Whether to wear jeans on a first date is a common sartorial dilemma. Jeans are a casual, comfortable staple for many wardrobes. However, first dates call for an elevated level of style and effort. Ultimately, the acceptability of wearing jeans depends on the formality and location of the date, as well as personal style preferences. With some guidelines, jeans can be fashionably integrated into a first date outfit.
The Pros and Cons of Wearing Jeans on a First Date
Jeans have both advantages and disadvantages when worn on a first date:
Pros:
- Casual and comfortable – Jeans are a familiar clothing item that many find easy to wear and move in.
- Allows you to dress down a nicer top – Pairing dressier shirts or blouses with jeans can create a smart casual look.
- Conveys authenticity – Jeans communicate that you are relaxed and not overdressing.
- Provides versatility – The right jeans can transition from day to night dates seamlessly.
Cons:
- Too casual for some date activities – Jeans may underdress at formal restaurants or events.
- Risk of looking sloppy – Ill-fitting jeans or overly distressed pairs can appear messy.
- Less effort than other pants – Dates may expect more formal attire like dresses, trousers, etc.
- Associated with regular life – Jeans worn daily may not distinguish a date.
Consider the Type of Date and Location
The most important factors when deciding on wearing jeans are the date details like activity, time of day, and setting.
Casual Daytime Dates
For casual daytime dates like lunch, coffee, museum visits, or farmers markets, dark wash non-distressed jeans with a nice top are perfectly acceptable. The daytime timing and lower key nature of these dates match the casual vibe of jeans.
Upscale Indoor Dates
At upscale indoor night dates like cocktail lounges, concerts, or elegant restaurants, trousers, dresses, or skirts would be better than jeans. These spots have dress codes and environments less suited to the casual jeans look.
Active Outdoor Dates
For active outdoor dates like hiking, amusement parks, or casual picnics, jeans are recommended for mobility and comfort. The active components make jeans a practical choice.
Formal Occasions or Events
At formal occasions like galas, balls, opera visits, or upscale multi-course dinners, jeans are too underdressed and should be avoided. These events require more formal attire.
| Date Type | Jeans Appropriateness |
|---|---|
| Lunch, coffee, museum, farmers market | Appropriate |
| Cocktail lounge, concert, elegant restaurant | Not appropriate |
| Hiking, amusement park, casual picnic | Appropriate |
| Gala, ball, opera, upscale multi-course dinner | Not appropriate |
Choose the Right Style and Wash of Jeans
If wearing jeans on a date, pay attention to the style and wash details:
Dark Wash
Dark blue or black jeans appear dressier and sharper than light washes, making them first date friendly. A rich indigo wash looks flattering and put together.
Minimal Distressing
Jeans with minimal fading, whiskering, rips, and embellishments retain a polished look appropriate for dates. Lightly distressed jeans still appear neat and tidy.
Straight or Slim Fit
Choose straight leg, skinny, or slim fit jeans over baggy boyfriend styles with a slouchy shape. More tailored silhouettes flatter the figure for a date.
Higher Rise
High waisted jeans elongate legs and create a smoother outline. Pair them with a tucked-in blouse for a streamlined silhouette.
Ankle Length
Cropped jeans ending at the ankle prevent bunching and stacking, keeping them sleeker and dressier. Pair ankle jeans with heels or booties.
Style Jeans Thoughtfully for a Date Outfit
Build a first date outfit around jeans carefully:
Polished Tops
Balance jeans with elevated tops like blazers, nicer blouses, cashmere sweaters, or bodysuits. Luxe, smart fabrics make the look dressier.
Substantial Footwear
Solid boots, booties, loafers, or wedge sandals substantive the jeans so the look doesn’t feel too casual. Avoid tennis shoes or flip flops.
Well-Fitting Jeans
Ensure jeans fit slimly but comfortably through the hips and thighs. Proper fit prevents a sloppy appearance.
Minimal Accessories
Limit accessories to one or two refined pieces like small earrings, a watch, or interesting bag. Too many accessories appear distracting.
Neat Hair and Makeup
Sleek hair and natural makeup with neutral tones or pops of color polish off a jeans date outfit.
Guidelines for Men and Women on Wearing Jeans
Both men and women can incorporate jeans on a first date stylishly:
Women
– Dark skinny jeans with blazers, bodysuits, or silk camisoles
– High waisted cropped jeans with strappy sandals and tucked in blouses
– Cuffed boyfriend jeans with wedges and an oversized sweater
Men
– Dark bootcut or straight leg jeans with button-down shirts and blazers
– Black jeans with Chelsea boots and fitted sweaters or sweater vests
– Clean medium wash jeans with desert boots and casual sport coats
Consider Your Date’s Style and Preferences
Factor in your date’s style and sartorial preferences if known. Adjusting to their typical level of formality can showcase consideration.
If They Dress Up
Lean formal if your date typically wears suits, tailored pieces, and dressy looks. Match their energy.
If They Dress Down
Dressing slightly down can mirror their casual sensibility. Just avoid overly distressed or messy jeans.
When in Doubt
It’s smart to err on the formal side if unsure. Pants, dresses, and skirts signal effort more than jeans.
Weigh Your Personal Style and Comfort Level
Most importantly, choose an outfit aligning with your personal fashion sense and comfort preferences for optimal confidence on a date. Consider:
If you dislike wearing jeans
Skip them for pants better suiting your style, like tailored trousers or maxi skirts. Focus on colors and silhouettes you gravitate towards.
If you’re highly comfortable in jeans
Wear your nicest dark pair following the other guidelines. Leaning into familiar pieces brings ease.
If you prefer dresses or skirts
Opt for your best option in these categories over jeans. Perhaps a midi skirt with a silk tank or elegant wrap dress.
If you love mixing dressy and casual
Make this your date night style with blazers, heels, and luxe tops paired with dark slim jeans.
Conclusion
Jeans on a first date must be styled intentionally, factoring in date plans, style coordination, fit, and personal preferences. For daytime casual dates, attractive dark jeans paired with elevated tops and shoes work. But for formal occasions, skip denim. With the right considerations, jeans can be fashionably incorporated into a first date look. Most importantly, wear pieces that make you feel confident, aligned with your comfort level and sensibilities.
