How To Dress to Impress For A First Date
The first date with someone potentially really special: cue sweating, fidgety feet, and checking your phone every 20 seconds on the dot to be sure that you definitely got the time and place correct. Thanks to the internet, first dates are nerve-wracking, but nowhere near as difficult as they used to be. And chances are, a first date is no longer a standard movie + dinner affair: meeting at the pub for a drink, a visit to a museum or gallery, or going to see a show are all relatively normal dates. This does bring on outfit dilemmas, but don’t fear – the Urban Dater has got you covered.
Ladies
Regardless of the type of date you are going on, your priority should be choosing an outfit in which you feel comfortable, confident, and cute. A patterned skater or maxi dress, paired with a cardigan and pendant necklace creates a look that is chic, yet approachable. If the date involves being active, like going for a walk or playing sports, opt for a classic pair of jeans in your favourite cut, paired with a camisole tank top (if it’s warm) or embellished jumper (if it’s cold) and a sharp blazer. The ultimate question for many women, according to self-help author and dating expert Chiara Atik, is whether to wear heeled shoes or flats. Really, it entirely depends on your personal style and comfort. Biker boots are going to be more appropriate for a gig than your stiletto sandals, but if you like wearing high heels and your date involves plenty of sitting down, wear them. Alternatively, ballerina flats and slouchy boots work well with any outfit.
Gentlemen
Fortunately for you, the majority of gents will have fewer footwear dilemmas than ladies, but don’t get complacent. According to a recent survey, British men will spend up to £130 on grooming and styling ready for a first date, including haircuts. Standard first date outfits are easily customisable according to your personal style: a nice long-sleeved button down shirt with jeans, a cozy jumper, and converse trainers will do for a casual daytime date. By contrast, for a trip to a gallery or an evening dinner date, swap your jumper for a snazzy blazer and leather boots or brogues work well – don’t forget to polish them before you leave!
Pano Savvidis is an MSc Marketing graduate working in the digital marketing industry for over 5 years and specializing in content marketing new media strategies for mid-sized and large companies. His passions include travelling, swimming and listening to good music.
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