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Your ultimate guide of what to wear on a first date

Help is here! - by Francesca W
  • 15 Jan 2019
Your ultimate guide of what to wear on a first date

Is there anything more terrifying than a first date? There’s the sweating, the shaking, the nervous rambling (who knows what we said in the first twenty minutes, really) and all the anxiety that accompanies the days leading up. It’s awful — and picking the perfect outfit doesn’t help. Choosing the perfect first date outfit, whether it be a date-night-ready dress or the perfect pair of jeans (are jeans even ok!!?) is one of the hardest parts about the first date.

So, where do you start? We suggest, firstly, to take a deep breath. It’s just a date — and if you’re really meeting someone who likes you for you, they won’t care about what you’re wearing, really. We promise. Secondly, you don’t want to wear something that gives a false first impression about who you really are. Don’t turn up in a ballgown if you’re really a sneakers girl at heart. That being said, don’t turn up in a ballgown, full stop.

What do I wear on a first date?

Whether or not you’re expecting anything from the date, there’s merit in having a go-to first date outfit. Choose one outfit you feel really comfortable in, works for most occasions, shows off your sense of style and most importantly, doesn’t show sweat patches. You want your date to remember you for your personality, not your extra AF outfit that may or may not be borrowed from your most confident friend. In other words, stick with what you know — it’ll pay off. We suggest the classic: jeans and a nice top. Generally failsafe, a flattering pair of jeans and top can be dressed up or down depending on the situation and can be added to by a few simple changes. Whether it’s throwing on a blazer, opting for heels instead of flats, or accessorising with statement jewellery, the combination is a good starting point for most situations. Below, we round up some common first date locations and how to tweak your outfit accordingly.

Elsa date

What do I wear on a first date in spring and summer?

Easy — your favourite summer dress. Pair your favourite dress with a pair of boots or sandals and you’re set! This is one of those times when jeans might be best left at home. Your date will be able to tell your personality through your dress, and a fun print can even be a conversation starter. Otherwise, a mini skirt could be balanced out with a floaty top for something a little more pulled together.

Gigi Hadid

What do I wear on a first date in autumn and winter?

Winter is no time for taking fashion risks, especially not a first date. Opt for a pair of jeans and a casual jacket — think, a bomber, denim jacket or trench — for a fresh and easy approach to the date night dressing. If the date occurs at night and at a more upscale restaurant, opt for a slightly more polished dress or pair of trousers instead.

Kendall Jenner

What do I wear on a first date to the movies?

A cute dress might be fine for outside, but don’t forget how cold you can get inside the cinema. Opt for a failsafe pair of jeans, T-shirt and jumper to throw on once you’re inside. A larger bag is good for a movie date so you can stash your jumper once you get back outside.

Model

What do I wear on a first date to have dinner?

Perhaps the most formal of the date night outfits, a dinner date shouldn’t be overthought. Pair a chic pair of black trousers with a casual white T-shirt and a pair of low heels or strappy sandals for a polished take. Add in a statement necklace or your favourite pair of earrings and viola! Alternatively, a Little Black Dress and boots will never let you down.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

What do I wear on a first date after work?

If they know you’re coming from work, you’re fine to stick with a classic work uniform. Blazer, jeans or trousers and bit of shirting are perfect. Not only will you look sleek and grown up, an outfit with a structured jacket or collared shirt will instantly smarten up any post-5pm look.

Date night outfit

What do I wear on a first date to lunch?

Judging on the situation, a polished (yet still casual) dress is a good pick for a lunch date. Depending on the style of dress, you can add in heels to smarten it up, or opt for flats or sneakers if the setting is more casual.

See below for more first date outfit ideas. 

Barbara Palvin
Bella Hadid The Weeknd
Gigi Hadid Zayn Malik
Phoebe Tonkin
Zayn Malik Gigi Hadid

This article originally appeared on InStyle

Francesca W
Francesca W

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