Buzz
The first date can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, especially when deciding what to wear. Don’t stress! With some planning and preparation, you can confidently pick the perfect outfit. First impressions matter, and you’ll make a great one with a well-thought-out look and a relaxed, natural demeanor.
Steps
Plan Ahead
Consider the setting of the date. Whether you, your date, or both of you came up with the plan, think about the details of the outing. Choosing an outfit becomes much easier when you know what to expect during the first date.
- For a classic date like dinner and a movie, you’ll want to dress more formally and elegantly. Don’t forget to discuss the specific venue beforehand to know how to dress appropriately.
- For an outdoor date, a comfortable pair of jeans and a T-shirt or sporty attire would be perfectly suitable for the occasion!
Go shopping. There’s nothing wrong with treating yourself to a few new items for the first date, especially if you’ve planned something exciting and need a fresh look.
- While shopping isn’t mandatory, wearing something new shows you’ve put thought and effort into your appearance.
Try on a few outfits you’ve selected. Before finalizing your choice, try on several options. The perfect image in your mind might look different when you actually wear it. Also, ensure your outfit matches the occasion.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for opinions from friends or family.
- It’s a good idea to have a few backup outfits in mind for this special day, just in case of unexpected issues or sudden weather changes.
Wear an outfit that makes you feel most comfortable. First dates are already nerve-wracking, and you don’t want uncomfortable clothing adding to your stress. You’ll feel happier and more at ease in an outfit you love and feel confident in.
- If you feel self-conscious in tight, low-cut, or sheer clothing, avoid wearing those!
- Consider mobility as well. If you’re going dancing or horseback riding, choose an outfit that allows you to move freely.
Choose an outfit that reflects your personality. Everyone wants to look their best on a first date, but unless it’s a costume party, don’t dress like someone you’re not. Wear something that truly represents your style and individuality.
- This not only makes you feel more comfortable but also helps your date get to know and appreciate the real you!
- Of course, you want to impress your date, but don’t try to create an image you think they’ll like. Don’t pretend to be someone you’re not.
Ensure your clothes are clean and prepared in advance. You don’t need brand-new or expensive clothes to impress your date, but it’s crucial that your outfit is clean, wrinkle-free, and well-presented. Remember to wash, iron, or repair your clothes if necessary.
- If you buy new clothes, don’t forget to remove the tags. Sometimes tags are hidden in hard-to-see places, and you wouldn’t want your date to spot them!
- To keep your clothes clean and neat, consider hanging them with accessories in a garment bag.
Decide on a hairstyle and try it out beforehand. Depending on the type of date you’ve planned, consider styling your hair to match the occasion. Test your chosen hairstyle a few days before the date to ensure it complements your outfit. Avoid last-minute stress by not leaving your hairstyle decision to the day of the date.
- If you plan to wear makeup, try out your chosen look a few days in advance as well.
- Once you know how you’ll style your hair and/or apply your makeup, you’ll feel more relaxed, confident, and prepared for the special day.
Groom yourself a bit before the date. While looking your best is important, avoid doing this right before the date. Guys who tend to break out after shaving or girls whose skin gets red after tweezing should prepare a day or two in advance to allow time for recovery and to look their best!
- If you feel like you need to dress a certain way to impress your date, they might not be the right person for you. You deserve to be appreciated for who you truly are!
Preparation
Check the weather carefully. Before getting ready for the date, check the forecast for the time of your outing. Even if most of the date will be indoors, you still need to get there while keeping your clothes neat and dry.
- Bring a raincoat if it’s rainy, or swap long sleeves for something lighter if it’s hot outside.
- If the roads are wet or snowy, consider wearing boots and bringing a pair of nice shoes to change into at the venue.
- If you know your date’s size, bring an extra jacket, umbrella, or raincoat in case the weather turns bad and they’re unprepared. They’ll be impressed by your thoughtfulness and sweet gesture.
Shower and freshen up. Even if you plan to run a 5K during your first date, you should still show up clean and fresh-smelling when meeting your date. After all, first impressions last long after the date is over.
- If you need to blow-dry your hair before styling, make sure to leave yourself plenty of extra time.
Take your time getting dressed. When you’re nervous or stressed, it’s easy to fumble with a broken button, a stuck zipper, or a snagged stocking. Starting early is always better than rushing because you’re late. Give yourself plenty of time to get ready so you can handle any last-minute wardrobe mishaps!
- Have a backup plan. If something goes wrong, you can always wear the outfit you planned as an alternative.
Bring casual clothes as a backup. Even if your date is a fancy dinner at an upscale restaurant or a renowned ballet performance, plans can change. For example, the date might go so well that you both decide to grab ice cream or stay up all night watching classic movies together!
- Pack a comfortable outfit, and you’ll be ready to adapt to any situation!
Double-check to ensure you’ve prepared everything. If you need to bring a handbag, a water bottle, or park tickets, make sure you have everything necessary for a successful date.
- Remember to fully charge your phone in case of emergencies.
- It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash. If the date doesn’t go well, you’ll have money for a ride home, or if it goes great, you might want to order an extra dessert.
Don’t stress. Feeling nervous before a first date is completely normal, but don’t let your outfit add to the anxiety. Be confident in your choices, enjoy the moment, and focus on getting to know the wonderful person sitting across from you.
- If you’re so anxious that you feel overwhelmed, try practicing a calming exercise like meditation or deep breathing before heading out.
Avoid Fashion Mistakes
Avoid wearing too much perfume. Some people are particularly sensitive to scents, and excessive perfume can become overwhelming. Just a single spritz or a few dabs are enough. If you suspect your date might be sensitive to fragrances, ask them beforehand.
- You could say something like, “Is it okay if I wear a little perfume?” or “Do you mind if I use some scented products?”
- Deodorants are helpful, but be cautious not to overuse them, especially scented ones.
Skip heavy moisturizers. Even if you have extremely dry skin, consider avoiding heavy moisturizers right before the big day. First dates can be nerve-wracking, and you might sweat before calming down. Skipping moisturizer can help prevent a shiny appearance.
- As an alternative, consider using an antiperspirant or an oil-control setting spray. A light dusting of powder before heading out can also help.
Don’t overdo the jewelry. A few simple pieces to complement your outfit (if you’re going somewhere fancy) are enough. If you’re drowning in jewelry, it might distract your date.
- Another reason to avoid excessive jewelry is that it can get in the way. Depending on the location, it might also make you a target for theft.
Avoid tanning or drastic hairstyles right before the date. This is especially important if you’re meeting someone you’ve connected with online. While a tan might look great, you should aim to look like your profile picture. If you had long hair in your photo, keep it long for the date!
- Another reason to avoid tanning or haircuts before the date: the results might not turn out as expected. If your skin tone or hair gets ruined, you won’t have time to fix it.
- Sometimes, a haircut can be a good idea. For example, if your hair is uneven and messy, a skilled trim can remove split ends and give you a neat look.
