Ah first dates, in theory they should be something to look forward to but it’s not quite the same in reality.

There are nerves to battle with, considering we don’t know the person at all and we’re about to spend an entire evening with them. So, while you’re texting your best friend multiple times, imagining all the things that can possibly go wrong we are here to help with the biggest dilemma of all, what to wear.

Avoid White

Now we’re not saying you’re clumsy or anything but most people tend to get nervy on a first date. Nerves lead to shaky hands and spillages which we prefer to avoid, if at all possible. Coke at the cinema, pizza sauce in a restaurant or red wine in a bar are all likely to cause terrible stains and no one wants an outfit crisis on a first date.

Think Smart Casual

It’s difficult to get the balance right when dressing for a first date, you don’t want to dress up too much but you do want to look your best. We say keep it casual, you don’t want to scare him off and your favourite LBD might have that effect. Printed trousers and a simple t-shirt are perfect. Print shows off your personality but the tee keeps things casual. Block colour also works well; capped sleeve dresses worn with black tights are an easy way to hit the casual chic trend. The colours you choose reflect your personality and dresses like this can be dressed up with a blazer or down with a knit, depending on the venue for your date.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

High heels worry the opposite sex for three reasons. They can’t understand why we would wear something that could be classed as a weapon on our feet, they make us look much taller than them and they can’t understand how a simple red sole could make us spend a month’s wages. You’re going to be nervous enough without adding a Bambi fall into the list of potential disasters so, leave them at home for one night. Think ankle boots or patent loafers instead.

Less is More

This is a good mantra to remember when dressing for a first date. Keep make up natural, that way if there are any disasters it’s less noticeable. If you notice him looking slightly puzzled, it may be that your false eyelash has detached itself from your eye and nobody wants that happening.

Choose One Statement Piece

First dates are all about getting to know someone and there’s no better way to express yourself than to let your outfit do the talking. Bring along your favourite studded clutch for good luck or wear your new embellished necklace. Remember, your clothes say a lot about your personality so dress to impress.

Curtail Your Inner Magpie

We tend to love our jewellery with the description ‘human Christmas tree’ popping up more than once. Don’t say you’re never been there. It’s probably best to leave your collection of clunky bangles aside as they can become annoying the more they shake and move around. The same with your favourite costume ring, we don’t want you accidentally injuring him on your very first outing.

Follow these simple tips and you should get through the first date without too many glitches. Have a flick though the gallery above to see some of our picks for first date outfits…