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.
© 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.
© GC ImagesDo 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.
What to wear on a first date:
Cool-Girl Chic
Keep things slick yet sophisticated with a textural look that oozes nonchalant cool. A pair of jeans goes a long way when it comes to first-date fashion, and we'd pair ours with a buttery leather jacket. Add a touch of ethereal flair and layer yours with as asymmetric mini dress, point-toe pumps and a satin bag.
- JACKET: Apparis Chaz Bomber, £214, FARFETCH
- DRESS: Lace-Trimmed Satin Dress, £15, H&M
- JEANS: Nili Lotan Roe Jeans, £496, NET-A-PORTER
- BAG: Granny Frame Purse, £280, VIVIENNE WESTWOOD
- SHOES: Studded Heart-Embellished Pointed-Toe Mary Janes, £65, CHARLES & KEITH
Pigment Pop
A vibrant pop of crimson is the perfect way to command attention without being too in the nose. Teamed with some embellished jeans and luxe accessories you have yourself an outfit that says 'fun, fashionable and flirtatious.'
- TOP: Bode Claret Blouse, £675, FARFETCH
- JEANS: Siedres Luisa Jeans, £465, SELFRIDGES
- BAG: Arcadie Matelassé Nappa Leather Mini-Bag, £1890, MIU MIU
- NECKLACE: Chopova Lowena Loves You Necklace, £245, SSENSE
Cosy Charm
Retain an air of mystery with a divinely cool, low-key look crafted from must-have, timeless pieces. A cosy knit pairs beautifully with a denim midi skirt and silver Sambas to create a modest, modish look. The final touch? A pop of pastel to show your fun side.
- KNIT: The Julia Knit, £145, CINTA THE LABEL
- SKIRT: Crossover Skirt, £35, ZARA
- BAG: Marge Sherwood Beige Soft Baguette Bag, £275, SSENSE
- SHOES: Adidas Originals Samba OG, £90, & OTHER STORIES
Suede Sophisticated
Sexy suede will forever have a place in our hearts. Channel your inner 70s siren and slip into some suede knee-high boots, paired with a denim mini and a floaty skirt for a Stevie Nicks-inspired look.
- BLOUSE: Acne Studios Ruffled Blouse, £265, NET-A-PORTER
- SKIRT: Mini Skirt, £155, A.P.C
- BAG: BA&SH June Tote, £371, FARFETCH
- BOOTS: Edina Boots, £90, CLARKS
One Piece Perfection
For the breeziest first date look, simply slip into a denim jumpsuit. Fashion debacle sorted. A simple yet structured look, a one-piece can be easily elevated with some studded ballet flats, chunky jewels and a burgundy purse. Our choice? Saint Laurent, darling.
- JUMPSUIT: Paige Jumpsuit, £278, REISS
- BAG: Saint Laurent Gav=by Vanity Bag, £1570, MYTHERESA
- BRACELET: Dôme Figure Cuff, £348, MEJURI
- SHOES: Studded Ballet Flats, £126, BIMBA Y LOLA
Kitschy Cute
Express your personality via a cute, colourful look that serves up oodles of fun. A touch of lemon yellow, crimson and denim texture - especially when married with an embroidered graphic top - makes for the sweetest style statement.
- TOP: Bode Twin Parakeet Top, £210, NET-A-PORTER
- SKIRT: Long Satin Skirt, £209, SANDRO
- NECKLACE: Kenneth Jay Lane Gold-Plated Heart Pendant Toggle Necklace, £95, LIBERTY
- BAG: Arnela Patent Shoulder Bag, £115, GUESS
- SHOES: Maison Kitsuné Blue Denim Ballerina Flats, £225, SSENSE
How we chose:
- Style and date-appropriate: 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.
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.
