But! But you completely spiral, let’s deal with one thing you undoubtedly can management: your outfit. Once you determine what to put on on a primary date, you could discover the remaining falls into place. Because the proper look isn’t nearly wanting good—it’s about feeling like the best possible model of your self.
Below, some favourite ideas and outfit inspiration for what to put on on a primary date this spring and summer season 2025.
1: Dress for the Actual Date, Not Just the ‘Fit Check
We get it—there’ll at all times be a temptation to decorate such as you’re strolling a runway for any event the place you wish to make a superb first impression. But nothing kills a vibe quicker than being overdressed at a dive bar—or underdressed at a swanky rooftop for that matter. So take into consideration the setting and gown accordingly. A espresso date? Keep it informal with a cute prime and a well-fitted pair of denims. A elaborate dinner? A smooth midi skirt and shirt or somewhat black gown with excessive heels does the trick. A museum date? Go for a outsized blazer over a button-down shirt or a wide-leg jumpsuit that strikes the right stability. Consider it type recreation idea: Match the second with out shedding your self within the course of.
Tchesmeni Leonard, the senior style editor right here at Glamour, agrees: “First dates will be thrilling however nerve-wracking, so I at all times purpose to put on outfits that make me really feel assured whereas preserving consolation in thoughts.” Her go-to? A well-fitted pair of straight-leg denims with a easy tee or tank and her favourite heels—normally a pump or strappy sandal.
If the date requires one thing somewhat extra elevated, Leonard likes a midi-length slip gown layered beneath a cropped cardigan or leather-based jacket with boots or heels, relying on the season. Her greatest recommendation? “Start with a cloth that feels good in your pores and skin, then decide a match or silhouette that makes you’re feeling like your most assured self.”
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
2: Comfort Is a Non-Negotiable
The cutest outfit on the earth means nothing if you happen to’re fidgeting, pulling, sweating, shivering, or shedding circulation in too-tight denims. If you’re consistently adjusting your prime or limping from painful sneakers, you’re going to be extra centered in your struggling than your date. Whether it’s a cardigan layered over a T-shirt for an off-the-cuff cocktail, or darkish denims with a tucked-in button-down and an ideal pair of earrings for a dinner date, put on one thing you may neglect about.
And no matter you do, keep away from the remorse ‘match—you understand the one. The shirt that begin out high quality however rides up because the night time goes on. The sneakers that really feel high quality at house however pinch half-hour in. The unfamiliar pattern you satisfied your self you would pull off however secretly assume appears to be like ridiculous. First dates include sufficient unknowns—your outfit shouldn’t be one in every of them. If you’ve by no means worn it earlier than, don’t let this be the take a look at run. Stick to a go-to date night time outfit you understand works.
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
3: Favor Personal Style Over Trends
This shouldn’t be the time to debut an experimental new look that you simply don’t really love. The objective isn’t to impress them—it’s to specific you. If you’re a minimalist, lean into clear traces and nice tailoring. If you’re keen on daring selections, go forward and rock that mini gown with assertion jewellery. Let your outfit introduce you earlier than you even say hiya.
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
4: Find a ‘Subtle Power Move’ Piece
Find one factor—only one—that makes you’re feeling unstoppable. It could possibly be a killer leather-based jacket, a powerhouse blazer, a pair of earrings that make you’re feeling like an It-girl, or a superbly broken-in classic tee. Maybe it’s a denim jacket thrown over an extended sleeve maxi gown, or a mini skirt with an attention-grabbing hem. This is your signature. Your “important character vitality” merchandise that offers you a silent confidence increase.
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
5: Keep Your Beauty Look Groomed But Effortless
For your make-up and hair, assume polished, however not robotic. Slightly hair tousle, somewhat glow, and a glance that claims, “I wakened like this” (even if you happen to definitely didn’t).
Matilde Bono/Getty Images
Matilde Bono/Getty Images
6: Do a Vibe Test Before You Go
Before you stroll out the door, ask your self: Does this really feel like me? Would I wish to run into somebody from highschool carrying this? Am I comfy sufficient to truly benefit from the date? If the solutions are all sure, you’re golden. If not, tweak till you’re feeling effortlessly your self. Because on the finish of the day, the most effective outfit is the one that permits you to deal with what really issues: having a good time. Or at the very least, a superb story.
