Initially, I will say that first impressions do matter. We’d all love to say that we choose to go on dates solely based on personality rather than looks, but that’s not entirely accurate. Appearance and fashion can say a lot about who you are and the type of person you may be. Speaking from a woman’s experience, we use fashion to infer a lot about the other person. I’ve been reliably informed that men seem to care less.
Wearing clothes that make you feel confident means that naturally, that confidence will shine through, directly translating to our attitude and outlook.
It’s not really about what you wear, but how you wear it. There’s a concept called ‘enclothed cognition’ which explains that what we wear affects our mindset and behaviour. Wearing clothes that make you feel confident means that naturally, that confidence will shine through, directly translating to our attitude and outlook. Rather than following trends, by finding your own style, you can be comfortable, confident and put-together – traits that are appreciated when looking to date.
‘The Girlfriend Effect’ shows us that fashion doesn’t necessarily affect everyone’s decisions when choosing who to date. 'The Girlfriend Effect’ (the capital letters are deserved) is a social media trend wherein people claim that men become more fashionable and stylish after entering a romantic relationship due to their girlfriend's influence on their appearance. It shows us that when we look to date someone, we’re not too bothered about face value, but rather the person within. The same can apply to all different types of relationships – so your style being confirmative to social norms is not a requirement when dating.
There is, however, a caveat, and that is to dress to the style of the date. Going on a hike? Athletic wear is your best bet. Dinner date? Please do not show up in a tracksuit, I beg of you. A cute walk and grabbing coffee? Wear your comfiest jeans if you please. You get the idea.
Wear what makes you feel confident, and you’ll find the right person that is attracted to your outside and inside.