You never get a second chance to create a first impression, as the saying goes. When it comes to first dates, you want to make the best impression possible.
Though first impressions aren’t solely based on appearance, it does play a significant part in how people see us. Many single people can attest to the fact that picking what to wear on a first date may be just as difficult as the date itself. You may improve your chances of hitting it off and, ideally, landing a second date by knowing what to wear on a first date, especially if your outfit is backed by science.
We’re breaking down what to dress on a first date, as well as what not to wear, using evidence from behavioural scientists and psychology studies on attractiveness. Though the greatest attire for a first date will vary depending on where you’re going and what you’ll be doing, these suggestions should help you look your best.
WEAR SOMETHING THAT GIVES YOU CONFIDENCE.
The perfect first date dress is one that makes you feel like your most confident self. Behavioral science demonstrates that when you look nice, you feel good, despite the cliché. The theory of enclothed cognition describes the relationship between what we wear and how we feel. You might potentially impact both your date’s and your own subconscious by implementing this notion to your date night clothes. Wearing items that are emblematic of success and sex appeal, like a little black dress or a well-tailored suit jacket, might help you feel more secure while flirting.
WEAR RED OR BLACK WHEN IN DOUBT.
According to colour psychologists, red and black are the greatest colours to wear on a first date. Wearing the two romantic hues might make you appear more appealing and desirable to your date, especially if you’re a woman. While there are clear subconscious associations with red roses, lacy lingerie, and romantic holidays like Valentine’s Day, scientists discovered that the link goes deeper.
Men are more attracted to women when they are wearing red. And men are oblivious of the importance of colour in their attraction.” Another surprising finding was that men are willing to spend more money on a date if the woman is dressed in red.
DO NOT WEAR ORANGE OR BROWN.
Understanding what to wear on a first date is vital, but knowing what not to wear on a first date is just as important, if not more so. Color psychologists advise staying away from orange and brown for first date outfits and job interviews. Orange and brown were associated with the least amount of confidence, intelligence, and sensuality, three of the most desired attributes in a first date. Unsurprisingly, the colours black and red were associated with the most positive qualities. It all boils down to colour psychology once more. The colour orange is used to attract people’s attention. Wearing orange on a first date can send subconscious messages that you’re superficial, attention-seeking, and even arrogant because it’s used for danger signs, construction cones, and safety gear.
WEAR SOMETHING PRACTICAL AND COMFORTABLE.
Another important aspect of establishing a strong first impression on a date is body language. Small gestures like leaning forward or maintaining lengthy eye contact show your interest without saying anything. Negative body language, on the other hand, provides nonverbal signals to your date that you aren’t interested. One of the biggest turn-offs on a date, according to body language study, is being physically closed-off. Crossing your arms, hugging an object to your breast or stomach, or having your hands buried in your pockets give the impression that you are closed off and unreachable. Plus, selecting a comfy and practical first date dress helps you to focus totally on the talk. You may focus on building a deeper connection with the person across the table instead of worrying about how your shoes are rubbing or how your shirt is riding up.
INSTEAD OF SHOWING OFF YOUR CHEST, SHOW OFF YOUR NECK.
On a first date, a little cleavage can help you grab your partner’s attention, but too much can hinder your chances of finding love. On a first date, women who wear extremely revealing clothing are generally seen as superficial and promiscuous rather than modest and seductively alluring. Avoid wearing excessively low-cut shirts and outfits that make you look like a one-night stand rather than a wife. Instead of concentrating on your chest, concentrate on your neck and shoulders. When it comes to survival and romantic attractiveness, the neck is one of the most important parts of the body.
Our final piece of first date outfit advice is straightforward. Be genuine. The most crucial thing you can do on a date, as corny as it may sound, is to look and act like yourself. And what you wear can play a significant role in this.
Clothes have little meaning on their own, but when placed in context, they take on a whole new meaning. Your dress should reflect your personal style and provide a glimpse into your personality to your date. Wear anything that makes you feel like yourself, whether it’s your favourite colour, favourite scent, or lucky shoes.
