When you are in a relationship, it goes without saying that your wonderful personality and witty one liners should be more than enough to ensure your partner is firmly loved up, but no one can deny that looks is generally the first thing that draws you to a potential lover. This is especially true with online dating, where your decision whether to view someone’s profile or not is almost always based on their appearance.
Studies have shown that when you meet someone you judge them 70% on how they look, 20% on how they sound and only 10% on what they say, and dating is no different. That’s why when going on a first date with someone, it’s important to convey an attractive image of yourself. We’ve put together these top tips to help you decide what to wear.
Do: Be yourself
The biggest mistake that people make when deciding what to wear for a first date is to go out and buy a whole new outfit. Though it can be nice to buy a new piece of clothing which makes you feel attractive, a whole new outfit may take you out of your comfort zone, especially if the clothing is very different from what you would normally wear.
Most men say they prefer dating a woman who dresses attractively but casually, so that old faithful pretty top and jeans combo or your favourite little black dress are perfect.
Don’t: Wear new shoes
You know the story, you buy the most beautiful pair of shoes and proudly parade them on your next big night out, but by the end of the evening your feet are in ribbons and you’re wishing you’d stuck to those well worn in pumps you deemed too boring.
Do not make the mistake of thinking this won’t happen when you’re dating, it will, and there’s nothing more unattractive to a man than a moaning woman. Wear a pair of shoes you know you’ll be comfortable in, or if you must buy a new pair make sure to wear them in before the big night.
Do: Reveal the right amount
While you probably don’t want to dress like a nun while dating, do be wary of how much flesh you reveal on your first date. While stripper-chic may appeal to some men, they probably won’t be the ones looking for a long term relationship.
In order to give the impression of classy but sexy, an outfit which shows off your curves without clinging and shows a little skin is perfect. The age old legs or breasts rule is a good rule of thumb here, if you’re wearing a short skirt make sure you don’t pair it with a low cut top.
Don’t: Wear too much makeup
Smokey eyes and heavy false lashes may be the order of the day for girls nights out, but consider a subtler approach with the slap for a first date. The aim should be to enhance your natural beauty rather than hide it, so natural makeup with a slick of eyeliner or coloured lip-gloss is ideal. Overdone fake tan and strong perfume can also be off-putting, so less is definitely more when dating.
DO: Wear a smile
The most important of all the dating rules. Smiling puts you both at ease and is far more attractive than a frown.