It is a cliche that you have probably heard a thousand times, but it still stands true: you never have a second chance to make a first impression.
So when it comes to a date where you might be meeting your future Mrs.
for the first time, you definitely want to dress well for it.
Why is date apparel so important? Well, several reasons, really.
First of all, dressing nicely is a sign of respect for the woman whom you are accompanying.
If you are dressed in a sloppy untucked tee shirt and a pair of wrinkled trousers, it will exude the idea that you do not care about how you look, and it is therefore only natural for your date to conclude that you don't care much about your date with her, either.
Secondly, it is likely that your date has spent an ample amount of time getting ready for this date by picking out a nice outfit, styling her hair, applying makeup, etc.
You should spend just as much time grooming and dressing as her.
(Okay, maybe not as much time.
We'll say half as much.
) For an evening out of dinner and drinks, you can't go wrong with a sharp suit.
What woman doesn't like man in a suit? Plus, a suit coat helps you to look polished and masculine.
Pick a suit in a light color, or pair it with a button down shirt in a bright shade to lighten up your look and avoid looking intimidating, or like you are attending a political convention.
A dark suit, such as charcoal or navy, is appropriate for evening events such as the opera, a dance concert or a play.
For a slightly less formal look that is still quite impressive, opt for a nice pair of flat front trousers with a button down shirt and tie.
For a stylish appearance, avoid wearing all neutrals in favor for some color.
For example, try a pair of gray flat front trousers with a light yellow shirt and a blue tie.
Make sure to wear the appropriate necktie accessories to keep your tie in place and prevent you from fidgeting with it in the case that you are nervous.
To descend another step on the formality scale while still looking polished, think in layers as you would with a suit, but replace the pieces with more casual ones.
For example, for a date at a casual restaurant or bar, layer a green and blue horizontally striped polo shirt with a pair of dark wash jeans, and a brown sport coat with a brown leather belt and loafers.
A good general rule of thumb for any date that you go on, even if it is outdoors in the daytime, is that you should cover up the majority of your body.
Even if you have the most shapely and defined biceps in the world, it is best to leave these concealed and not show them off in a tank top.
Leaving things to the imagination is a lot sexier to a woman than when they are in her face.
For an outdoor date, try flat front and nice pair of stylish sneakers with a sport shirt.
If you wear a solid colored shirt, don't be afraid to wear pants with a slight pattern, such as seersuckers or cotton pants with a narrow pinstripe.
Regardless of what type of shirt you wear, make sure that it is well-fitted and not baggy, and tuck it in.
Do not wear sweatpants or athletic pants for any reason, even if you are attending a sporting event.
Only wear sandals if your feet are perfectly groomed, because yes, she totally will notice if you have gnarly toes.
Women look to see that you are clean and well-kempt, because this instinctively tells them that you can care for another individual.
Adding a stylish accessory, such as an interesting watch, ring, or pocket square, can help to convey that you care about your appearance and that you have good attention to detail.
And don't overlook the little things, such as trimming your eyebrows and applying a little splash (not a wave) of cologne.