uncomfortable in either heels or skirts, then DON’T wear them on the first date. There is enough uncomfortableness already. A good alternative would be a nice pair of slacks and a nice shirt.
Be sure the shirt is not too low-cut or you could send the wrong message. Some low heels keep it dressy without being hard to walk in, but even an attractive pair of flats are acceptable. Keep the bling to a minimum. You don’t want to scare him off thinking you have expensive tastes. A simple pair of earrings and a matching necklace works best.
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If you are going outside, dress accordingly. Find out what the temperature is expected to be. If you can’t, then dress in layers. You don’t want to freeze to death, but you certainly don’t want to sweat like a pig either. Don’t wear a skirt. Between the wind and your activities, it will just get in the way. A casual pair of Dockers or even a nice pair of jeans will do great. Remember that you want to make a good first impression, so don’t go too casual.
You can spruce up your outfit with some jewelry and a fun pair of flats. Unless you’re going hiking or for a jog, leave the Nikes at home. Make sure you can bend and move in your shirt without worrying about anything falling out or twisting up. Remember, you want to have fun not worry about a wardrobe malfunction.
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Last but not least, the obligatory coffee meeting. Coffee houses are casual, so don’t worry too much about your outfit. If you are coming straight from work, don’t worry about changing. Any outfit is acceptable at a coffee house. This is the least stressful ‘first date’ ever. Also the cheapest. Your personality will be on display here, so chill.
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Finally, what kind of message do you want to send? Remember that every outfit sends some kind of message. Men are high on the visual aspect, so you want to impress, but be careful not to go overboard. A low cut top or a short shirt send the message that you’re easy. Too much jewelry means you’re high maintenance, too much make-up means you’re hiding something. Super-high heels mean you’re looking for sex, boring flats mean you’re a prude. Be aware of the message your outfit is sending. You certainly don’t want to confuse them any more than is strictly necessary. Good luck!
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Mary Edwards is one of the contributors and editors for dating sites. She is passionate about thought leadership writing, regularly contributes to various career, social media, public relations, branding, and parenting and online dating community. She can be reached at edwardsmary936 AT gmail DOT com.
