5 Secrets to date night style success

Focus on function

While it can be very tempting to wear something that veers completely into fashion over function territory, you can't discount comfort – especially while on a date. Think about it – if what you're wearing looks amazing but is causing you discomfort (too-tight shoes, too-short skirt, weird neckline you have to keep adjusting), you will be much too distracted to have a great time. Leave the ultra-trendy looks at home in favor of outfits that you're comfortable in, suit your body type and accentuate your best physical attributes.

Avoid going overboard

If this is a first date, you likely want to impress your potential paramour, but going over the top with big hair, a face full of makeup, cleavage everywhere and sky high heels can give your new guy the wrong impression. You want to appear polished, pulled together and confident – not like you just stepped out of the latest episode of the Real Housewives of New Jersey.

Once you're dressed and ready to go, assess the final product in the mirror. It's a good idea to self-edit and remove one thing if the outfit is looking overdone. Lose the bling, take off the false eyelashes or trade the mega-tight top for something that leaves more to the imagination.

Be prepared for anything

Your date might involve after-work drinks or dinner, but you don't know where the night might take you. What if he has to park three blocks away and you're in heels you can't walk in? What if you end up playing an impromptu game of mini golf (cheesy but cute) after dessert and you're in a skirt that keeps riding up? The point is to dress in a way that leaves you room to deal with the unexpected. Don't wear your favorite suede boots if you know it's going to rain and don't wear the shoes you haven't broken in if you don't know how far you'll be walking.

Pack the essentials

We don't suggest lugging your whole makeup bag with you on your date but packing a few items that will keep you looking fresh and fabulous is always a good idea.

• Breath mints (especially if there might be garlic involved)
• Oil blotting papers to banish shine without messing up your makeup
• Mini deodorant if you have space
• Lip gloss or stain for quick touch-ups
• Small compact mirror (good for touch-ups and making sure you don't have parsley in your teeth)

Stay in your comfort zone

The first date is not the time to try something that's so fashion forward it takes you outside of what you're comfortable wearing and that isn't really "you." If you never wear stilettos, why start now? If short skirts aren't your thing, don't wear one on your date. Stay within your style comfort zone so you look like you, not an over-styled version of yourself.

Why it's important: If you don't look like you, acting like you is going to be tough, and one of the most important things you can do on a first date to make a lasting impression is to be yourself.

More first date advice

First date conversation

First dates are usually so nerve racking! Here are some tips and tricks that will make those first date conversations fun and engaging.

More style tips & trends

Poncho looks
Go bold this fall with eye-catching color
Pretty Little Things: 5 Stylish coats for fall