Of course everyone has their own style and every age, body/skin type and personality call for varying aspects of uniqueness about your attire, but all that aside, there are some staple pieces/go-to tips for date-dressing that everyone can at least take a little inspiration from...
Women dressing for a date
Ladies first. If we break it down into potential dating scenarios, your clothes-selection issues might become a little simpler.
Drinks date
A tricky one... There’s always the potential to duck out early to go to a “dinner” you somehow “forgot to mention,” should things take a turn for the dodgy, or the possibility of drinks leading to dinner. So you want to be wearing something versatile that is polished but not stuffy; something simple that gives you the option of a swift getaway. Dark coloured, tailored trousers with heeled ankle boots and a striped or white shirt, nice off-white/greyish t-shirt or colourful silky blouse. If you're feeling like making more of a statement give your shirt and trousers clashing patterns with colours that compliment each other, or just a brighter bag and some interesting jewellery to spark up your outfit. Add a short jacket or a polo neck jumper to that and you have a classy look that isn't too working-woman but definitely gives a good impression.
During-the-day date
You probably want to go for an effortlessly-thrown-together, I woke up like this vibe (the hardest to achieve, obviously). You could go for your nicest jeans, a smart/funky t-shirt, flat ankle boots or trainers (although not the muddy ones you wear for stomping around the park) and a short jacket or longer mac style coat. You could use the heeled ankle boots again, and pair them with tights and a silky, flowing, long-sleeved dress with a simple pattern and long coat. Obviously it depends what you're date entails - if it's something busy and active, go with the former option, but if it's a lunch or something like that, the dress might be better.
Men dressing for a date
If you're worried about how much of a dilemma date-dressing can be as a man, there's really no need to fret - most men will be as intrigued as you are to know what your date expects you to show up in. So here's what we recommend...
Drinks date
Dark jeans/trousers (as long as they're not suit trousers!) and a shirt FOR SURE. This is very much a safe bet whoever you are, on the whole. Likewise for dinner - it's an easy go-to failsafe. Jacket at your discretion.
During-the-day date
Just like with the ladies, it does depend on what you'll be doing. If you're going to be schlepping around a lot, you'll probably want boots or trainers of some kind to keep you comfy, and as with the drinks date, jeans are usually a failsafe option. If you're not a jeans fan (???!!!!) or are a slightly older gentleman, dark coloured cords or chinos can be a good alternative. A t-shirt is best on top for this one, but do choose carefully! Men do seem to accumulate a dodgy selection of t-shirts somehow. If you're not sure what to go for, stick with something simple; a plain black or white if you're feeling neutral, although navy, green and red are also good colours to go for! You could combine it with a knitted jumper, or a jacket depending on what sort of thing you prefer.
Some men LOVE shopping, but if you're a bigger fan of the speedy sweep of the stores, a department store might be your best bet. All the major ones have huge mens collections, where you'll be able to find the things you're looking for.
So hopefully this will allay your fears or at least assist you as you scratch your head in front of your open wardrobe before the date. And if you don't have one yet...? You know where to go
--> www.helloyoudating.com
