We’ve heard it all. Don’t wear red nails on a first date, ladies—that’s for you-know-who. Stay away from anything too trendy—it’s unapproachable. Never, ever wear a hat—it’s intimidating. Always wear heels, preferably stilettos—men like that.
We have one thing to say about all of this: Rules shmules. Throw all that arbitrary nonsense out the window. It plays into antiquated gender roles, and it’s bullshit. Wear what makes you happy and comfortable on a first date, whether that’s a printed DVF wrap dress or a moto jacket with David Bowie’s face plastered on the back. Think of it as a weeding out process. If your date is right for you, they won’t run—no matter what you wear. In fact, they’ll appreciate your quirkiness and who knows? Maybe you’ll skip off into the sunset wearing matching Lebowski T-shirts and camo cargos. Whatever works.
If you’re still feeling unsure, check out some of our favorite celebrity duos below to get inspiration on what to wear on a first date. The outfits run the gamut from dressier numbers to low-key coffee runs. When in doubt, grab your weekend go-to and get down with your bad self.
Images: WENN
Dates
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Gavin Rossdale and Gwen Stefani
In the past, red leather would have been a first date no-no. We beg to differ.
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Chrissy Teigen and John Legend
Who says you can't rock a crop top during round one? Pair it with an elegant, high-waisted trouser and you're ready for the theater.
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David Beckham and Victoria Beckham
If you've tried on everything in your closet and you're still fussing, grab your favorite jeans and a black T-shirt and call it a day.
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Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively
If you're a woman who gets her kicks from flea markets and 60s icons, take a page from Blake's playbook.
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Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel
If you want to look like you didn't think twice about your outfit, then don't. Reach for neutral weekend wear and bleached sneakers. It's the definition of casual cool.
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Kate Moss and Jamie Hince
Why wear sequins on a first date? Because it gives us endless amounts of joy. End of story.
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Jason Sudeikis and Olivia Wilde
If you're running from the office to a dinner date, swap out your blouse for a faded vintage tee and hop in a cab.
Prep time: Five minutes.
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Evan Ross and Ashlee Simpson
We once read that some men don't like when women wear sweatpants. Good thing we didn't ask.
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David Burtka and Neil Patrick Harris
Bottom line: Jeans and a dinner jacket will impress the pants off him.
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Jason Statham and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley
Contrary to popular opinion, you're allowed to show skin on a first date. It's 2014. Run with it.
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Kanye West and Kim Kardashian
Kim knows how to play off ripped jeans and a gigantic bag. The upside? You can sneak Sno-Caps and Twizzlers in there for the movie.
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Keira Knightley and James Righton
He may show up super casual, while you're twirling around in your new Chanel. But that's not necessarily a bad thing.
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Michael Polish and Kate Bosworth
For the ultra-feminine gals, a polished coat and flats will work wonders.
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Jay Z and Beyoncé
From day to night, work to play. We love a two-for-one.
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Portia de Rossi and Ellen DeGeneres
Meeting up for lattes? Don't sweat the small stuff. A jean jacket and a beanie make the cut.
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The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge
Traditionalists, this one's for you. A day dress will work for just about anything, from an early lunch to a museum exhibit.
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Johnny Depp and Amber Heard
Amber proves that you can get away with anything (even sparkle pants) if you throw on a camel coat over it. Tricks of the trade.
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Jessica Alba and Cash Warren
Not too dressy, not too casual. This is the line women toe when they want to be noticed without being the center of attention.
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Olivia Palermo and Johannes Huebl
Speaking of attention, if you're not a wallflower, this isn't the time to tone it down. Show your date your true colors, and see if they're up for the challenge.
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Jenna Lyons and Courtney Crangi
When in doubt, ask yourself: What would Jenna do?
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Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes
Going apple picking? Hiking in the park? Eva can help you out with that.
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Maggie Gyllenhaal and Peter Sarsgaard
If you have a thing for banjo players who drink whiskey, you may want to take a peek at these two lovebirds.
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Ellie Goulding and Dougie Poynter
Whether you're goth, rock 'n' roll or you just had knee surgery, a little metal embellishment goes a long way.
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Justin Theroux and Jennifer Aniston
If he wears tighter jeans than you, there's no need to compete.
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Sasha Knezevic and Anja Rubik
Leather leggings are the spice of life, in and outside the bedroom.
