It’s all well and good to mythologize first dates and believe that when you find your soulmate you’ll look deeply into each others’ eyes while everything else blurs in the background. like smooth bokeh at f/1.8. Most of the time that’s not what happens, though: You’re asking questions, sniffing around for pheromones, looking at the way she’s dressed. She’s doing the same, and while you may not win her heart by dressing well, you can certainly lose out on a second date by dressing like a schlub. Dress well and dress for the occasion — and your winning personality will take care of the rest. Here are some suggestions for how to elevate your style on that all-important first date.
Taking Out Honey Ryder
Start practicing your martini order — shaken, not stirred — because you’ll need to act suave as hell to pull off this formal attire. Done properly though, knowing you have to wear a tux can relieve some of the pressure of what to wear. Just make sure your date knows ahead of time that you’ll be dressed to the nines.
Brooklyn Tailors Tuxedo Jacket ($770)
Brooklyn Tailors Tuxedo Trouser ($305)
J.Crew Ludlow Piqué Tuxedo Shirt ($98)
Kingsman Bow Tie ($125)
Brooks Brothers Silk Formal Hose ($40)
Alice Made This James Rhodium Cufflinks ($248)
Dior Eau Sauvage ($65)
Detroit Watch Company M1-Woodward Silver Dial ($1,850)
Magnanni Cesar Black ($350)
David Kind Richmond Glasses($295)
Casual (But Not Too Casual)
Dating in the 21st century is rarely strictly formal, but you can still show a flash of class with your dress. Don’t wear dad’s old blue collar or your high school dance corduroys. Invest to impress with some of these quality casual threads.
Rag & Bone Graydon Pant Beige ($140)
Onassis Dobby Dot Shirt ($168)
Steven Alan Bucket Pocket Oliver Jacket ($346)
John Lobb Buckles William II ($1,480)
Oak & Oscar The Burnham Watch ($1,650)
Quixotic The Monday Pocket Square ($35)
Falke Henna Sock ($30)
Kiehl’s Essence Oils ($26)
