How to Dress for a First Date (Women)

Co-authored by Elle Monus and Madeleine Criglow

Last Updated: February 5, 2023 References

One of the biggest sources of first-date anxiety is the outfit. If you've just ripped apart your closet to find that you have absolutely nothing to wear, you're not alone! It's understandable to want to look your best on a first date, and your date is probably fretting over their outfit, too. This article is here to help if you need first-date approved outfit inspiration. We've got everything you need to know, including tips on dressing with confidence and outfit ideas that will catch your date's eye.

1

Wear something that makes you feel confident.

If you feel comfortable, you'll appear more attractive. It's great to put effort into your appearance, but that doesn't mean you have to buy a whole new outfit. You'll look (and feel) your best if you wear some of your favorite staples. That dress that makes you feel like a million bucks? That's the right choice, not a brand new jumpsuit you've never worn in public.^{[1]
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- Remember, you don't have to show too much skin if you don't want to. Wear what makes you feel comfortable.^{[2]
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  Lisa Shield
  Dating Coach
  Expert Interview. 13 December 2018.}
- Wear shoes that you've worn at least a few times. That way, you won't have to worry about breaking in a new pair of shoes while you're walking around with your date.
- If you want to take a fashion risk, try a bold new necklace or pair of earrings. Accessories can be a subtler way to experiment.

2

Be yourself.

You want this person to like you for you (including your normal style). If you're a sporty gal that would rather wear Vans than heels, you don't have to pretend to be something you're not. People are attracted to women who are comfortable with who they really are. Wear an outfit that shows off your personality, and skip the trendy items that don't feel like your style.^{[3]
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- Sites like Instagram and TikTok are great for spotting the latest trends, but they also perpetuate beauty standards that can feel impossible to reach. Remember that the right person will find you beautiful just the way that you are.

3

Try a subtle makeup look.

You'll appear a little more approachable if you don't overdo it. Your date probably wants to get to know the real you, so if you don't normally wear a ton of makeup, there's no reason to on your date.^{[4]
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Expert Source

Lisa Shield
Dating Coach
Expert Interview. 13 December 2018.} Try a bold lip or a smokey eye, not both.
- For a makeup look that accentuates your eyes, try cat-eye eyeliner and some nude lip gloss.
- To show off your lips, choose red lipstick. Add black mascara and some subtle glitter eyeshadow to complete the look.
- Alternatively, if you normally wear a full face of makeup every day, go ahead and rock your normal makeup look.

4

Opt for red or black.

These colors are scientifically proven to catch your date's attention. Studies show that women who wear red are considered more attractive and sexually appealing.^{[5]
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Research source} The color black has a similar effect, as studies show that wearing black can make you look more fashionable.^{[6]
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- A little black dress is a staple for a reason. Try a black mini-dress and some boots. If you'd like a little more coverage, go for a midi-length black dress and a cute pair of sneakers.
- In the wintertime, a red coat will look elegant and sexy. In the summer months, try a red sundress or blouse.

5

Wear a lace camisole and jeans to a casual dinner.

This fashionable getup is perfect for dinner and drinks. Go for a black or white lace top and pair it with your favorite pair of jeans.^{[7]
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Elle Monus
Image Consultant
Expert Interview. 7 September 2021.} To make your outfit a little more formal, add a cute pair of heels or some leather (or faux leather) boots.^{[8]
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Lisa Shield
Dating Coach
Expert Interview. 13 December 2018.}
- If it's wintertime, add a leather jacket or a sleek trench coat.
- Accessorize the look with some elegant jewelry. Try a simple chain necklace or some cute silver studs.

6

Try a floral dress and sneakers if you're headed to the park.

This flowery look is perfect for a sunny day outside. If you're going to be outdoors, you likely want to find an outfit that's comfortable and cute. Opt for a floral dress in a flattering silhouette of your choice and a pair of sneakers so you can walk around freely.^{[9]
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- A floral mini-dress will give your look a fun 1960s vibe, while a midi-length dress will give you a more modern edge.
- Pair the look with a canvas tote or a wicker handbag.

7

Go with a crop top and jeans as another outdoor option.

This breezy look is perfect for walking around the city. If you're going to be out and about on your date, you want something that's appealing but comfy. A crop top will show off your midriff and look great with some light-wash denim.
- If you don't want to reveal too much, go for a pair of high-waisted jeans, or wear a camisole under your crop top for a mid-2000s inspired get-up.
- Make the look a little more fun by wearing cute accessories, like a pair of statement earrings or a few rings.

8

Wear a tank top and denim skirt to a coffee date.

A mid-morning date like this calls for a casual-chic look. A denim skirt and a tank top will help you strike this balance. Try a denim skirt in a cut that feels flattering and comfortable, and add a sweater if it's a little cold out. You'll look feminine and effortless!
- An A-line skirt is breezy and perfect for springtime, while a pencil skirt will appear sophisticated and retro.
- Complete the look with a pair of sneakers or some ballet flats.
- Since this look is pretty simple, give it some pizzazz with a handbag in a bold color or pattern.

9

Choose a blazer, casual tee, and jeans if you're meeting up after work.

This professional-chic look is perfect for post-work drinks. If you're headed straight from the office to your date, you don't have to change your whole outfit. An office staple like a blazer can be refashioned as a smart, polished addition to a first date outfit. Add a tank top or a band t-shirt and jeans to dress down the look a little bit.
- If you wear heels to work, go ahead and keep those for date night. You might also pair this look with a cute pair of flats. For an edgier look, try a pair of motorcycle boots.
- Bring along some earrings or a sleek bracelet to take the look from day to night.

10

Don a slip dress and denim jacket if you're going to happy hour.

This 90s look is a fun, sexy choice. A slip dress and a denim jacket is the perfect combo to show off your sex appeal without giving it all away just yet. Add a pair of sneakers for a breezy look, or try a pair of combat boots to show off your wild side.
- If it's cold out, complete the look with a simple pair of black tights and a scarf.
- Embrace this look's 90s feel by adding a pair of hoop earrings and an animal print bag.

11

Pick a midi-length dress and strappy sandals for a nice dinner out.

A chic, semi-formal dress will be perfect for a nicer restaurant. A midi-length silhouette will appear fashionable and formal without going overboard.^{[10]
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Elle Monus
Image Consultant
Expert Interview. 7 September 2021.} For shoes, some strappy sandals will pair well with this length.^{[11]
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- In the springtime, a floral midi-length dress will be just the right amount of bold.
- To carry your things, opt for an elegant clutch handbag.

12

Try a t-shirt and leather pants if you're going to a show.

This edgy look is perfect for checking out live music or an art show. If you're going out, a pair of leather pants will surely impress your date. Since these are a great statement piece, keep the rest of your look simple. A white T-shirt, for example, will make you look fashionable without having to try too hard.^{[12]
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- Pair leather pants with white sneakers or some heeled booties.
- If it's cold out, a cozy beanie will work well with this rocker-chic look.

Expert Q&A

Question

How can you dress to make a great first impression?

Lisa Shield
Dating Coach
Lisa Shield is a love and relationship expert based in Los Angeles. She has a Master's degree in Spiritual Psychology and is a certified life and relationship coach with over 17 years of experience. Lisa has been featured in The Huffington Post, Buzzfeed, LA Times, and Cosmopolitan.

Lisa Shield

Dating Coach

Expert Answer

A pair of jeans, a white button-down top, and boots look classic and sexy. Do not wear too much jewelry and makeup. Men prefer a more natural look. Avoid wearing too expensive accessories like an expensive handbag or shoes.
Question

What should I keep in mind when I dress for my first date?

Lisa Shield
Dating Coach
Lisa Shield is a love and relationship expert based in Los Angeles. She has a Master's degree in Spiritual Psychology and is a certified life and relationship coach with over 17 years of experience. Lisa has been featured in The Huffington Post, Buzzfeed, LA Times, and Cosmopolitan.

Lisa Shield

Dating Coach

Expert Answer

You should not show off too much skin. Do not wear a short skirt if you wear a low-cut blouse. Either wear a low, more revealing top and a nice pair of jeans or slack, or a short skirt and a top that covers you up.
Question

Is it OK to wear jeans on a first date?

Elle Monus
Image Consultant
Elle Monus is an Image Consultant and the Co-Founder of True Image Group. With over 11 years of fashion industry experience, she specializes in holistic approaches to branding, size-inclusive image consulting, and personal styling. Additionally, Elle has had the opportunity to work on several New York Fashion Week shows and has been featured in multiple media outlets, such as Racked.

Elle Monus

Image Consultant

Expert Answer

Sure it is! For a classic that always works, pair a blouse with a trendy jean and dress them up with a fun heel.