With many first dates comes the common crisis with us girls. What. To. Wear. Dress or jeans? Boots or heels? Hair up or hair down? Everyone knows how important the first impression is and how easily a wardrobe choice can affect the way the date goes, for better or for worse. Here are a few helpful tips to picking out the right outfit.
Pick something you already own. Think about it. You will feel so much more at ease and be more likely to act like yourself if you wear an outfit you already know you look good in. New outfits are exciting, but for the sake of feeling more comfortable in your own skin, play it safe and stick to what you know. Next, unless he absolutely insists on keeping the date a surprise, ask your date to tell you the kind of place he is taking you. Fancy restaurant downtown? Movie? Concert? Play? Caliente? Fro Yo? Try and feel it out beforehand to get an idea of the level of dress you feel is most appropriate.
If it’s a really nice restaurant, a play, or an art exhibit- then it’s a cocktail dress and heels, hair down and styled and 1-2 pieces of jewelry. Make only one of them a focal point, ie. dangling earrings+bracelet/bangle, studs+necklace. Add a little more sparkle to your makeup than you would for every day, but don’t go overboard. You don’t want to look like you’re trying too hard, or trying to hide something.
If it’s a movie, concert, or casual restaurant- go for a pair of nice jeans and a dressy casual top with boots or flats. Wear your hair down the way you would on a normal day. Stick to one simple piece of jewelry, and do your makeup a level above a nude/natural look. Play up one feature, and let the rest be subtly emphasized.
If it’s a sporting event or something physical like a hike- it’s okay to dress down. You don’t want to be that girl who shows up to a Golden Eagle baseball game in heels and red lipstick. Boys are more impressed with girls who feel confident enough in themselves to dress comfortably than those who feel the need to put on a show. Wear a pair of cute shorts (not Nike shorts) and a baseball style tee or off-the-shoulder cotton t-shirt in a color that flatters you. Wear a pair of sandals or cute sneakers, a headband piece (ponytail optional) and nude/natural makeup.
Do not wear your heart on your sleeve. The biggest turn off to most guys is any sign of desperation or neediness. Hold your own, and be confident. Do not be afraid to talk about yourself, and remember to also be a good listener. Wear your million-dollar smile, and don’t lose it!
It is important to wear something that accents your outfit to show a unique part of your personality. Don’t imitate someone else’s style. Take it and make it your own with a funky, but reasonable, accessory, or make a statement with the way you do your makeup. Whatever your trademark flare is, rock it! As long as you feel fabulous on the outside, it will be easy to let your inner beauty shine through.