What to Wear on a Date

After polling both myself AND my husband, it was conclusively agreed that effortless conversation was the number one social indicator of a successful date.  And an easy conversation begins before you ever part your lipstick-stained pout.

Following are four steps for successful speaking in clothes:

Step one:  Mirror
Simultaneous head nodding and mutual head tilting are physical manifestations of an intangible connection.  Strengthen the link via wardrobe.  If he is East Coast prep and you are West Coast bohemian, consider the nautically striped maxi dress.  Find points of fashion commonality and gently orchestrate efforts to look like a couple.

But don’t forsake your genuine nature but do make token acknowledgments of the culture you are visiting.  This includes the company and the environment.  Even if you wear high-heeled slippers to bed, be willing to adapt to casual encounters.  While it’s better to be overdressed than under, aim for a variance of under ten percent when compared to your surroundings.

Step two:  Don't Speak in Trends
Women use fashion-forward clothing to stamp out their social hierarchy, but most men don’t speak exotic fashion dialects.  Make sure you send him social cues in a language he can understand.  Happy banter begins with common language, so reserve the harem pants for your girl’s night out.

Step three:  Avoid Sartorial Expletives and Raiment Rambling
Your clothing should make an introduction, not dominate the conversation.  While you may see the plaid jumpsuit as a perfect translation of your inner core, wait for a more committed relationship to share it.  Just as tackling religion and politics isn’t advisable on an introductory date, neither are overly bold or personal clothing items.  Hint at your rich soul through whimsical accessories rather than virtually flashing your date with a neon mu-mu complete with screen-printed traffic signal.

Step four:  Be comfortable 
The only thing equivalent to the repellant power of sweat pants is a preoccupation with clothing restrictions or potential wardrobe malfunctions.  If it requires double sided tape, overly constrictive undergarments, or other acrobatics, opt out.  It’s very difficult to be charming when you are simultaneously sucking your abdomen in and tugging your skirt down.

Likewise, don’t corset your natural style.  Now is not the time to audition for a new role.  Prepare your best, genuine self then shed your self-conscious glances in the mirror.  Focus your energy on investigating the other person.