What you wear on a first date is extremely important. Your outfit choice sets the tone and sends a message about your personality and intentions. Black and white are two classic date night colors, but each has its own implications. So how do you decide whether to wear black or white on a first date? There are a few key factors to consider.
Meaning of Black vs. White
Black and white each convey distinct symbolic meanings that can influence how your date interprets your outfit choice.
Black’s Symbolic Meaning
Here are some of the messages sent by wearing black on a date:
- Sophistication – Black is seen as refined and elegant.
- Confidence – Black embodies self-assurance and authority.
- Mystery – Black has an aura of the unknown and allure.
- Sexiness – Black can give off a provocative vibe.
White’s Symbolic Meaning
Some symbolic associations with wearing white include:
- Purity – White conveys innocence and simplicity.
- Freshness – White feels clean, crisp, and renewed.
- Hope – White represents new beginnings and positivity.
- Vulnerability – White can imply being more open or exposed.
So in summary, black implies confidence and intrigue, while white signals purity and openness. Consider which vibe aligns best with the impression you want to make.
Setting of the Date
Where your date takes place should factor into your black vs. white decision. Certain environments lend themselves better to one color over the other.
Venues Suiting Black
Black is perfectly apt for dates at:
- Upscale restaurants – Black tie dress code
- The theater – Sophisticated atmosphere
- Clubs – Dark, edgy setting
- Bars – Mysterious mood
Venues Suiting White
Meanwhile, white fits better for more casual, lighter dates like:
- Picnics – Daytime, outdoor activities
- Museums – Clean, bright spaces
- Coffee shops – Relaxed, friendly vibe
- Farmers markets – Cheerful daytime event
So match your color to the general ambiance of where you’ll be. Black for more formal nights out, white for more low-key dates.
Impression You Want to Make
Also think about the overall impression you hope to make with your date attire. What do you want them to perceive about you based on your clothing?
Reasons to Make a Bold Impression
Wear black if you want to seem:
- Mysterious – Keep them guessing about you
- Sensual – Give off sexual chemistry
- Powerful – Establish confidence and authority
- Dramatic – Make a striking first impression
Reasons to Make an Understated Impression
Wear white if you want to appear:
- Innocent – Convey wholesomeness and virtue
- Pure – Seem genuine and transparent
- Peaceful – Give an aura of ease and tranquility
- Free – Look open and available
So think – do you want to come across as more daring and provocative (black) or sweet and light (white)?
Your Personal Style
You’ll also want to take your own personal style into account when picking black or white. Consider which color best meshes with the image you want to project.
When Black Flatter Your Style
Black compliments people who identify with:
- Edgy – Rebellious, daring, hip
- Glamorous – Luxurious, indulgent, sensual
- Goth – Dark, melancholic, artistic
- Punk – Nonconforming, subversive, radical
- Sophisticated – Refined, elegant, polished
When White Flatter Your Style
White suits people with:
- Preppy – Classic, proper, understated
- Romantic – Dreamy, delicate, graceful
- Sporty – Active, healthy, vibrant
- Bohemian – Free-spirited, hippie, relaxed
- Minimalist – Uncluttered, simple, modern
Pick the color that best expresses your individual personality and style.
Level of Formality
The formality of the date itself should inform your black vs white decision. More formal dates call for black, while casual dates give you leeway to wear white.
Signs It’s a Formal Date
Clues you should wear black include:
- Going to a fine dining restaurant
- He/she mentions dressing up
- The activity requires nice clothes (opera, ballet, etc)
- It’s in the evening (not a daytime date)
- You met on a serious dating app (Match, eHarmony)
Signs It’s a Casual Date
Cues that white is fine:
- Meeting for coffee/ice cream
- A daytime activity (zoo, park, museum)
- Active date (bowling, mini golf, hiking)
- Mention of “casual dress”
- Met through a casual app (Tinder, Bumble)
The more formal the occasion, the better black fares over white. For daytime or active dates, white is less out of place.
Your Comfort Level
Finally, think about which color you personally feel more at ease and like yourself in. The goal is to wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
Factors Making Black More Comfortable
You may prefer black if:
- You find white too revealing for your tastes
- You feel black clothes are more flattering on you
- You don’t want to worry about stains/mess
- You feel more attractive and empowered in black
Factors Making White More Comfortable
You may prefer white if:
- Black feels too somber or serious to you
- You feel white brightens your complexion
- You find white more cheery and lighthearted
- You want to wear something new and fresh
At the end of the day, pick the color that makes you feel most at ease and like your best self. Comfort breeds confidence.
Conclusion
So should you wear black or white on a date? Evaluate the meaning behind each color, the date setting and formality, your personal style, and your own comfort level. In many cases, black is the more versatile and foolproof option for a first date given its refined, attractive air. But white can also work for more casual daytime dates or if it better suits your individual taste. Most importantly, choose the color that empowers you to feel relaxed, confident and authentic. With the right attitude, you can make either black or white work in your favor for a great first impression.
| Reason | Favoring Black | Favoring White |
|---|---|---|
| Symbolic Meaning | Sophistication, mystery, drama | Purity, innocence, simplicity |
| Date Setting | Evening, formal venues | Daytime, casual venues |
| Impression | Bold, sensual, edgy | Sweet, delicate, relaxed |
| Personal Style | Glamorous, goth, punk | Preppy, romantic, boho |
| Formality | Fine dining, dressy event | Coffee date, daytime activity |
| Comfort Level | Prefer sophistication of black | Prefer cheeriness of white |
