New members often ask us what to wear on their first date out with their matches, and as a lover of all things fashion, it kills me every time I just tell them “you know, something business casual, but a little sexier.” I always want to give more details; I usually wish I could just go style every single person before his or her date! Here are a couple tips and outfit examples for a dinner date at a nice restaurant that are sure to wow your date and make a great first impression.
For the ladies, a bold colored cocktail dress that still maintains enough of a business-casual with a hint of sexy look works best. Don’t forget: only show off one asset at a time! Accessories are where you can show off your personality, but don’t go overboard. Be careful with jewelry: you may think that giant octopus ring shows that you’re “quirky and fun” but it really just seems...odd. I recommend a chunky bracelet with simpler earrings, or a simple necklace with a cocktail ring. Choose one area to go bold. No big logos either, anywhere on the outfit for that matter. Instead of seductively purring “Look at me…” it can scream “Label whore!” Last but not least: shoes! A close guy friend once told me that many men think strappy heels are the sexiest, and I’ve found it to be true in my own dating experience. A shoe can change an outfit's attitude, either turning you into a goddess or an old frump! I’d say stick with the simplest strappy shoe you can find, or a platform closed- or peep-toe pump in a solid color. Remember, nude shoes always makes your legs look longer. Last but not least, add a chic clutch. A big purse on a first date looks pretty weird…I learned this unfortunately from experience! But you need to have somewhere to keep the lip gloss and cell phone.
For the gentlemen, I recommend a boot-cut pair of dark-wash jeans (with SIMPLE pockets!) that make your butt look good. A black (or other solid neutral) jacket looks good on top, like you made effort to dress up for your date. A long-sleeved (never short-sleeved- creepy alert!) button-down shirt underneath is also a first-date staple. Keep it pretty simple, no crazy patterns or neon colors, but it can have a little personality to it as well, like a patterned trim that only shows a bit. As for shoes, a black leather or suede loafer looks best with dark jeans. It’s hard to go wrong with Salvatore Ferragamo, but make sure you don’t get patent leather shoes! You'll probably end up looking like you’re on the way to tap class. Also avoid man jewelry…it’s outdated and dorky. The only acceptable form is a nice (not cheesy) watch.
Hopefully this advice can help our daters out and put a little swagger in their step…knock ‘em dead sexy singles!
