First Date Style Guide
Have you ever heard the phrase, “It only takes 7 seconds to make a first impression”? In the dating realm, it takes even less. The truth is, your date is taking a mental note of you and your appearance even before you say hello, shake hands, hug, and settle into your date. So what does this mean for you? You need to dress to impress. Creating an outfit takes time, effort, and strategy. We’re here to help.
Your first date outfit is a factor that can make-or-break your date. The outfit you choose for your first date will set the tone for how your date perceives you. You want to start on the right foot and make the best first impression possible.
What not to wear
There are a few general rules to first date outfits, but for the most part, it comes down to you and your personal style. You don’t want to be uncomfortable on a first date, as people can sense that. However, there are a few DON’Ts when it comes to what to wear.
Don't Wear Baggy Clothes
Baggy clothes are a huge turn-off when it comes to impressing a first date. If your clothes are too big for your body, it’s noticeable. Everyone looks better in clothes that are the right size and a slimmer fit that isn’t too tight and still allows you to be comfortable is the best option for most men.
Don't Overdo a Fashion Trend
Fashion trends are cool for a moment, but once they’re out of style, they make you look tacky. Even if what you’re wearing is in style, you don’t want to overdo it. Examples of fashion trends are skinny jeans, oversized shirts, large belt buckles, excessive accessories, etc. Keep your outfit simple to make a statement.
Don't Look Sloppy
This rule is a catch-all for your overall appearance. Your hair, your teeth, your accessories, and most definitely your clothes. If you look in the mirror before you go out and your outfit looks like you threw it on at the last minute, your date will notice.
General Rules
Dial in the fit
As we alluded to above, the fit of your clothing matters. A lot. For in-depth guidance, check out our clothing fit guides.
Wear Neutral Colors
On a first date, the colors of your clothing should be a mix of whites, greys, blues, blacks, and sometimes dark greens. Once you get more confidence and a better sense of your personal style, you can add in a few pops of color by adding a bright-colored accessory.
When in Doubt, Dress it up a Notch
While the right formality of dress depends on your date’s setting, as a general rule, you want to take the outfit you’d normally wear and dress it up one notch. For example, if you would normally wear a t-shirt and jeans in the setting you’re in, you can dress it up a bit by switching out the t-shirt with a button-down and the jeans with chinos.
The Ash & Erie Difference
Building From Scratch
We’ve poured a tremendous amount of work into developing our henleys, and we hope you can feel the difference when you put it on. Our fabric is sourced from the best mills in the country so that you can have the quality you deserve.