First dates can be daunting if you’re meeting up with someone for the first time. You want to set the right impression. An impression that lasts. When it comes to looking good you want to find a balance between dressing up too much and underdressing. You want to leave your date thinking they don’t need to change anything about you. So for all of you guys out there, here are a few style tips and outfit ideas on what to wear on a first date.
Shirt
When it comes to shirts you want to wear something simple. A plain shirt with strong neutral colors is a great option. Try to avoid a graphic t-shirt with prints unless you plan on going to a concert. A buttoned-up shirt
is your go-to when it comes to dates. Most women prefer men showing up in a buttoned-up shirt rather than a plain t-shirt.
If you’re meeting on a dinner date in a more fancy location you should wear a proper shirt. A well-fitted shirt can look great and make a good first impression. Turtle necks are also great if you want to look chic and classy. Avoid wearing a tie with your suit. You’re going on a date, not a meeting. If you’ve planned a day out on the beach then you might want to wear shirts with floral prints
. Linen shirts
are also great for casual summer dates.
Jackets
Depending on the weather you should also wear a jacket. Layering your outfit can instantly make you look better. It shows you have a sense of style. The general rule of layering is to wear shorter / thinner clothing on the inside and longer / thicker clothing on the outside or vice-versa. A plain bomber jacket
or a denim jacket
can be the perfect look for a casual date.
If you’re going for a more edgy look then you can also wear a leather jacket. If you want to dress up a bit for that dinner date then you might want to get yourself a nice blazer. A well-fitted blazer 
over a proper shirt can make you look perfect. Depending on the weather you can also wear flannels or overshirts to layer your clothes. A knitted sweater is also a great option for winter.
Pants
When it comes to pants you want to keep it as simple as possible. Dark Denim
is the safest bet when it comes to jeans. Chinos 
are also a great option and alternative for denim jeans. Try to avoid sportswear or ripped jeans or anything over the top. For a more formal occasion, you want to wear a nice pair of tailored pants.
Shoes
One of the first things women notice on a man is their shoes. So it’s important for you to put on a nice pair of kicks. If you’re going for a casual look then you might want to wear plain white sneakers
. Try to avoid running shoes unless it’s really appropriate. If you plan on looking a bit more dressed up then invest in some Chelsea or chukka boots
. They are a bit more formal than your casual kicks. For a more formal date, you want to wear a nice pair of oxfords.
Accessories
Accessories are the little things that women notice on a man. You want to wear a nice watch or some accessories on your hands if possible. It doesn’t have to be expensive. If you’re going out on a sunny day you should always have sunglasses. You also might want to invest in a high-quality leather wallet. It might be something that women notice even if it’s for a brief period of time. Hats are also great accessories to show off your style.
Try to avoid baseball caps or beanies as they are too casual. Fedoras or straw hats are the perfect options for summer. Scarves are also great accessories to have.
Here are a few things to consider before you figure out what you want to wear.
Dress according to the location
When it comes to the first date you want to dress according to the setting you’re gonna be meeting in. If you’ve planned a nice day out like a walk in a park then there’s no point dressing up in a suit. Similarly, if it’s a nice dinner you have planned out then you might want to hold off on the jeans and t-shirt.
Look like you’ve made an effort, but not too much effort
A man should look as if he had bought his clothes with intelligence, put them on with care, and then forgotten all about them. You want to make your date know you dressed up and looked good for them.
Keep your denim dark, slim and plain
If you’re wearing denim jeans you want to keep it simple and plain. Avoid anything with prints or cuts. Dark wash jeans always.
Always go for neutral colors
Colors like grey, black, white and navy blue are the best to choose from. They keep the focus on you and your conversation rather than your outfit.
Smell Good
If you want to make your date remember you then you should definitely put on some cologne but not too much of it. When it comes to the amount of scent you should use then you should put on just the right amount that she can smell when she’s close to you. Not so much that your cologne fills the room.
Tidy yourself up
If you’re meeting someone for the first time then you also want to show you have clean hygiene. Oral hygiene is also key. Brush your teeth and don’t forget to floss. Get some fresh mints if you have bad breath. Cut your nails and make sure they’re clean. Hair too long? Get a fresh new haircut or your beard trimmed even if it’s just for the date. Pay attention to your skin too. try to moisturize your hands and face put some lip balm for those chappy lips. Those are the parts that your date will be looking at the whole time.
So there you go, guys. I hope these tips on what to wear on a first date are helpful for you. Leave any comments if you have any questions.