Deciding what to wear on a first date can be a tricky affair for guys. You want to look put together and attractive, but you also don’t want to come off like you’re trying too hard. The key is striking the right balance between dressing up while still looking natural and like your true self. Here’s a look at some of the main factors to consider when choosing an outfit for a first date:
Dress for the Setting
The most important factor is choosing clothes that are appropriate for where you’re going on the date. If it’s a casual coffee date, jeans and a nice shirt are probably fine. For something more upscale like dinner at a fancy restaurant, you’ll want to opt for dress pants or chinos and a button-down shirt. And if you’re doing an active date like mini golf or bowling, go for something sporty. The bottom line: don’t show up underdressed and feel awkward or overdressed and stick out.
Be True to Your Style
While you want to dress appropriately, you also want to stay true to your personal style. Don’t wear something that makes you seem like someone you’re not. For example, if you’re more of an artsy, creative type, dressing in a stiff business suit might not be the best choice. Think about what clothing best reflects you and choose items in that style that still work for the date setting.
Emphasize Good Grooming
No matter what you wear, good grooming is always important on a date. Shower, shave, style your hair, trim your nails, etc. Wrinkled, stained, or torn clothing is also a no-no. You want to look like you put effort into your appearance.
Pick Flattering Colors and Fits
Choose clothing in colors that complement your complexion and bring out your best features. Well-fitting clothes that skim your body without being too tight also tend to be more flattering. Avoid anything too bulky or baggy. Get a second opinion if you’re unsure about fit or color.
Break Out Nice Shoes
The shoes you wear say a lot about you. Freshly polished dress shoes or a nice pair of leather boots can add a touch of class and show you care about the details. Just make sure they match your outfit and are comfortable enough for whatever activities you have planned.
Accessorize Thoughtfully
Small accessories like a watch, belt, or nice pair of sunglasses can elevate an outfit without going overboard. Stick to one or two key accessories in metals and leathers that coordinate with your look. Don’t accessorize to the point of looking distracting or vain.
Keep Jewelry Minimal
In most cases, it’s best to limit jewelry to just a watch and possibly a simple necklace or bracelet. Save the bling for later dates when you want to come across as extra polished. And take out any body piercings that might be off-putting for a first impression.
Layer Up on Top
Layering a casual blazer, cardigan, or jacket on top of a t-shirt or button-down can add a touch of style while still looking natural. It also gives you flexibility to take layers off if you get warm. A light scarf or sweater can also work for cooler weather dates.
Mind the Logos and Graphics
While branded t-shirts and sweatshirts might be staples of your casual wardrobe, you’ll make a better impression by saving them for another time. Go for solid, minimalist colors, patterns and textures rather than conspicuous logos and graphics.
Get a Female Perspective
Women often have a good eye for male fashion, so don’t be afraid to recruit a female friend, sister, or coworker for advice. Ask what clothing or styles they find most appealing on men. Just be sure to get final say on what makes you comfortable.
Check the Weather
Keep the weather in mind when dressing for a date, especially if you’ll be walking to your destination. An unexpected downpour or temperature drop can derail everything, so check the forecast and pack an extra layer or umbrella just in case.
Iron Wrinkled Items
Wrinkled, crumpled clothing looks sloppy and conveys laziness. Iron or steam shirts, pants and jackets before your date to get them looking crisp. Pay extra attention to collars, cuffs and pockets.
Get a Trim and Shave
Facial hair and haircuts can go awry over time. Before a first date, get your hair trimmed and shaped up. Shave or neatly groom any facial hair. You want crisp lines, not scraggly growth.
Shower Beforehand
This one may seem obvious, but make sure to shower before your date, using deodorant and a lightly scented body wash or soap. You want to smell fresh and clean, not sweaty or like you just left the gym. Don’t overdo it with cologne either.
Clean and Clip Nails
Dirty, jagged nails are a big turn-off. Make sure to thoroughly clean under your nails and neatly trim and file them before your date. Also hide any hangnails or band-aids.
Whitening Toothpaste or Strips
A bright, white smile conveys health and confidence. Use whitening toothpaste and mouthwash before your date, or try whitening strips. Just don’t overdo it to the point that your smile looks unnaturally bleached.
De-lint and Remove Pet Hair
Carefully go over your clothing with a lint roller or brush before heading out. Check the seams and fabric closely to remove any lint, pet hair or clinging debris. Don’t let your clothing announce that you’re a slob.
Easy on the Cologne
Skip the whole bottle of cologne right before your date – just a dab will do. Heavy cologne can be overpowering in close quarters. You want a light signature scent, not something overwhelming.
Match Your Belt and Shoes
Men’s fashion rules say your belt should match your shoes. Keep this in mind as you pick out your outfit. When possible, go for leather shoes and a leather belt in the same tan or black shade.
Roll Up Loose Sleeves
Long sleeve shirts or sweaters with pushed or rolled up sleeves can look dressy but casual. Just don’t let your sleeves extended over your hands – it looks messy. Keep them rolled neatly to mid forearm.
Conclusion
In the end, dressing for a first date is about making a great first impression while still staying true to who you are. Avoid extremes like showing up in threadbare, stained clothes or a rigid three-piece suit. Instead, opt for neat, pressed items in colors and styles you feel attractive in. Groom yourself meticulously and add sophisticated finishing touches like a watch, belt and nice shoes. Most importantly, dress appropriately for the date venue and activities you have planned. With a little forethought, you’ll strike that perfect balance of looking put-together yet comfortable and confident on your first date.
