You finally mustered up the courage to ask that special someone out on a date. Of course, you’re excited, but you can’t help but be on edge. You want to make a good first impression, and that means knowing where to go, what to say, and most importantly, what to wear. While coming up with something to wear isn’t usually an issue for someone as dapper as yourself, you don’t want to blow it. Fortunately, there are some style tips to help you select the right first date attire. 

Think back to times when you’ve seen your date in public. How were they dressed? Are they more casual and laid-back? Were they into labels and upscale trends? While you don’t have to compromise your style, you don’t want to outdress your date. So, try to select an outfit from a category that suits your date’s style. 

When deciding what to wear on a first date, keep the location and activities in mind. If you’re going to take a stroll on the boardwalk and grab something to eat at a neighborhood restaurant, then chances are you don’t need a three-piece suit, tie, and hard-bottom shoes. You could go with something low-key yet stylish like a pair of linen pants, a short-sleeve button-up, some loafers, and a hat. 

Imagine throwing on a pair of slacks, a designer sweater, and some suede shoes on your first date only for it to start raining. Trying to get from the car to the date without messing up your shoes will take a miracle. And, if its cold and you need to wear a beanie for half the time, will your hair hold up? Will you take your lid off and shake out some dandruff embarrassingly?  None of these worst-nightmare scenarios are going to take place if you think ahead, so, when selecting your attire, be sure that you’ve checked and double-checked the weather and the activity. 

Unless you’re interested in finding someone that’s attracted to you for the money (or the money it appears you have), you don’t want to go overboard with accessories. Flashy diamond watches, oversized earrings, and huge designer sunglasses are not only over the top; it gives the impression that you’re loaded. Keep it simple and classy with solid gold, white gold, or silver watch, a statement ring, and a small chain-link necklace. If you want to have a game-changing accessory that would go well with your stylish outfit, you should check out the best place to buy argyle pink diamonds.

When trying to decide what to wear, look in the mirror and identify your best features. If you work out regularly, don’t be afraid to show it off with a nice fitted shirt and jeans. Maybe you’ve always been complimented on your hazel eyes? Opting for outfits with hues of green, gold, or brown would make them stand out even more. 

Sometimes, the best way to decide what to wear on a first date is to try a few outfits on. Head to your closet and pull out 3-5 outfits that best align with the style tips listed above. Lay them out on the bed with everything from the shirt and pants to the belt and accessories. Turn on your smartphone music app or portable record player to your favorite song, put on each outfit, and stare at yourself in the mirror. Which outfit makes you feel the best? If necessary, take a few pictures and ask a friend or relative for their opinion. 

Your clothes say a lot about you as a person. So, don’t be afraid to add some personality to your first date attire. Some patterned socks, a fly hat, the right pair of sunglasses, a bold-patterned blazer, or whatever else you want to add gives more character to your attire. 

Whether you’ve known the person for years, ran into them a few times at the grocery store, or it’s a blind date, first dates are nerve-wracking. Ease some of the tension by dressing to impress. The above fashion guidelines will help you select the perfect attire to stay true to your dapper self, impress your date, and turn a few heads in the process.