Dating | Singles | Personals | Matchmaking | Dating Sites

Dating Tips for Men

By Emily Heart

Dressing for a first date is as important for men as it is for women. It goes without saying that the impression you make when you first start dating someone will decide whether you progress to a second or third date, so getting it right, or at least not getting it totally wrong, the first time around is crucial.

DO: be comfortable and be yourself

It can be tempting to go all out when you’re dating someone new and spend time dressing to impress. While the location will dictate what you should wear to some extent, most women will not expect a man to put on a suit for a first date, and anything too formal could make the occasion seem a bit stuffy and uptight. It’s always best when dating to choose clothes you feel most confident and relaxed in, ensuring that all items of clothing are fresh and clean. Being clean and well-groomed are much better things to focus on for a first date than wearing an expensive or flashy suit.

DON’T: overdo the aftershave

One of the most common mistakes among men who are trying to impress women is arriving in a thick haze of pungent-smelling aftershave or cologne. While marginally preferable to body odour, wearing too much aftershave is like wearing a massive sign which says ‘out on the pull’. It’s very distracting and hard to take someone seriously when they are emanating a strong smell, so try to keep it subtle.

DO: pick your shirt carefully

Dating can be nerve-wracking and this presents a particular sartorial issue for many men, which advance planning can prevent – sweat patches. Sweat patches are very unappealing for the woman you’re dating and embarrassing for you, so it’s important to eliminate this risk in the first place. Choose your shirt carefully; ideally pick one which you know does not show sweat. If you are wearing a new shirt, it should be made of a breathable fabric such as cotton, rather than nylon or man-made fabrics.

DON’T: experiment

Dating is not a good time to experiment with unknowns. New shoes and clothes can have a habit of bringing unwanted surprises the first time you wear them, which will not be welcome when you’re trying to focus on the person you are dating. New grooming products can also have a habit of behaving in unexpected ways. In all elements of your presentation, therefore, try to stick to what you know has worked well in the past and don’t be tempted to try and wow your date with a drastically new style. Hats, for example, go in and out of fashion, but these should be removed during a date as they can be distracting and make it seem that you are hiding something. Sunglasses in the evening are always, always wrong: she knows you’re not an undercover celebrity.

DO: Wear a good pair of shoes

Many men, with arguably less style options open to them then there are to women, end up channelling all their fashion sensibilities into ‘directional’ shoes. Women, however, tend to appreciate a more classic style of footwear on men. If you are wearing jeans then aim for a clean and classic pair of trainers. If the rest of your clothes are smarter, choose a classic and smart pair of shoes. With footwear, it’s safest to keep it classic, and to always make sure shoes are clean. Scruffy shoes will imply you have made no effort for the person you are dating. One last dating rule for shoes: never, ever, wear socks with sandals.