Tinder-Ready Look: Notification — one unread message. The back and forth messaging begins. The connection seems instant and the conversation is flowing easily. A strong connection leads to a first date. Suddenly, you have butterflies and this person is consuming your every thought. What could be better? Dating is fun, new, and often exciting. But how do you meet that special someone?
Online dating apps are a great way to meet potential love interests. But are you ready to actually go on in-person dates? Here are five tips for looking your best on your next date.
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1. Work On What You’re Self-Conscious About
If you’re self-conscious about certain aspects of your appearance, then you’re not going to feel confident. If you’re not confident, then you’re really not ready to jump into dating at all. Sure, you can edit those four to six profile photos to make yourself look better, but you shouldn’t. Then you’re not putting your true, authentic self out there. People will quickly realize if you weren’t portraying your true self online when they meet you in person.
Instead of trying to create a version of yourself online that isn’t real, get to the root of the problem. If you’re self-conscious about something, change it. Not only will you improve your online dating profile, but you’ll feel more confident overall. And confidence is attractive! For example, instead of using editing tools to cover up zits or wearing tons of makeup, get serious about fixing breakouts. Using an acne treatment can help you clear up your acne for good.
2. Dress to Impress on Dates
The right outfit can make all the difference in how confident and comfortable you feel. Even if you feel happy with your wardrobe, buying a few staple pieces for date nights isn’t a bad idea. A new outfit can result in a complete attitude shift. If you look good, you feel good. And if you feel good, you’ll likely go on great first dates.
In addition to helping boost your confidence, fashion is a great way to express yourself. People appreciate authenticity, especially when dating. It can be hard getting to know someone for who they truly are. The more upfront you are about who you are from the beginning, the better.
Consider buying a few new pieces for your wardrobe to wear on dates. A casual blazer or leather jacket is a good staple. A few good pairs of jeans are a must. Then, buy tops and jewelry that feel like you. This is where you can really express yourself. Are you someone who likes neutral, muted colors? Or, do you like bright, in-your-face patterns? Think about what screams you the most, and make sure you dress to impress on your next date.
3. Make Being Active a Priority
Whether you’re doing high-intensity workouts a few times a week or just going on daily walks, exercise is exercise. Being active has so many benefits outside of just improving your physique. Think about what your specific goals are and then choose your activity based on that.
If you want to tone your muscles, start weight lifting. If you just want more energy, then start incorporating morning walks into your routine. Do you want a combination of both? If you want to burn calories, improve your mood, and boost energy, try at-home workouts. There are great workout apps that allow you to get moving while at home.
No matter what you end up choosing, just make sure that when you decide to be active, you stick with it. Whatever activity you do, consistency is key for seeing results. Once you see results, whether they be in your mood or physique, you’ll be that much more prepared for dates.
4. Show Your Hair Some Love
Similar to your style, the first date hairstyle that you choose says a lot about you. Curly, voluminous hair can say that you’re fun and ready to have a good time. Whereas a slicked-back ponytail often gives the message that you mean business. What do you want your hair to say?
It’s also important that you take good care of the health of your hair. Damaged hair will never look as good as healthy hair no matter how long you take to style it. Greasy, dirty hair sends a message that you might have bad hygiene. Neither are something you want on a first date. For healthier hair, consider investing in new products.
A high-quality dry shampoo, deep conditioning treatment, and hair oil are essential. Dry shampoo is great for days where you’re in-between washes. A deep conditioner provides hydration and improves your hair’s health. An oil increases moisture and shine.
5. Focus On Self-Care
You simply won’t look your best if you’re not taking care of yourself. Self-care means getting a sufficient amount of sleep every night. It could mean treating yourself to a blowout or a mani/pedi. It could mean dinner with friends or a spa day to de-stress and decompress. Whatever you need to feel and look your best should be a priority.
In order to put your best foot forward while dating, you have a lot of maintenance and upkeep to think about. A potential partner might not even realize all of the work you put in to look good just for them! Because of this, it’s important that you take time for yourself. Whatever self-care looks like for you, be sure to carve out time for it each and every week. You’ll be much happier, hence, you’ll be looking your best.
At the end of the day, the right person will love you for who you are. But there’s nothing wrong with trying to look and feel your best. If it’s going to help you feel more confident, all the better. True love or even a deep connection is something that most people long for. But in order to find it, you have to keep an open mind. You never know what a swipe right could lead to.
