First experiences start with first impressions – especially first dates. They are exciting and hold the promise of something new. Like any other new experience, it can be overwhelming when you are standing in front of your closet trying to pick the perfect look to wear.
When you have spent time focused on your role at work, or at home with your children, your wardrobe and styling will naturally reflect these parts of your life. We all go through these phases, and it can feel challenging to redirect your focus. Whether you are putting together outfits for work, home, or dating, you always want to think about who you are spending time with and what message you want to send. And equally important, especially with dating, you want to think about what message those people want to hear.
That is where stylists like me come in. We help people select looks that flatter their shape, reflect who they are, and are current. We also guide their choices to make sure that people are sending the message that they intend and that their audience wants to hear. When all of these elements are aligned, magical things happen, and people achieve their goals and dreams. Whether its about finding companionship or the next love of your life, if you follow these suggestions for selecting your first date looks based on the what your date wants to know – I promise you will start off in the right direction.
Ladies, I promise your date will want to know from the moment they see you that you are open, available, and excited to meet them! Dresses are always a win – choose options that show off your shape for example a great v-neck, wrap, or fit and flare silhouette. If you are going to opt for denim and a blouse, go for fitted dressier denim in a dark blue, black, or waxed finish and a blouse with a flattering neckline in a silk or chiffon. Leave your little black dress or blouse at home and instead choose colors or prints you gravitate towards. Soft pinks, lavenders, blues, and florals are always a quiet feminine win. Bright colors like electric cobalt, red, and coral, or bolder abstract prints show you are excited about the person you are meeting and the date to come. Finish your look – incorporate your favorite pieces of jewelry that tell a story about you and select pointy toe options or sandals for flirty footwear. Most importantly, leave your work tote at home in favor of a clutch or small crossbody.
Men, you are not off the hook! Your dates want to know that you take care of yourself and there is no easier way to show them than through a modern first date look. What do I mean? Make sure you have pieces that are up to date with the current trends. The sports jackets of the moment are cut shorter, and you must make sure they fit properly through the shoulders. Sweaters should be layered with coordinating button downs or tees underneath. Button downs and t-shirts should be fitted – too much fabric in the arms or body adds weight – and they should always be tucked in to a belt that matches both your shoes and watchband, wearing them un-tucked looks unfinished. Most importantly, pants should be fitted and either dark wash denim, corduroy, or khakis. No faded, baggy, or cargo styles allowed! Finish with round toed loafers, boots, or wallaby’s, and avoid any dated square toe or orthopedic soled options. In terms of color palettes, you can never go wrong with blues, browns, or greys in mix of saturated and softer shades.
The good news is like anything else dating gets easier the more that you do it. Feeling confident that your look is sending the right message will help you feel more at ease from the moment you step through that door to meet that new special someone.
Rachel Levin
President Rachel Levin Style LLC.
appointments@rachellevinstyle.com
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