* Always dress for a first date in clothing that is both neat and clean. This says a lot about your personal hygiene, self-respect and ability to take care of yourself. Make a good effort to be as presentable as possible - wash and style your hair. Make sure your teeth are brushed and bathe or shower before your date.
* Avoid buying a new outfit when you dress for a first date. This can make you appear to be trying too hard and will make your date wonder what the rest of your wardrobe looks like.
New clothes can also be uncomfortable and the last thing you need is to discover that your bra has come unhooked or your new skirt shows off more than your legs!
* Consider wearing a favorite outfit if it suits the occasion - This will make you feel confident and comfortable and this translates into better self-esteem at a time when you are likely to be a tad nervous.
* Choose your outfit based on the venue for the date. If you are going to a rock concert, you could go with ultra-trendy or semi-casual but don't overdo it with a death-metal T-shirt (unless you know your date will be wearing one too!) or green streaked hair.
* Colors you may consider wearing when you dress for a first date include blues, black (don't overdo it) and earthy tones like brown or beige. You could also go with the latest fashion colors like pink or orange, but keep it understated. This is not the time to be sporting that really short, really red, backless mini-dress.
* Stick to basic fabrics and add interesting touches with a suede jacket or silk scarf. If you are wearing pants (a perfectly acceptable choice these days). You might want to avoid leather on a first date and please, please don't wear a hat (unless you are going to a rodeo or sports event, that is!).
* Clothing items you can try are a nice smart blouse and skirt set, a skirt and twin set or a simple dress with strappy sandles. If you absolutely must wear denim, make sure it's a fairly new pair and pick a smart-casual shirt that will tone in with the blue or black denim. As with denim, jeans and a T-shirt will only work if the venue is outdoors and super-casual.
* Don't forget your shoes and stockings when you dress for a first date. Many a fabulous outfit has been ruined by forgetting to wear a good pair of shoes and stockings if appropriate. Always choose your shoes to match your outfit for example a summer dress and airy sandals or boots and a calf length skirt in winter.
*Your shoes should be clean and polished if need be and suit the time and place, your outfit and the weather. Make sure your shoes tone with your suit or pants if you are wearing one, and that they are clean. If you are going to invest in anything new for a first date, a new pair of shoes would be it, but make 100% sure that they are comfortable.
* Pay attention to your accessories - These include your watch, belt and any jewelry you may be wearing and other items like cell phones or pagers. For example, if you are separated, or in the process of a marriage break-up don't wear your wedding band or engagement ring.
