Let’s face it—dating is hard. People can meet in the most unique ways these days. One thing that will always stay consistent is the feeling of a first date. So much thought, time and energy goes into a first date. The most important thing to remember is to keep an open mind. Chances are the first date won’t be picture perfect, but it can be close to it if you don’t sweat the small stuff. Someone could run late, or the other spills their drink—it happens. So today we’re here to talk about some of the things you can control when preparing for a first date.
who is supposed to make the plans? It’s 2018, there isn’t a correct answer for that. We believe that anyone can take the reins to determine the plans. We have found that the person who initiates the date is typically the plan-maker. You and your date will most likely be communicating before the big day. Find out what your date’s interests are. During those conversations, you will be able to gauge their likes and dislikes, as well as what works with their schedule. The first date doesn’t have to be over the top. You’ll want to make sure you pick a location that makes you both feel comfortable and will allow you to act natural. Remember, you’re trying to get to know someone. Avoid places like the movies or a museum—you want to be able to have a solid conversation above a whisper level. We recommend trying out a coffee shop or a favorite local restaurant for the first date. Both locations offer great first date vibes.
what’s the perfect first date outfit? Picking out an outfit for the first date can be very stressful. Raise your hand if you’ve ever sent a picture or snapchat of your outfit to your friends for approval—yep, we’ve all been there. But there is no need to stress! Once you figure out the location, you’ve done the hard part, and picking out an outfit is easy.
The most important thing to remember is to wear something comfortable. If your clothes are comfortable, you’ll act comfortable too. If the date takes place during the day, such as a coffee date, wear something casual. For women, we recommend skinny jeans with a chunky sweater and over-the-knee boots type of outfit. For the men, try wearing a nice slim fit jean with a classic button down shirt for a casual look. Both men and women should try to avoid fabrics that don’t breathe well or wrinkle easily. Chances are you’ll be nervous, so avoid fabrics that might make you sweat. If the date takes place at night, you’ll want to dress up your look. A leather jacket or blazer can help with this. Do you remember our Valentine’s Day looks we shared a few years ago? A leather jacket paired with either a nice shift dress or jeans will look great on any woman. A blazer can help spruce up a man’s outfit as well. Throw a blazer over a cashmere sweater, paired with dark-colored chinos and you’re ready for the evening.
is there such thing as first-date etiquette? Dating etiquette is by far the most important piece for a great first date. Living in the digital age, it can be hard to disconnect, even for a few hours. We recommend keeping your phone in your jacket pocket or purse to ward off the temptation. First impressions go a long way, so make sure you’re engaged in the conversation, instead of scrolling through your Instagram feed. If you’re chatting over dinner, always remember to use your manners. You’d be surprised how many adults converse while there is food in their mouth.
A controversial topic we often hear about is—who pays for the bill? When the check comes at the end of the date, don’t panic. To avoid any discomfort, we encourage whoever initially did the “asking out” to pay the bill. However, it will go a long way if the other person offers to split the bill or pays for the next date. Mentioning to pay for the next date will solidify and signal to the other person that the first date went well.
the date is over … now what? Not every first date is going to have fireworks or lead to a second, and that’s okay! If the date was terrible, it’s important to be honest with the other person. Don’t agree to a second date if you don’t mean it. After all, they’re trying to find a connection with someone too. If the first date was a hit, then don’t be shy and plan a second! This time the other person should offer to make a plan. After all the great conversation from your first date, you’ll be able to plan the second date without any problems.
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