The Wall Street Journal-20080117-Style- Ask Teri
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Style: Ask Teri
[Fashion reporter Teri Agins answers readers' questions]
Q: I want to date someone I don't know that well but have seen at work functions. I would like to present myself as more alluring, but I don't want to look like Casanova. It's like a blind date. What should I wear?
-- P.C., New York City
A: Making the right wardrobe choice for a first date is a tricky proposition.
With the popularity of Internet dating services, more people of all ages are going out on blind dates, when even the most confident singles fret about that vital first impression. You want to look fetching without overdoing it.
Dressing requires the level of care you'd bring to a job interview. Assuming that you're meeting for coffee, drinks or dinner, go for a neutral, unfussy outfit that telegraphs that you're approachable and secure. Focus on the upper half of your body -- so-called "table-top dressing" -- a call to wear your favorite colors and choose the most flattering necklines.
The best options for guys on a date are variations on business casual sportswear, such as an open-collar shirt in prints or solids (white is too bland), a bright sweater or a polo shirt, worn with pressed jeans or pants and neat shoes. A man's secret weapon is a sport coat, which bestows strong shoulders, a slimming, long line, and a courtly look. Pair the right clothes with tall posture and trimmed nails and you'll project pride in yourself.
Women, play up your femininity. But a sexy look on a first date can be risky -- and far too obvious. Avoid heavy makeup, stiletto heels and clothes that are too short, too tight, or flash cleavage. Dial it down. If you're wearing jeans or pants, soften them with a ruffled blouse or trendy, V-neck top. The fail-safe date dress: a wrapped, A- line style, which flatters most body types and injects a dash of flirtiness. Wrap dresses are ideal for dinners, nightclubs and most parties. Lighten up with a small clutch bag that sits pretty on a table.
No matter what looks you're born with, your best ammunition is you. Relax, maintain eye contact, pepper the conversation with smart questions -- and listen.
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