Match your outfit to the activity
Your outfit should be tailored to what you're going to do. So you don't put on a dinner jacket when you're going to eat tapas, or a frayed T-shirt in a French restaurant. The art is to dress in such a way that you always make a suitable and well-groomed impression. Smart casual outfits sit between formal and informal. This makes them one of the most versatile combinations you can put together. You also show that you take the date seriously. Hollywood stylist Rachel Zoe once said: “Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak”. Whatever you do, stay close to yourself.
Build from a strong foundation
You radiate confidence when you feel comfortable in your own skin. This is why it's important that your boxer shorts and socks fit comfortably. It's not exactly charming when you're constantly busy adjusting them. Also wear a basic T-shirt so that your sweat is absorbed. One of the most popular garments for men is a smart shirt. Choose neutral or subtle colours so that you can also easily go somewhere else without standing out. You may also undo the top button for a relaxed note in your outfit.
Step out with confidence in the ultimate trousers
The choice of trousers is linked to the desired look. A chino, for instance, looks trendy without coming across as overly formal. So it's casual with a touch of elegance. In addition, they're available in various colours that you can easily match with your shirt. Doesn't a chino suit your personal style? Then you can always go for smart jeans. Unless you're heading to a skatepark or sports field, joggers are not done for a first date. A good tip is to iron or steam your trousers beforehand; that saves a fair bit of creasing.
Choose the right finish
The season and weather are of course also a factor to bear in mind. In autumn and winter, a casual blazer is a nice finishing touch to your smart casual outfit. A pullover is a suitable alternative for extra warmth and refinement. In summer, a top layer is usually not necessary. Should you nonetheless want to wear an extra layer for the cool evening hours on the terrace, an airy linen blazer or zipper is a stylish choice. Choose accessories that don't distract too much. There's nothing wrong with a simple watch, but don't cover yourself in rings and bracelets.
Step out in style with the right shoes
Last but not least, your shoes. It makes sense not to show up on your date in scuffed sports shoes or flip-flops. Leather sneakers are a stylish alternative that you can wear for a variety of occasions. Do you prefer an outfit with a rugged edge? Then you can also see whether a stylish pair of ankle boots suits you. Whatever your choice, it's important that they are smart shoes. Give them a quick clean before you leave, for example with special shoe care products. Also try to avoid puddles or mud pools to keep them neat.
Wait—before you head out the door…
Finally, 5 more points of attention to make the best first impression:
- Choose a subtle scent. Nothing is more of a turn-off than when people smell you before they see you. This of course also applies when you don't wear any fragrance ?
- Don't wear anything with ‘funny' or controversial images and slogans. Your date's attention should be on you, not on your clothing.
- Nothing wrong with a beard or stubble, but do make sure it looks like you know what you're doing. You don't want your date to think you don't own scissors or a trimmer.
- Brush your teeth or have a piece of chewing gum before you meet your date. Believe us, people quickly lose interest when your breath smells of old coffee or garlic.
- Put your phone away during the date. You only make a disinterested impression when your eyes are on a screen the whole time.
