Most of my clients come to me in the first instance for their work wardrobe. However, when we get to know each other a bit more and I ask a few questions, for those that are single there is another area of the wardrobe that leave them a little stressed - what to wear on a date.
Dating at any age can be nerve-racking, intimidating, and feel scary. For those dating in their late thirties and beyond more so. It can have been quite a while since the last time, if ever.
First impressions really matter. You want to look confident, friendly, and perhaps even flirty. You want to project yourself at your best, and let your personality show and of course one area that you really can do this is through your wardrobe and appearance.
Here are some tips on how to dress for dates.
Dressing for casual dates:
coffee shop dates, a walk in the park, Sunday brunch
You don't want to be overdressed for casual dates, but being underdressed can easily send the wrong message. You could come off looking aloof, bored, or like you don’t care. And you do, so dress the part! Casual does not mean sloppy.
Outfit: Wear well-fitting jeans or a slim leg chino style trouser.
For women, wear a silk top or blouse paired with a cardigan or cropped leather jacket. Opt for a pair of stylish flat shoes. A strappy sandal is great for warmer weather or ankle boots in colder weather. Go light on the makeup for your daytime look. No false eyelashes! You can add some colour in your lipstick.
Dressing for evening dates:
going for drinks, seeing live music, a comedy show
Evening dates mean you get to look more flirty and a bit sexier. Here’s an opportunity to add sequins (in moderation) strappy tops or bolder jewellery. Don’t shy away from expressing your personal style, but remember - less is more.
Outfit: Show off an asset, just not all of your assets all at once! Maybe try a lower-cut top with trousers or dark wax finish jeans. Or try wearing a shorter skirt with a modest top or loose-fitting jumper. Wear heels if you aren't going to be standing a lot. Dresses are also a great option. Cotton or jersey knit dresses that follow your curves without clinging are easy and comfortable to wear. Stay away from formal wear.
You can go a little heavier on the makeup with a smokey eye, and/or a bolder lipstick colour and more mascara. Don’t wear so much that you are hiding behind a mask. If you are not sure about applying makeup, either watch some videos on Youtube or invest in some lessons.
Dressing for more formal dates
dinner out at a nice restaurant, art show openings, fundraisers, a guest at a wedding or a graduation
Make an effort and have fun with this one. You can be creative, artistic and modern. You can also be sophisticated and classy. Try not to be too conservative though; it could make you look stuffy!
Outfit: Wear something that you feel radiant in. Maybe it’s an amazing colour, so something fitted that shows off your shape. Maybe it’s an outfit that has sheer qualities to it, either in cut outs, lace, or see-through fabrics. Make sure that you wear the appropriate undergarments! You could also go for a masculine look with tuxedo trousers and ivory satin blouse. Wear heels (your choice of colour), patterned flats, or dressy heeled sandals. If it's a special event you are attending, consider getting your hair and makeup done professionally earlier in the day.
Keep attention near your face. Accessorise with a statement necklace or with dazzling earrings. Add a cocktail ring or two and be sure to carry an evening bag - not a big hobo bag.
Need Assistance?
If dressing for dates makes your head spin, let me help. I can get you dressed for any type of date so that you can feel confident and look great. You can contact me here to arrange to have a chat.
Lizzie Edwards is a personal stylist and image consultant, for men and women, based in London, UK
