8 Tips For Dressing Without Stressing For A First Date
You’ve got a date with a handsome guy you just met (not on Tinder, thank you very much!), and you want to grab his attention. Instead of searching through your closet in a panic, it’s time to take a step back. Regroup. Relax. Remain calm. We’ve got your date outfit covered—without all the stress.
Tip #1: When in doubt, choose red.
Why? Studies have shown that men think red to is the sexiest color on a woman. Researchers at the University of Rochester found that men who are shown pictures of a woman in a red dress want to ask her more amorous questions than men who are shown a picture of the same woman wearing blue or green.
Alternative: If a LRD isn’t for you, try wearing a red skirt with a black leather jacket. If you shy away from color, try red lipstick instead for the same effect.
Tip #2: A summer dress in a soft fabric is a good staple for any date.
Your goal on a date is to be approachable and, let’s face it, to look touchable. Accordingly, you want to wear something that’s flirtatious and feminine, specifically: a summer dress in soft fabrics.
Option 1: Pair this warm weather staple with a denim jacket or chambray shirt and little ankle boots for a casual, yet chic daytime look.
Option 2: Wear your dress with killer heels, which will convey you’re ready for a fun night out.
Tip #3: Know what flatters you.
A first date is not the time to experiment with a new, daring trend. It’s more important to feel comfortable and your best, which means wearing clothes that suit your body type and personal style. For example, if you have great legs, show them off.)
Tip #4: Know your style, and stick to it.
If you’re more comfortable in jeans, wear them! Just be sure to dress them up with a pair of sexy heels or a flirtatious top. As I say in my new book, Date Expectations, be yourself. Confidence is attractive.
Tip #5: Have a pair of go-to heels.
If you know you’re going to be walking a lot, avoid purchasing a new pair of heels that you will have to break in. You wouldn’t want a painful shoe to ruin your night, would you? Instead, stick with a style you know is comfortable and sexy, like pumps or wedges.
Tip #6: Have an outfit ready for an outdoor/summer date.
If he invites you for a picnic in the park, try shorts and a loose top with easy-to-walk-in wedges or chunky heels. For obvious reasons—like sitting on grass—a dress, especially a short one, can be tricky. Having a casual date outfit on standby is just as important as owning a LBD.
Tip #7: Don’t go crazy with make-up.
Again, this isn’t the time or place to experiment with daring beauty trends. The key is to emphasize your features. Avoid piling on concealer and false eyelashes, and draw attention to your gorgeous eyes with mascara and liner, or plump your lips with a bright peachy (not too sticky) gloss.
Tip #8: Try on your outfit the night before.
There’s nothing worse than imagining what you’re going to wear, and then being completely disappointed by it when standing in front of the mirror, ten minutes before your date arrives. Remove this kind of last-minute stress by choosing your outfit (and trying it on) the night before. Do it with a friend if you need support.