It’s been a crazy year for all of us. And the dating scene took a hit with quarantines and social distancing. Many places aren’t open to meet, which can make a typical first date a little harder to book. If you must do an outdoor date, what you wear may be different from what you would have worn at a bar or restaurant.
So what does someone wear on dates these days? Is it more casual – or maybe it’s more dressy?
When I first started dating after my divorce, I was confused with the new “style” of dating. I’d been with my ex-husband since I was in college, so I wasn’t sure how to go about meeting people. And the online dating sites were CRAZY! When I finally set up a few dates, I came up with some questions to prepare for meeting this person.
Join our Community of Peaceful Living Wellness Warriors
and receive a special free gift:
Our Top 5 Tips for Peaceful Living
Here are my “W”s for dating style:
What do you want out of this date?
Let’s face it, after leaving a relationship, you may just want something really casual. If you’re looking for something less serious and want to get a quick reaction from the other person, you want to feel really sexy and ready to take on… whatever happens that night. If you see this person as someone you would spend more time with, then a more subtle way of attracting their attention may be the better route.
Who is the person and what kind of style do they have?
If you aren’t meeting this person randomly in your life, you are finding dates online. And, again, these sites can get… interesting. Some people post various photos of the different parts of their lives – like one on a boat, and one from a work party, and one at a hockey game. Others choose to show less – photos and less clothing. Again, if you like seeing less of their style and more of what they got under it, that’s your thing – go to it. When setting up a date, think about what you already know about this person and pick an outfit that you will be comfortable in and that will make them comfortable, as well.
Related Post: STYLE AS SELF-CARE: ARE YOU DENYING YOURSELF?
Where are you going?
I like to meet for the first time in more casual environments, so I tend to start my first physical interactions at a sports bar or a pub. A great pair of jeans with a fun top, simple jewelry and heels or boots are my go-to for first dates. But sometimes the dates end up at a more formal location like a restaurant or a show in town. A dress might be the better choice for that destination. Figure out how formal or casual your location will be and make informed decisions.
When is the date (time of day)?
Dating during the daytime can be pretty common these days because it happens to be the only time you both could get together. You can have a lot of fun dressing for an afternoon date, but still keep it a brunch time style. A skirt and simple top with flats is a great afternoon look.
Dating is an adventure – enjoy it! If you take it too seriously, you could find yourself disappointed. Following the “W”s will help you through the butterflies of meeting someone new while feeling confident and good about yourself.
Jennifer Ginty is a certified image consultant and personal stylist with years of experience helping women and men define their own style with wardrobe organization and personal shopping. Jen has consulted with everything from casual wear such as jeans and tops to styling for the corporate world.
“I love what I do. Some may see my career as a luxury for other people, or maybe as “extra.” But it’s so much more than what you see on the outside. For my clients and for me.”
Style is a form of self care – a way to express yourself without even speaking. Through self-introspection and just having fun, you can bring out your true self effortlessly.
It’s about dressing for the way you live and feeling great about it.
Ever feel like you just need to make a few changes in your wardrobe or maybe you feel lost when it comes to what to wear? Jen is a certified image consultant and personal stylist with years of experience helping women and men define their own style with wardrobe organization and personal shopping.
