The all important first date. This is your big chance, guys, –and let me tell you, some of you blow it big! Here’s your men’s clothing guidelines, straight from our fashion mavens. If you follow our rules of style, we’ll almost guarantee that you’ll get a second, and third date. Okay, here’s you go…

Men’s Clothing Rules for the Successful First Date

First of all, if you want to succeed, clear your mind of all the ideas you have previously about how to dress for your first date. Some of you are way off. It’s important to note that women interpret everything. Even if they already know you from the workplace or through mutual friends, they are going to look at what you’re wearing on your date and ask themselves, “Can I deal with this?” You are constantly sending a message, especially with your clothing. Let’s read a few of those messages:

You got as far as the first date for a reason. You must have presented yourself pretty good so far. The first date is not the place to show her just how laid back and cool you are. If you show up, even for a lunch outing, wearing khaki shorts and a t-shirt, she’s not going to say, “Wow, look how free he is.” Instead, the message will be, “Look how unimportant I am to him. Did he even look in the mirror?” Is that what you want to tell her? Of course not. She’s been primping for hours, regardless of the type of date or time of day. Don’t be afraid to show her that you’ve made an effort. It’s actually very refreshing to women.

An Afternoon Date

If you’ll be taking your date out for brunch or for an early afternoon outing, casual, classy is perfect. A pair of chinos with a casual button collar shirt, either solid or striped, is perfect, and will look great with a tweed sport jacket. A tie is not necessary for this type of date, unless there is a particular event the two of you are attending, in which case, dress according to the occasion.

Go for warm tones and earthy colors (nothing too shocking), to make her feel comfortable. Steer clear of solid combinations such as all black or all navy. Read on to dress for an evening out on the town.

An Evening Date

An evening date is really your chance to shine, so don’t blow it by under dressing. Women love men who have style and who don’t need style guidance. An evening date is the perfect occasion for your trousers, formal shirts, a men’s blazer (our Otley Blazer makes a wonderful choice), and a classic silk tie. The tie is really optional, as it’s just as fashionable to wear your formal shirt with the first button unbuttoned, without a tie. If your date will be wearing an evening dress, it’s also completely appropriate to wear a suit, with or without a tie. Black on black (black suit with black formal shirt) always looks amazing.

Regardless which way you choose to go, remember, men’s clothing choices are just as important as women’s, and what you choose is going to send her a message. If you want to ensure date number two, dress for the occasion. You won’t be sorry.

About Susan Grant

Susan has more than 7 years of experience as a Fashion Advisor for several reputed fashion houses and manufacturers including Brook Taverner. Her ultimate dream is to design and sell her own clothing line worldwide!

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