How to Dress for a First Date

So you’ve got your first date all planned – but what on earth are you going to wear?!

You only get one chance to make a first impression, so you need to think carefully about what you should wear to a first date. Though not all first impressions are about looks, they do play their part. Besides, making an effort will let the other person know that you’re into them! 

Choosing the right outfit is about more than just looks, however. When you wear something that is comfortable and makes you feel confident, you can truly be yourself. 

By using tips backed by science and behavioral experts we’ve come up with some great tips to help you nail your first date outfit. By applying some of these actionable tips, you’ll look more confident and approachable for anything from a first date to a job interview! 

Tips for Dressing for a First Date 

  • Try a new outfit

Buying a new outfit is an easy way to boost your confidence before a big event like a first date. But not everybody has a lot of disposable cash to splurge on a new outfit. Thankfully, there’s an easy way that you can shop for some new clothing, shoes, or accessories to blast your confidence through the roof. Try shopping with coupon codes!

Budget-friendly brands like Shein allow you to redeem free coupon codes you find online for massive savings at checkout. All you need to do is find a verified Shein coupon code and apply it before you make your payment to enjoy your discount. 

  • Wear red or black

Still can’t decide what to wear? Try red or black! Not only are red and black considered to be romantic colors, but studies actually suggest that they might make you look more attractive to your date. This is probably because we have so many subconscious ties with the color red and romance such as hearts, Valentine’s Day, and red roses. 

The same study found that black, although less popular than red, was still rated as a highly desirable color among potential partners. 

So if you’re digging through your closet trying to find something to wear, go for black or red! 

  • Go light on the makeup

A 2011 study funded by Procter & Gamble found that wearing makeup can be a great way to boost your confidence. But they also found that a full face of makeup isn’t always perceived as attractive or trustworthy. It’s best to go for a natural look. 

When asked to compare 4 different makeup styles from almost natural to heavy makeup, and give them a rating on things like attractiveness and likeability, viewers scored women with the most natural makeup as the most confident and attractive. 

  • Go for comfortable and approachable clothing

If you love designer or trendy clothing, you might want to find an old pair of jeans to pull out! Designer clothing or clothing that’s super trendy might give off the appearance that you’re materialistic or unapproachable. 

Go for comfortable, classic staples like a button-up with jeans or a little black dress to look fashionable yet approachable. Stick to solid colors, and small accessories, and avoid loud prints to avoid distracting your date. All the attention should be on you! 

  • Be yourself 

When it comes to personal style, the most important thing is to always be yourself. It might sound cheesy, but you want people to get to know you for your authentic self. While clothing might not say much about you on its own, it can give you the confidence to let your personality shine through. So above all else, choose an outfit that makes you feel confident!