Even the most confident woman can be thrown off by a first date. Meeting someone for the first time can bring out the deepest of insecurities, because you want to show off your best assets without being inappropriate or ostentatious. Trust me, I know it is easy to succumb to some major fashion don'ts when prepping for a first date, which is exactly why I am listing them here along with alternatives so that you always look perfectly polished on your first date.
OVERLY SEXY OUTFITS
I find that on first dates there is a temptation to "knock" him out with your gorgeousness. Many women take this to mean you have to show some skin, but looking like a total knockout is definitely possible without showing off everything you've got. Dressing to show off your curves is allowed (and encouraged), as long as your dress or skirt is a decent length and your heels aren't the tallest in your closet. My tip: Leave the crop top at home. You'll just distract him from the parts of you that really matter. Jessie's look is subtly sensual. I love it!
PHOTO CREDIT: SEAMS FOR A DESIRE
@JESSIEKASSE
1. THEORY Silk Crepe de Chine Shirt 2. JUNIOR BP Cat Eye Sunglasses 3. SKAGEN Mesh Strap Watch 4. DANIELLE NICOLE Cuff 5. MEL BOTERI Black Saffiano Leather Watson Mini Cross-Body Clutch 6. BP Rings 7. GIANVITO ROSSI Leather Pumps 8. HARRIET Knitted Mini Skirt
STRAIGHT FROM THE GYM
While some of us tend to look overly sexy on a first date, others tend to be way underdressed. Even if you have a bikini-ready body, do not wear leggings, a hoodie, or your worn-out sneakers on your first date. You'll give the impression that you have no interest in putting forth the effort to look nice. Now, I'm not saying you always have to have full makeup on, but a little lipstick and a skirt never hurt anyone.
And because there will be certain occasions that call for something a bit more casual, try Maria's fun look instead.
PHOTO CREDIT: THE WORDY GIRL
@MARIATETTAMANTI
1. PHILOSOPHY Broderie Anglaise Tank Top 2. TAUDREY Bracelet 3. GIVENCHY Sunglasses 4. TAUDREY Bracelet 5. MEL BOTERI Black Lola Small Shoulder Bag - Python 6. TAUDREY Bracelet 7. TAUDREY Necklace 8. ADIDAS ORIGINALS Metallic Sneakers 9. RAG & BONE Cut-off Denim Shorts
PRINT CLASH MANIA
While us fashionistas love a good print, men don't always understand the latest trends. So a first date might not be the best time to wear your most fashion-forward and modern print combo. No need to turn your date into the catwalk! Instead, try a pretty patterned blouse with a solid skirt or shorts like Jenna's look below.
PHOTO CREDIT: VISIONS OF VOGUE
@JENNACOLGROVE
1. KENDRA SCOTT Earrings 2. ERDEM Silk Crepe de Chine Blouse 3. KENDRA SCOTT Necklace 4. KENDRA SCOTT Cuff Bracelet 5. GUCCI Sunglasses 6. MEL BOTERI Grey Saffiano Leather Watson Mini Cross-Body Clutch 7. STEVE MADDEN Sandals 8. CHLOE Pleated Crepe Shorts
TOO MANY SEQUINS
While sequins were a staple on the red carpet this year, they should stay at home on a first date. You don't want the sequins reflecting in the sunlight to distract him from your gorgeous face do you?!
Instead, opt for a pretty beaded skirt or fun accessories. I need Courtney's skirt in my life asap!!
PHOTO CREDIT: KERRENTLY
@THECOURTNEYKERR
1. GORJANA Long Necklace 2. 7 FOR ALL MANKIND Washed Denim Shirt 3. JUNIOR BP Cat Eye Sunglasses 4. GORJANA Stud Earrings 5. MEL BOTERI Marissa Small Tote Handbag and Shoulder Bag 6. FREIDA ROTHMAN Rings 7. BAUBLEBAR Bracelet 8. GIANVITTO ROSSI Suede Boots 9. GIULIANA ROMANO Appliqué Mini Skirt
As scary as a first date can be, there is nothing more intoxicating or fun as those first few moments together - especially with the right man ;) Hopefully this week will help you ace your next first date style test.
Be sure to join me next week for what to wear from 9-5 when it's 90 degrees outside. And in the meantime, please leave your comments below or email us directly at fashionadvisor@melboteri.com if you have any specific style questions and/or ideas for topics you would like for us to cover.
P.S. Finding yourself in a style rut?! Freshen up your look with our Fashion Archives here >> http://melb.co/MBStyleGuideTheArchives