You finally put yourself out there and secured a first date with that cute girl from your cousin’s wedding? Congratulations! I don’t want to be the bearer of bad news though, but that was the easy part. They say that you only have one chance to make a first impression, and they aren’t wrong. It’s true for making friends, it’s true for job interviews, and it’s true for first dates. Dressing for the first date is more important than many guys realize. The ultimate goal is to impress her and make it look like you know how to take care of yourself and, believe it or not, the outfit you pick can tell her all that in the first couple seconds of the date. As you get dressed and ready tonight, remember that you can’t just look presentable. First dates are about getting to know each other, and your appearance can do that just as well as your conversation. So, for those of you that may need a few pointers, here are some tips for first date wardrobe choices.
 

Keep It Classy But Not Over The Top

You can’t go wrong with a button-down shirt, but don’t overdo it. When in doubt, “sleek and simple” always looks good. Leave the patterns behind tonight. A solid colored shirt will always demonstrate more class than your plaid golf polo. A button-down shirt with some color is a versatile look, allowing you to easily shift from formal to casual by simply cuffing the sleeves and unbuttoning the top button or two. And on that note, ditch the tie and khakis unless you’re taking her to the office to review spreadsheets. I’m sure there’s been worse first dates.
 

Don’t Slack On Your Shoes

Footwear is important. A woman may not obsess over your shoes, but you better believe she will notice them. Don’t ruin a perfect outfit with old sneakers. Your kicks are part of the ensemble (How to pick the right shoes), so give them some thought. In this department, you really only have two choices. The safer option is to wear neutral and casual shoes such as no-lace or half-lace canvas shoes, boat shoes, or even casual dress shoes. Or, you can follow one current fashion trend and have a solid-colored outfit with ostentatious, clashing sneakers, but this route is definitely more of a “high risk, high reward” situation.
Small details are important. It’s tough to pull off, but the simple/casual look while still having some accessories has a powerful effect if done correctly. A good dress watch is a must-have for every man, but leave the diamond-encrusted Rolex at home. This is a date, not a prize fight in Vegas. Classy-but-simple watches and belts are always a safe investment, and any extras should be kept to a minimum. Switch out the worn-out wallet for a nicer one, pluck any hairs on your face that are out of place, and trim your nails. Even consider how your outfit hangs on you; your clothes should fit your body and accent your best features.

Pick The Right Getup For Your Body

Wear clothes that fit to your body and accent your best features. This is especially important if this girl and you haven’t seen much of each other before tonight. Pick your best feature, whether it’s your arms or your eyes, and draw attention to it. If you work out, wear a shirt that fits to your shoulders and arms snug (but not tight). If you have bright blue or green eyes, where shirts or accents that force your date to notice them. You want to present the best parts of your body just as much as your conversation presents the best parts of your personality. The ultimate goal is to see each other naked right? Hopefully more than once? You can be damn sure that she will be doing the same.

Hair products and colognes can be your best friend or worst enemy. Everyone wants to smell nice, but don’t suffocate the poor woman. If you wear cologne, only put on enough that she will smell it if she is close enough to kiss you. If she can guess the brand from across the street…too much, dude. Don’t be afraid to add a little product into your hair either since current male fashion trends can make un-styled hair seem careless. You don’t have to go overboard with it. Even a bit of a cheaper generic hair paste and a slight wave of the hair to the side can take your outfit from a B- to an A.

At the very least, avoid the worst sins of first date style, or you’ll end the night laying alone in bed getting better acquainted with Incognito browsing. No graphic tees. No flip flops. Keep brown and black separate. And really, ease up on the cologne.