The prospect of a first date can be hugely exciting, but simultaneously full of uncertainty.
Will conversation flow? Will sparks fly? Or will you hastily declare that you think you've left the gas on and rush home after 60 seconds of being in your date's presence?
We can't make any promises, but one way to ease any pre-date anxieties is by getting your outfit in order.
MORE: 20 Valentine's Day nail looks we've fallen head over heels for
© GettyIt's no secret that looking good and feeling good go hand in hand. In order to avoid a sartorial frenzy, we recommend you curate your perfect date look ahead of time.
Dos and Don'ts
Do consider the occasion. Not all dates were created equal – pay attention to what kind of activity is on the cards. Are you meeting for low-key drinks or accompanying your date to an illustrious charity gala? A fatuous reminder perhaps, but no one wants to run the risk of getting caught short.
Don't splash out on something you'll never wear again. The temptation to splurge on something showstopping is totally understandable, after all, you want to impress. But defo don't pick something super outlandish or impractical that will then sit in the back of your wardrobe for the foreseeable. If it is a super lavish affair, consider renting a gown rather than buying outright.
MORE: The best red lipsticks for Valentine's Day: Tried, tested & reviewed
RELATED: Valentine's Day: Can a perfume make you fall in love?
Do prioritise comfort. If you are not naturally a heels girl, don't inflict that on yourself. In the same breath, don't agree to the six-course dinner date and rock up in the super slinky LBD that was already a fraction too tight when you bought it in a sample sale stupor. You've been warned.
Don't dress like someone you're not. If someone you knew were to catch a glimpse of you on your date, would they recognise you? You want to look like the best version of yourself, not a hazy estimation of attractiveness, dictated by outmoded ideals. Don't second guess it, go for the silhouettes that you know suit you to a T.
Do up your underwear game. Naysayers, pipe down. You never know where the night will end, and you may as well plan for the best-case scenario. Pretty, and yet dignified is the vibe you want – check out some of our favourite lingerie brands here if you're in need of inspiration.
How we chose:
- Style and date-appropriate: The outfits selected below have been personally selected by us, the Hello! Fashion team. We've scoured the internet's top fashion sites and chosen pieces centred around the theme of a first date, but that are also reflective of what we love and would genuinely wear.
- Price: Whether you're planning on splashing out or bagging a bargain, we've got a piece in your price range. We've curated our outfits using a mix of high-street brands and luxe designer labels.
The Hello! Fashion team share what to wear on a first date for a guaranteed great impression:
Natalie Salmon, Editor
© Phill Taylor
"First dates can take many forms, there are the ones who ask to go for a walk in the park and the ones who want to go for a night on the town. As wholesome as the first option is... there's nothing more fun than the energetic excitement of getting ready for the latter. I always opt for leather trousers because they can transition to pretty much any venue."
Norma Kamali Spat Vegan Leather Flared Leggings, £190.00, Net-A-Porter; Goldsign The Fonteyn Bodysuit, £320.00 £192.00, Net-A-Porter; Gianvito Rossi Rania 85 Crystal-Embellished Suede-Trimmed Organza Mules, £1,120.00, Net-A-Porter; Millenia Necklace, £330.00, Swarovski; Astrid Faux Fur Coat, £718.00, Wolf & Badger
Chloe Gallacher, Fashion Assistant
© Phill Taylor
"On a first date, I want to be comfy yet chic so I'm more relaxed in myself. I've got a minimalist style, I'm not really a bright colour kind of person, so these Agolde wide-leg jeans tick every box for me. They're simple, yet worn right will elevate any look. Paired with this strapless bustier from Aligne, it gives an expensive feel without breaking the bank which is a winner for me. I love this pleated Nanushka bag, it gives a real timeless feel without being too OTT. I'd pair with simple slingbacks and gold jewellery to top the look off."
Ken Strapless Tailored Bustier, £99.00, Aligne; Agolde Ren Cropped High-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans, £310.00, Net-A-Porter; Pointed Mesh Slingback Kitten Heels, £135.00, Cos; Jen Bag, £269.00, END.; Alta Capture Charm Earrings, £125.00, Monica Vinader
Orin Carlin, SEO Content Writer
© Orin Carlin
"First dates are a tricky beast to nail. Obviously, if you dress to the the nines, you run the risk of looking super keen. But on the other hand, I'd want to look like the best version of myself, and for it to be clear that I'd made an effort. It's about striking a balance, and for me that means smart-casual. A satin midi skirt is always a safe bet - they're endlessly comfortable and the lustre of the fabric exudes a gentle glamour. This khaki version by Zara is sleek and affordable. I'd pair it with this gorgeous linen-silk crop top by Zimmermann - infinitely versatile, and I love the delicate bow detailing. To keep things low-key, I'd team these separates with a pair of Sambas in a tonally complementary colourway, and add an organza scrunchie for a sense of playfulness. To complete the look, I'd wear this pretty, sculptural piece by Alighieri alongside the deep plunge neckline."
Satin Midi Skirt, £29.99, Zara; Zimmermann Matchmaker Cropped Tie-Detailed Linen And Silk-Blend Top, £595.00, Net-A-Porter; Adidas Originals Samba OG Suede-Trimmed Leather Sneakers, £90.00, Net-A-Porter; The Clouds In Your Mind Necklace, £195.00, Alighieri; Ivory Organza Hair Scrunchie, £29.00, Anisa Sojka
Lauren Ramsay, Digital Writer
© Phill Taylor
"When it comes to date nights, I often go casual chic and amp up the glam with heeled boots and some chunky gold accessories. I often use pieces from my capsule wardrobe like a blazer and jeans (a failproof outfit) and build around it from there depending on the mood. I love that this blazer has a belt to cinch in the waist and create a flattering silhouette to offset the shape of the balloon jeans. I'm obsessed with the mob wife trend, and these Mary Janes are striking and will add interest to an outfit. Finish off with a pair of statement earrings to ensure your look is complete from head to toe."
Odd Muse Ultimate Muse Stretch-Crepe Blazer, £145.00, Harvey Nichols; Arch Jeans - Tapered, £69.00, Cos; Block Heel Mary Janes, £130.00, Boden; Noir Earrings, £89.00, Heaven Mayhem
Orion Scott, Fashion Features Writer
© Orion Scott
"For a first date outfit I would keep my outfit both cute and comfortable, pairing together items that I feel comfortable and confident in. I love the idea of layering this Ganni denim dress over a pair of jeans in a similar hue. If it's on the colder side I would layer a frilly collared shirt underneath for an extra layer, and chuck on a pair of ballet flats."
Frill Collared Peplum Blouse, £34.99, Monki; Tint Wash Denim Mini Dress, £225.00, Ganni; Miu Miu Leather Ballet Flats, £740.00, Mytheresa; Baggy Dad Lightweight Jeans, £100.00, Levi's
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
