You have a first date tonight, eeek! You’ve been counting the days, and now it’s time to choose an outfit. Ugh. With so many things to think about, choosing an outfit for a first date can be challenging. Is the date casual? A romantic candlelit supper, a picnic lunch, or a casual coffee date? Will it be chilly in the theater, or should I simply wait for my date to give a jacket? Or even worse, what if the ideal clothing you chose a few days ago is now ruined, see-through, or torn?
Even the best of us experience it. The good news is that you won’t have to alter your appearance, sense of style, or the things you enjoy wearing in order to put together a nice date-night outfit. That will guarantee that you have a miserable night. Don’t undervalue the power of a great first date wardrobe, though. Wearing your favorite dress or the color that best suits your complexion will make you feel at ease and confident, especially if you’re sporting a look that makes you feel good about yourself.
You should also dress appropriately for the situation. Are you playing miniature golf on a choppy pier? The comfort of jeans will much outweigh that of a tennis skirt that keeps blowing up. For a hiking date, a matching cycling short and crop top pair is ideal, but not if you’re spending a lot of money on a luxury restaurant.
Wearing brand-new shoes, especially if you’re going to be moving about a lot, is a style faux pas to avoid. Even on the finest first date ever, blisters will make you uneasy.
If you’re going to the movies without considering the temperature, pack a denim jacket because they love blasting the air conditioning, and if you’re eating dinner outside and end up sitting in the sun, wear layers that you can take off.
If you go on a date in clothing that you’re not completely at ease in, you’ll spend the evening pushing down hemlines and fiddling with straps rather than getting to know your date.
For your first date, you’re going to want to look your best, and one of the easiest ways to do that is by putting together the perfect outfit. If you’re lucky enough to be hanging out with a good friend at a coffee shop or restaurant after work, you won’t have much time to whip it together. But luckily for you, we offer some handy tips for looking pulled together on the big day! First date outfit ideas are some of the toughest. Making sure your first date outfit matches your personality and that you feel comfortable in it is the most important part of the experience. Even though it’s a chance to get to know someone, always remember that first dates are just like meetings at work—they’re for networking purposes, so don’t dress too casually. A blazer, cool jeans and flats will make you look put together, with no need for high heels or sandals!
Outfits to Wear on First Date
Source: Jules Kennedy for The Everygirl
No matter how you cut it, first dates are usually preceded by a lot of nerves, at least a little bit of panic, and a handful of jitters sprinkled on top. The stress sets in, and before you head out the door, you second-guess absolutely everything—including the outfit you picked out after frantically googling “what to wear on a first date” all day.
Listen up: when you’re dealing with first-date nerves, the last thing on your list of stressors should be your outfit. First dates aren’t the time to reinvent the wheel when it comes to what you’re wearing; it should be something you know you’re comfortable in, and we’re here to help figure out exactly what that is.
Whether you’re heading out on a daytime coffee date or have reservations at the cool, trendy new restaurant in town, stop typing out a frantic text to your group chat, and leave the outfit planning to us.
Do’s and don’ts
Do
- Wear something you’ve already worn and know you’re comfortable in
- Break out your pieces you usually reserve for special occasions
- Think about what makes you feel the most confident
Don’t
- Wear a brand-new piece that risks being uncomfortable, like needing to mess with a falling strap or digging-in waistline
- Try to dress in a way where you won’t feel like yourself
- Overthink it
WHAT TO WEAR ON A CASUAL FIRST DATE
Of course, what to wear on a first date also depends on where you are going. Daytime dates tend to be more casual than evening dates, so jeans and a nice top is a fail-safe option. It’s a good idea to wear comfortable flats too, just in case there are any impromptu romantic strolls. If you need an extra layer, a blazer or a classic trench coat will keep you warm and smarten up the look in case it runs into the evening, which is definitely a good sign!
When it comes to accessories, you can allow yourself to be a bit more daring. Accessories are a good way of injecting some personality into your look without going overboard. A statement earring from any of the best jewelry brands or a color-popping shoe will jazz up that simple jeans and best t-shirt combo or add a bit of pizzazz to a more pared-back dress.
WHAT TO WEAR ON A FIRST DATE IN THE EVENING
Evening dates require a little more sartorial work. A printed midi dress is my go-to, especially if I’m dashing straight from work to the date. A swankier venue may require a pair of heels too—check out the best designer heels for some inspo, but if I’m just hitting the pub, a pair of box-fresh sneakers will give a dress that laidback, ‘I didn’t make too much effort’ edge.
If dresses aren’t your thing, you can also smarten jeans up with a pretty blouse and a pair of mules or strappy sandals. Avoid distressed detailing on your denim, and opt for darker shades if you want a dressier take. Mom jeans are flattering on all shapes, sitting high on the waist and tapering at the leg. They are super easy to dress up or down without appearing too ‘done up.’ Plus, they have a cool, vintage aesthetic that will give you a few extra fashion points.
WHAT IS THE BEST COLOR TO WEAR ON A FIRST DATE?
There are lots of so-called rules about color when it comes to what to wear on a first date. There has even been some research that suggests men are more attracted to red, but what if that’s not your color?
The fashion trends 2022 have dished up a lot of great trends, with ‘Dopamine Dressing’, being at the forefront. This trend is all about mood-boosting colors and so if you want to really make a splash, think about working in some bright color clothing to your outfit, or at the very least add a pop of bold color to your outfit through an accessory to a muted or darker outfit. Wearing color suggest confidence and that’s key on a first date.
To work out what colors what best for you, check out our feature on what colors suit me? As a starting point for which colors to wear on a first date. I wear a lot of green as it compliments my skin tone and matches my eyes. Smooth, I know!
WHAT TO WEAR ON A FIRST DATE: FIVE OUTFIT FORMULAS TO FALL IN LOVE WITH
I’ve rounded up the best outfit combinations that will work whatever date you’re having. So even if your date doesn’t turn out to be ‘the one,’ at least your outfit will be.
1. BLAZER + JEANS
What you need…
- The best blazer(opens in new tab)
- Casual tee
- Jeans
When a suit feels too stuffy for a date, opt for a blazer and jeans combo instead. The blazer will add instant polish to denim whilst the jeans will keep the look feeling more lowkey. You can keep the shoes casual and opt for a pair of the best white trainers for a daytime stroll or switch to a sleek sandal for a dressier date.
A styling tip…
Inject some personality into this look and add a fun accessory such as a chic scarf or statement bag. Or opt for a bright colored blazer to lift the look.
2. DRESS + CASUAL FLATS
What you need…
- Statement dress
- White trainers
- Cute clutch
This look is perfect for a springtime date. A statement dress is an instant outfit maker and the casual shoes give it an effortless edge. Perfect if you’re getting ready in a hurry, it needs minimal styling, just add a fun clutch and some delicate jewelry. You can always add the best leather jacket for an extra layer.
A styling tip…
Stick to longer-length dresses that are easy to sit down in. Floaty, a-line styles work best, offering a flattering and feminine silhouette that’s comfortable too.
3. BLOUSE + JEANS
What you need…
- Your best jeans
- A fancy blouse
- Comfortable heels
If dresses aren’t your thing, this is another easy look that has maximum impact, with minimum effort. You can keep it sleek and understated in a classic striped shirt, or be more daring in a bolder print or fancy embellishments. Keeping the focus firmly on your top half, it’s a great one for dinner dates where the rest of your look may be hidden under the table!
A styling tip…
If you opt for a high waist jean, tuck in your top or opt for a cropped blouse to show off the waist.
4. SKIRT + CUTE KNIT
What you need…
- Slim-fit knit
- Swishy skirt
- The best sunglasses
Mixing a more casual item with something dressier is a fail-safe formula for a pulled-together look that doesn’t scream “I spent hours getting ready”. A pleated or a-line skirt is super flattering and feminine. Pair with the best cashmere sweater for an extra luxe touch and finish with an elegant accessory.
A styling tip…
Both heels and flats look great with this look so it’s up to you how dressy you want to go. Comfortable flats, such as a sleek loafer—a big shoe trend for 2022, is a stylish choice, for keeping the look smart.
5. DRESS + MID HEEL
What you need…
- The best midi dresses
- A mid-heel
- Crossbody bag
Some dates, such as evening cocktails or dinner may require something a little dressier, which is when this combo steps in. Stick to classic cuts such as a wrap or shirt dress that nip in at the waist for a flattering silhouette.
A styling tip…
Comfort is key so unless you’re used to wearing sky-high heels, look to a block heel or low kitten heel instead. They look just as smart but can be a lot more wearable.
What should you not wear on a first date?
# 1 | Avoid Overly Revealing Clothing!
Keep in mind that you only get one chance to make an impression. A certain amount of modesty in first date dress may leave your date wanting more, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t show off your greatest features!
Pick ONE of your best qualities, and feel free to flaunt it. Are your shoulders making you fall in love? Put on an off-the-shoulder shirt. Taking pride in your lean legs? The best approach to draw attention to them is with a lovely high waisted miniskirt or dress.
When choosing your first date clothing, keep this one skin or one asset rule in mind.
#2 | Skip the Super High Heels (Even the Cute Ones!)
Leave those sky-high pumps at home; they’re just not appropriate for a first date. For a first date, even though they are ideal for a night out with the girls, you want to pull off a sensual, carefree vibe.
You should prioritize comfort above all else. You won’t be able to act naturally and focus on being yourself if you spend the entire night trying to heel-toe it. On the first date, we also don’t want any embarrassing mishaps or rolling ankles!
Wear a great pair of comfy shoes instead, such a cute open-toe sandal, a small-heeled pump, or block heel booties, and save the gorgeous stilettos for the third or fourth date. Regarding first dates, it’s best to abide by the two-inch guideline for shoes. Make sure to view my video about shoes that are damaging your style and making you seem ugly if you missed it.
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#3 | Ditch the Sweats
If you’re even considering wearing your favorite cozy sweats on a first date, please reconsider since this is a fashion faux pas. Yes, you can look cute in joggers and sweatpants, but not on a first date.
You don’t want to come across as careless and lazy to your potential new companion. Instead, choose a stylish and flattering pair of jeans, a dress, or a trouser. You may immediately change back into your cozy sweats after your date and tell your buddies how it went when you return home.
#4 | Avoid Too Much Statement Jewelry
While necklaces, watches, rings, and bracelets are necessary statement pieces for the majority of outfits, you should avoid wearing too many eye-catching accessories on first dates.
If you wear too much jewelry, it may overpower your appearance and may divert their attention while you’re attempting to keep their interest. Choose less large and dangly jewelry if you tend to fidget when you’re nervous; this should help you control your fidgeting.
Tip #5 | Sheer is Not Your Friend
Okay, don’t get me wrong, I am a huge fan of a sexy sheer fabric, like a blouse or cute top, but this is a faux pas for first dates. Avoid transparent tops and bottoms for date number one. Remember, there is a time and place for the see-through items, but it’s too risky for a first date and first impression.
It may sound a little old fashioned, but keeping a little sense of imagination will leave your date wanting more!
Tip #6 | Avoid Looking Frumpy!
Each of us has a favorite pair of vintage shoes, bags, or jackets. We just can’t bring ourselves to part with them, even though they appear a little worn. You should just leave your old favorites at home on your first date, no one is ordering you to toss them out!
You do not want to come across as unkempt or careless. Avoid wearing any clothing that has stains, holes, or pilling. Your presentation should be tidy, spotless, and just shy of professional. Even if they are your old favorites, it’s incredibly challenging to pull off that appearance in worn-out clothing!
Save your old, battered, worn-out, and beloved sneakers for a few occasions when you two will be a little more at ease with one another.
#7 | Avoid Fishnet and Patterned Stockings
There is a way to make fishnets and other patterned stockings look adorable, but they don’t belong on a first date! As much as I love a cute pair of stockings, they do come with a little bit of a negative stigma sometimes in the fashion world. If you love the stocking look, go for a darker shade of tights with a cute skirt and boots, rather than a fishnet or patterned look.
#8 | Avoid Distracting Patterns
I’m not a huge fan of prints to begin with. But I do love some bold prints when I’m trying to make a statement. But on date number one, I recommend sticking to simple patterns and solid colors, rather than mixing multiple patterns together.
If you want to go for a bold look, wear a simple patterned top with solid colored bottoms, or a funky-patterned pant with a solid color top. Too many mix-and-match patterns can look overbearing and distracting, plus it’s easy to make them clash! Be aware of whether or not the pattern is bringing attention to an area you don’t want attention. For example, those patterned pants could be really cute…but they could also be making your lower half look larger!
Don’t Wear Clothes That Aren’t You!
Be yourself! These 8 tips are guidelines and aren’t meant to be more than that! The most important thing is to let your personality shine through and be completely and unapologetically yourself.
Never be afraid or shy about what other people think about your clothes. They are the number one way to communicate your personality before you get to know someone. Show up on your first date in something that makes you comfortable and lets your personality shine through!
What are some things you avoid wearing on dates? Let me know in the comments! And, KEEP SCROLLING to see some of my favorite date night finds!
