For a classic dinner and a movie date, you’ll know to dress in nicer, fancier clothes. Don’t forget to discuss exactly where dinner will be, so that you can gauge how dressy you need to be. For a hiking date, casual jeans and a t-shirt or gym clothes are perfectly acceptable first date wear!

Although it’s not necessary to go shopping, wearing something new will show your date that you’ve made extra effort.

Don’t be afraid to ask a trusted friend or family member for an honest opinion. It would be a good idea to keep a few outfit ideas in mind for that special day, just in case something breaks or the weather takes a sudden turn for the worse.

If you don’t feel comfortable wearing tight, low-cut, or see-through clothing, then don’t wear that! You should also take movement into consideration. If you’re going ballroom dancing or horseback riding, be sure to wear something that you can move comfortably in.

Not only will you feel more relaxed, but it will be easier for your date to get to know and adore you! While you certainly want to impress your date, don’t try to appeal to what you think they like. Don’t try to be someone you are not.

If you did buy new clothes, be sure to remove tags and stickers. Sometimes, they like to hide and you don’t want your date to be the one to find one while you’re out! To ensure that your outfit stays neat and clean, consider keeping it and any extra accessories stored inside a closed garment bag in your closet, until you are ready to wear it.

If you plan to wear makeup, try out your intended look a few days before your date as well. Knowing how you plan to do your hair and/or makeup will help you feel more prepared, relaxed, and confident on the special day.

If you feel like you have to dress a certain way to impress your date, they probably aren’t right for you. You deserve to be adored for who you are!

Grab a raincoat if it’s raining, or re-think your long-sleeved shirt and pants, if it’s unseasonably warm. If the weather is particularly wet or snowy, consider wearing a pair of boots during travel and taking your nice pair of shoes to change into once you arrive at your destination. If you know your date’s size, grab an extra sweater, umbrella, or raincoat if the weather is bad, in case he or she doesn’t think to bring one. Your date will be impressed by the sweet gesture and that you thought to plan ahead.

If you need extra time to blow-dry your hair before you style it, make sure you allot enough time.

Have a back-up plan. If something does go wrong, put on the other outfit that you considered wearing.

Pack something comfortable, so you’re prepared to go with the flow!

Make sure your cell phone is charged in case of an emergency. It’s always a good idea to bring a little extra cash with you, in case the date doesn’t go well and you need to get a ride home or the date goes so well, you splurge for extra dessert.

If you are so nervous that you can’t function, consider doing a relaxing activity before your date, such as meditating or a deep-breathing exercise.

Say something like, “would it be alright if I wear some perfume for the date?” or “would you mind if I put on some cologne?” Deodorant is always a good idea, but be careful not to over-apply that either, especially if it is fragranced.

Alternatively, consider wearing an anti-sweat or anti-shine makeup setting spray. You can also apply a light dusting of setting powder before you head out.

Another reason to avoid excessive jewelry is that it might get in the way. Depending on where you are going, you might also become a target for theft.

Another reason to avoid tans and haircuts before dates is that they can go wrong. If you end up with a bad tan or haircut, you may not have enough time to fix it. Sometimes, a hair cut may be a good option. For example, if your hair looks unruly and messy, a good trim may help eliminate split ends and get your hair back into shape.