Congratulations! Your first date went well (which is not always the case). Maybe you both even felt a little – or a lot – of fireworks going off. What now? Getting ready for a second date can be nerve-wracking.
Time to test whether or not your chemistry has potential. In addition to your confidence, conversation, and energy level, how you look is still very important. Since mutual attraction plays a major part in any long-lasting connection, we’re sharing how men and women should dress for a second date at a restaurant.
First and foremost, both men and women need to decide how dressy or casual to be. Going to a restaurant for dinner or drinks? Type the place you’re going to into an online search engine, and see how many dollar signs in its ranking.
If it is ranked a $, this means it is very casual. Think pizza place, sports bar, café, or just an order-at-the-counter joint. Hopefully, it’ll be nicer than a $ restaurant unless there’s a good reason like it’s a lot of fun. In warmer months, women can wear jeans/shorts and a tank or cute shirt, sandals, and in case of major air-conditioning, a sweater. When it’s cooler, pair a cute sweater and boots with your jeans. Men, in warmer months, wear jeans/shorts, a short-sleeved collared shirt, and loafers, like docksiders. If colder outside, make it a long-sleeved collared shirt, and nicer leather winter shoes. Everyone, please refrain from flip-flops at all times while on any and all dates – except for water-related dates.
Most restaurants are ranked $$, so it’s advisable to put some thought into what to wear. These restaurants are where an entrée averages about $19.00. Think trendy Italian, hip tapas joints, or contemporary American eateries. On warm days, women can wear a semi-fitted, perhaps flowing dress – try a powerful color like spicy red. Pair it with thicker-heeled shoes, if that makes sense, or cute open-toed sandals. For the colder months, wear warmer colors, including black. Flattering dark jeans or faux-leather leggings with a nice blouse, topped with a stylish leather or suede jacket and booties or heeled riding boots. Ladies, it’s time to flaunt one asset of your body, like your chest, shoulders, or legs.
Men, wear business casual, pairing chinos or nice dark jeans with a nice button-down shirt and some sleek brown leather shoes and belt. Chukka boots work for summer and cooler months!
If the establishment boasts a $$$ or $$$$ ranking – think steakhouses – it’s time to wear your fancier options. Women, that means wearing a really nice fitted dress, simple chic high heels, and jewelry; and, while you should be well groomed for every date, have your hair, nails, and makeup done perfectly. Walk out of your house like you’re going to a top-shelf cocktail party or your birthday dinner. Men, look like you’re going to a business dinner by pairing dress pants, button-down shirt, and jacket – the tie is optional.
As always, wearing a genuine smile will complement your outfit in spectacular fashion. Last piece of advice (for this article, that is): Since attraction can cloud your thinking a little, to facilitate what you’ll talk about, spend some time in advance of the second date recalling what you’ve discussed in person, on the phone, and online..