Dating is stressful for everyone. On top of making plans of where you’re going to go, to eat, or what you’re going to do, you have to pick out what you’re going to wear. We’ve already created a guide on how to plan for a date, but today, we’re focusing on what not to do or, rather, what not to wear.
- What NOT To Wear On A Date
- 1. Damaged, Dirty, or Smelly Clothes
- 2. Ill-Fitting Clothes
- 3. Too Much Cologne
- 4. Clothes That Are Too Casual or Too Formal
- 5. Athletic Wear or Athleisure
- 6. The Wrong Shoes
- 7. Overly Branded Clothing
- 8. Excessive Jewelry
- 9. Unusally Bold Items
- 10. Fussy Clothing
- Conclusion
- Outfit Rundown
What NOT To Wear On A Date
If you avoid the items on this list, you’ll have less to worry about when it comes to picking out your outfit, and you can focus more on having a great time. Please note that this list was made with classic style in mind. So, if that fits you, you might find some of these to your advantage. And even if you’re not into the classic style, we think it’ll still help.
1. Damaged, Dirty, or Smelly Clothes
It should go without being said that your clothes should be freshly laundered. After all, if you have to do the smell test before you put something on, it’s probably best to put it in your hamper. And also, you have no excuse to have bad-smelling laundry because we have guides on how to take care of your garments, and remember, everyday wear can affect the way your garments smell.
So, if you can, it’s best to change out of your work clothes. After all, a fresh set of clothes might help you be in a fresh state of mind as you go out on your date. In addition to your clothes smelling great, they should also look great. After all, if your lucky shirt looks ragged, it won’t help you get lucky.
Understanding what’s acceptable wear and tear will help you get a better understanding of what’s appropriate and what’s not appropriate to wear on a date in this area. Make sure to pay attention to items you might not normally think of, like a tattered belt, stained sneakers, or scuffed dress shoes.
2. Ill-Fitting Clothes
While your clothes might smell nice and look nice, they must fit well. We’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, fit is everything. No matter what you’re wearing, make sure it fits well. After all, having good fit unlocks your clothing’s true potential. Make sure your clothes are properly sized, and well-tailored, and don’t wear things that are too small and uncomfortable.
Trust us, your date will not be impressed with you trying to squeeze into that extra slim-fit shirt. In general, overly tight shirts and jeans are meant to show off your muscles artificially, and this is not a style that we recommend. Comfortable, well-fitting clothing will make you feel better on the date and help you to better enjoy your date’s company.
3. Too Much Cologne
Many men are very concerned about the way they smell when they go on a date, but you shouldn’t go take a bath in Creed before you go out. And in reality, wearing too much cologne will have your date wondering what smells you’re actually masking rather than showing off your love of Creed Aventus.
Also, you might not know that your date has a sensitivity to odors, and this could give them a headache the entire time.
HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?
Two to three spritzes on your wrist or neck should be a reasonable amount to smell good without going overboard.
The solution to bad smells is good hygiene, so make sure to bathe and brush your teeth before you go out. And if you want to add in your favorite cologne, that’s fine. Just apply a reasonable amount. Usually, this is two to three spritzes on the wrist or on your neck. And if you’ve never tried cologne, and you want to, we have a whole guide on that.
The Cologne Guide
4. Clothes That Are Too Casual or Too Formal
We live in an ever-increasingly casual world, but if there’s one time to put your best foot forward, it’s on a date. Wearing clothes that are too casual might imply that you’re not taking the date seriously, and you’re taking your date’s time for granted. Also, if you dress too casually, you might make your date feel overdressed, which might not make them feel very confident.
Obviously, what constitutes as too casual depends on your style, your date’s style, and what you’re going to be doing.
However, there are some items we think are just too casual for most dates, and this is especially true if you’re someone who feels like they adhere to the classic style. Flip-flops or slide sandals, cargo shorts or really any garment with cargo pockets, undershirts worn as regular shirts, and T-shirts with ironic slogans or phrases are not going to contribute to a romantic atmosphere. Also, your date probably won’t find your “I’m with Stupid” T-shirt very funny.
On the other side of the spectrum, you don’t want to overdress. Overdressing might make your date feel self-conscious as well, and it might make them think that you are trying to show off. Keep in mind that if you suggest the venue, let your date know about the dress code, and if your date picks the venue, make sure to ask them what the expected attire is.
It might end up that both of you are the only ones actually following the dress code, but hey, you’ll both look fantastic.
The Dress Code Primer
5. Athletic Wear or Athleisure
Building off our previous topic of clothing that’s too casual, most of the time, athletic wear and athleisure are just too casual for any sort of date. Also, unless you’re planning on taking your date to a sporting event, it’s best to leave your team’s jerseys at home.
not sure about athleisure?
Skip the athletic wear on a date, unless you’re actually working out or doing some sports!
There’s also a reason why most nice restaurants now explicitly forbid sweatpants, tank tops, other gym clothes, and baseball caps. Obviously, there are exceptions to this rule; if you’re going to go on a hike or on a bike ride, athleisure and athletic wear are perfectly fine.
6. The Wrong Shoes
So, you’ve picked out your jacket, your shirt, your pants, and all the accessories, don’t ruin your outfit by picking the wrong pair of shoes. Your shoes might not be at eye level but they have massive importance in your outfit. And on a big date, every detail counts.
When crafting an ensemble, your shoes should never be an afterthought. Fortunately, you’re in luck we have many guides on how to combine shoes with the rest of your outfit. But in summary, please pay particular attention to appropriateness, harmony, and formality.
To keep it short, don’t try to sneak into a Black Tie restaurant wearing spectators. And if you’re wearing mostly lighter elements and colors, don’t wear chunky black shoes. Lastly, if you’re wearing a suit, don’t clash its formality by pairing it with sneakers. Just always remember that the right shoes with the right outfit will make for a great date.
7. Overly Branded Clothing
Here at the Gentleman’s Gazette, we are not big fans of overly branded clothing, and dates are no exception. Excessive, in-your-face branding can be really off-putting, and your date will think that you’re only there to dazzle them with your drip. This can make your date feel self-conscious or inadequate, or just think that you’re a brand snob, or that you’re compensating for something.
After all, using brands to signify wealth and status usually backfires. And even if over-the-top branding doesn’t give your date the wrong idea, it can just be distracting. After all, your Louis fit will take attention away from you if you look like a walking billboard sitting across the table.
![A Louis Vuitton sport-themed look with excessive branding [Image Credit: Louis Vuitton]](https://www.gentlemansgazette.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/louis-1030x576.jpg "Louis")
8. Excessive Jewelry
Jewelry can be a great way to add some small details to any outfit, but it’s possible to have too much of a good thing. Like excessive branding, having too much jewelry might make it seem like you’re trying to show off. No one likes to be subjected to someone trumpeting their success, and wearing too much jewelry can definitely give off that feeling.
To be clear, if you typically wear a lot of jewelry, that’s perfectly fine, but you should never rely on jewelry to artificially boost your confidence. Most of the time, it’ll give your date the wrong impression if you pile on jewelry just to look flashy.
7 Do’s and Don’ts for Men’s Jewelry
Suffice it to say unless that iced-out Rolex or Miami gold Cuban chain is typically part of your attire, it’s not time to break it out on a date.
9. Unusally Bold Items
So, let’s take our jewelry advice and expand it to other parts of your outfit. Keep in mind that a date is not the place to test out a new style. If a three-piece suit is not what you typically wear, a date is not the place to try it out, unless the event calls for it. Dates should be a place of a genuine exchange where both parties are comfortable.
If you don’t typically wear a suit, you’re not going to be comfortable. So, please dress up but in a way that’s comfortable for you, but of course, follow the established dress codes. This suggestion also applies to articles in clothing that are supposed to set the mood.
So, to keep it short, if a leather jacket or leather pants aren’t typically part of your style, don’t wear them here. And leather pants could make you feel quite uncomfortable. If you’re not accustomed to wearing one, a burgundy velvet smoking jacket will not make you sexier, and having your date picture Hugh Hefner is not a great idea either. And if red just isn’t your color, a red jewel-tone shirt is not a good idea.
Basically, at the end of the day, if you’re not comfortable in a garment, it’s going to show on the date, and that will adversely affect the mood. So, stick to items that you’re accustomed to, and if you want to get something new, pick something that you already know and like, like a new pair of socks or a new pocket square. A new pair of Fort Belvedere socks are more likely better and more versatile than a pair of leather pants.
10. Fussy Clothing
So, after all this time spent picking the right outfit for your date, just remember that you’re taking your date out – not your suit! So, whatever you choose to wear, make sure that it’s not fussy, and by this, we mean to make sure that that garment doesn’t require a lot of extra attention.
For example, every moment you spend running into the bathroom to make sure that your ivory dinner jacket doesn’t have a stain on it is the moment you could be spending enjoying your dinner. If your outfit’s too fragile or too finicky that it requires constant attention, don’t wear it.
You shouldn’t be going over your clothes with a magnifying glass; you should be paying attention to your date. No matter what you’re wearing or how good it looks, if you spend all the time focusing on the outfit, the date was a failure. So, focus on having fun on your date and less on the sleeve pitch of your sports jacket.
Conclusion
We hope that you’ve seen a consistent theme throughout our list. When dressing for a date, opt for clothes that fit your style, fit the occasion, and show that you put in a special effort. Also, stay away from clothes that take away from the evening and give false Impressions.
Ultimately, the clothing that we choose shows how we respect others, and respect is everything when it comes to a date. While I can’t make dating any easier for you, we hope that this guide is going to make dressing for the date much easier.
What’s your typical date outfit? Share it with us in the comments!
Outfit Rundown
In today’s outfit, I’m wearing something that would be great for a casual and laid-back date with my wife. All the items that I’ve chosen are simple; I don’t have to worry about them if they get stained or dirty, and can get beat up a little bit. I’m wearing an army green jungle jacket. This is great for maybe a movie date. You can put in your tickets and even smuggle in candy. For my shirt, I’m wearing a made-to-measure shirt from Becket and Robb. This is a denim shirt. Denim is a really great bridge for its casual nature, but with a more structured collar, it dresses it up. For my pants, I’m wearing a simple pair of tan chinos from L.L Bean. I don’t care if these get dirty, and they wash easily.
To keep the outfit a little bit more dressed down with the casual jacket, I’m wearing a pair of white sneakers. These are from Oliver Cabell. My socks are our brown and cream striped socks from Fort Belvedere. If you’re interested in these socks or any other socks, check out the Fort Belvedere shop.
Don’t wear a Viking helmet on a date, but a pith helmet shows you are taking the date seriously. Don’t take a date seriously, take it humorously.
Since this is the Gentleman’s Gazette, it is assumed this advice applies to us fellows. That said, I would add: Never compete or detract from her dress style. She should be the center of attention.
I have successfully applied this principal for over 55 years with Mrs. no regrets.
Building on your comment I would advise, though, to dress on a similar level of formality to the lady. I went to a theatre show and was appalled to see one couple where the lady was dressed up as if she were going to the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival and the man was dressed in board shorts, hoodie and thongs. It made him the centre of attention and for all of the wrong reasons…
Loro Piana Worth It? 10 Things men should NEVER wear on a date. Such extreme topics and audiences. Amusing.
You should have professional models model the clothes instead of frumpy men always picking at their clothes.
What ‘ frumpy men ‘ are you talking about ?
Professional models ?
I don’t think so.
Re: Choice of vocabulary:
1) Preston: What is “ratty” about that t-shirt?
2) Nathan: If it’s with your wife, it’s not called a “date”.
you can and should continue to date your wife.
1) You must concede: it’s pretty faded and while not stained, the Batman graphic (especially with it peeling off) gives it something of a juvenile vibe. Paired with the baseball cap, it altogether gives the appearance an underdressed little boy.
2) Plenty of married couples have date nights or lunch dates or whatever. Basically, just another way of describing a night or day out with one’s spouse free of children and/or any other additions
I live for date nights with my wife! Thinking of outings with one’s spouse as dates is an excellent—and enjoyable—way to maintain enthusiasm for the relationship over the long haul.
it asked “What’s your typical date outfit? Not who can leave the snarkiest comment. I usually wear blue jeans with a casual button down shirt and sport coat for a date with my wife for this time of the year.
Thank you, James – lovely outfit choice. What footwear would you add to the ensemble?
Casual date: in my world a boot cut jean with a pair of Frye vintage light mule skin boots, athletic fit polo shirt and a Mantini lt grey Mid length jacket.
Good to go pretty much anywhere accept to a formal event.
Interesting, thank you for sharing, D! Do you have a preferred colour for your polo shirts?
For a date that is casual I would usually wear something along the lines of “smart casual”. In colder seasons I would probably wear a turtleneck or v neck with a tie and an optional sports coat paired with either chinos or dress pants with a more causal dress shoe (chukka shoes, monk straps, loafers, brogues). In summer I would probably just wear a linen or breathable dress shirt with lightweight trousers and loafers without socks; possibly a panama hat. What is important is not to look to extreme, this is especially important for first dates where your date may be startled by your enthusiasm (or lack of) for style. Try wearing something deliberate for that date or occasion while still looking put together overall. As mentioned in the article one should definitely avoid athleisure, dirty clothes, ill fitting clothes, etc. Overall try to stay slightly above being casual but don’t be overly formal unless it is called for.
Some great thoughts and outfit ideas – thanks for sharing, William.
I would say the article and the comments are true. Here is one more thing to consider, is this date with your wife or girlfriend, or is this a first date with someone new. if, it’s with your wife or girlfriend then take a hint at what she is wearing this will tell you alot, but if this is a “first time” date and you know where you are going ie restrurant call ahead and find out the requirements for attire. this will help you before you even leave your labode (house)
Oh GG, you forgot an important one :) No Crocs! For classic menswear enthusiasts this should be a given but for newbies to GG or novices to dating who’ve come across this article through a Google search, take heed! I’m amazed at how many people (men and women alike) who wear Crocs out of the house and with the wrong outfit. Then again, that comes under wearing the wrong shoes.
Hopefully, it goes without saying that Crocs are a “no” when coming to the Gentleman’s Gazette, but I suppose it’s helpful to restate it here.
You would be amazed at how many think ‘expensive’ = can be worn in every situation even the most formal because of the cost. Look at those who pay hundreds if not thousands for jeans that look like they’ve been pulled from a dumpster or have been worn for 20 years by a farmhand. I could just the ignorant thinking the price and brand of these Crocs would be an allowance to wear them as formalwear.
I’m a big fan, Nathan. You present very, very well.