Choosing the proper attire for a date can be an overwhelming task. You want to appear good-looking and well-groomed but don't want to look like you are trying too much or overdressed. The trick is to know how to blend relaxed with class, depending on where and what type of date it is.
This article aims to offer some guidelines on how to dress fashionably yet appropriately in varying dating situations, from casual coffee dates to high-end cocktail lounges. Following these tips will make you feel attractive and confident, irrespective of your meeting place.
Casual First Dates
Keep it simple but polished.
For more casual first dates like meeting up for coffee, your priority should be looking put together while remaining comfortable and relaxed. Sticking with essential pieces that fit you well is the way to go. A pair of nice dark wash jeans or tan, navy, or gray chinos are perfect options that match anything. Ensure they aren't too tight or baggy - you want them to skim your body without clinging.
For tops, a clean, solid-colored t-shirt in a neutral tone works excellent for warmer weather, allowing you to focus more on conversation than your clothes. If it's chillier, upgrade to a casual button-down, flannel, or sweater.
An Oxford shirt in blue or white looks sharp buttoned up, but you can leave the top button or two undone to keep it casual. A patterned sweater layered over a collared shirt also says you tried while keeping things low-key.
Choose versatile shoes
Your choice of footwear is another crucial element. White leather sneakers are a comfortable, classic choice that effortlessly matches most casual date outfits. To refine your look, stick to low-top, minimalist styles rather than bulky skater shoes.
Other great options are loafers, chukka boots, or casual lace-up derby shoes. Loafers in brown leather add a preppy flair; just avoid overly shiny patent leather. Chukka boots offer the ruggedness of boots with a sleeker silhouette. Derby shoes perfectly straddle the line between formal and casual. Opt for versatile neutral colors like brown, tan, or gray suede.
Accessorize
Small accessories are a great way to pull together a casual date outfit and show you paid attention to the details.
A watch is a classic accessory that adds polish and shows you respect your date's time. For a casual vibe, aim for leather straps rather than metal. Minimalist faces focus on neatly coordinating with your outfit rather than making a bold statement.
Belts are often overlooked but essential for finishing off your look. Opt for leather in brown or black to match your shoes. The width should complement the belt loops of your pants without being too skinny or cartoonishly wide.
Jewelry like a simple pendant necklace, leather bracelet, or beaded bracelet provides subtle flair. Keep jewelry minimal, though - loud chains or heavy rings come off as trying too hard. The focus should be on you, not your accessories.
Other details like rolled-up sleeves, a few open buttons at the collar, or pushing up your sweater sleeves can also lend a relaxed vibe. Just don't get too disheveled or sloppy.
Beyond the First Date
Add a blazer or sports coat.
As you progress into dating at bars, restaurants, or other upscale venues, a blazer or sports coat is an easy way to class up a casual outfit instantly. The blazer adds polish and sophistication, saying, "I made an effort," without going overboard.
An unstructured cotton or linen blazer during warmer months is an excellent choice for laid-back settings like a hip restaurant. Opt for navy or light gray - they'll pair effortlessly with jeans, trousers, or chinos. A wool blazer provides warmth for chillier temps while maintaining your sophisticated edge. Charcoal gray, navy, and camel are versatile neutrals that will match anything.
The sports coat is a similar alternative. To keep it casual, opt for less constructed fabrics like tweed, linen, or textured cotton. Checks, plaids, and textured fabrics add visual interest. Pair it with dark wash jeans, trousers, or chinos and a collared shirt to nail cocktail attire.
Choose versatile trousers
The right trousers can also elevate a look seamlessly. Wool dress trousers paired with a blazer, dress shirt, and leather shoes will look sharp for nighttime dates. Look for a straight, slim, or skinny fit—nothing too baggy. Charcoal and navy are perfect neutral options.
Chinos are a more casual option that still looks polished. They come in various colors like navy, tan, and gray that pair well with blazers. Aim for a slim, tailored fit and colors darker than your jacket. Cotton, linen, or twill fabrics work for warmer weather.
Wool dress pants are ideal for the most formal venues. Look for a straight or slim cut with a structured fabrication—charcoal, and navy suit most blazers and sports coats. Pair them with a dress shirt, tie, dress shoes, and jacket for a sophisticated date night ensemble.
Mind the details
Beyond the core pieces, attending to small details elevates your whole date outfit. Sharp creases in your trousers, freshly shined shoes, and neatly styled hair demonstrate care for your appearance. Don't forget to tend to the "little things" that make a big difference in your overall polish.
Get your trousers professionally hemmed for clean breaks - pooling around the ankles looks sloppy. Creases down the front of trousers should be crisp. Use starch if needed to keep them looking sharp all night.
Clean and polish dress shoes until they have a subtle shine. Pay attention to edges and heels where grime builds up over time. For leather, use polish and conditioner to keep shoes looking pristine.
Iron or steam shirts and jackets to avoid wrinkles, which come off as disheveled. Use spray starch on collars and cuffs to keep them crisp. Hang up jackets immediately after ironing so they don't get rumpled.
Trim and groom facial hair so it looks neat. Get a haircut a few days before to eliminate shagginess. Use the product to style your hair so it appears polished but natural.
Conclusion
The dress code for a date is a mixture of informality and sophistication, depending on the event. For less showy occasions, prioritize fitting, fabric choice, and finishing your casual layers. If the dates become more official, you need to add some tailored items like blazers and pants matched with formal shoes and shirts.
If you want to look sophisticated, pay attention to details such as appropriate size, grooming, or tailoring. Incorporate some of your signature styles into the night-out dress codes, but be careful not to overdo it, especially with respect to patterns or textures. Abide by these steps, and you will always have no trouble selecting an outfit for any dating scene.
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