DressCoded is an original Revelist series that provides on-point outfits for life's toughest fashion scenarios. You're welcome.
There are few events in life that are more nerve-wracking and stressful than a first date — especially when that first date is with a virtual stranger you met on Tinder. Those dates can cause about a million question to run through your mind beforehand. What if we don't hit it off? What if they look nothing like their profile photos? What if they don't think I look like my picture?
But there's one question you always have to ask yourself before a first blind-ish date that's far more important: What the heck should I wear to this thing?
Date-outfit option number one is for the casual, edgy girls who dig no-pressure coffee dates right off the bat.
Red Check Mini Skirt With Asymmetric Zip ($48, ASOS)
This tartan-inspired patterned skirt, which is available in plus and straight sizes, is a prime item to have around in general, but especially for autumn dates. Just imagine how cute and cozy you'll look wearing this baby with tights while sipping on a cinnamon latte in a coffee shop window.
MTV Cheetah Print Logo T-Shirt ($23, Hot Topic)
A lot of people might find wearing a T-shirt to a date wrong, but hear us out: Not only are graphic tees comfy enough to ease some of the inevitable nervousness, but they're an instant conversation starter. Putting your interests at the forefront of your outfit could quickly reveal something you and your date have in common.
Dr. Scholl's Faxon Loafer ($80, Nordstrom)
If you're worried about any potential height difference between you and your date, a flat shoe is 100 percent the way to go. Heels might deliver more in the power department, but that's what the black leather and pointed toe on this pair of über-comfortable shoes are for.
Daisy Chain Crossbody Bag ($48, Topshop)
Nothing can make a date awkward faster than awkward purse digging when you're trying to find your wallet. Avoid that altogether with a bold, color-coordinating crossbody that can keep your wallet, perfume, lipstick, and phone at the ready.
Mia Mixed Metal Statement Earring ($16, Urban Outfitters)
This outfit's pretty casual, but a sneaky way to spice it up and draw attention to your eyes is with an extremely shiny pair of dangling earrings.
If you're skipping the coffee date and heading straight for the candlelit dinner, opt for an outfit that amps up the romance but is equally comfortable.
Boohoo Crochet Lace Peplum Bell Sleeve Top ($39, ASOS)
Few fabrics are deemed more romantic or ~mysterious~ than lace. This blouse's flowing peplum structure and peekaboo cutouts are as visually alluring as they are stylistically versatile.
SPANX Faux Leather Leggings ($98, Shopbop)
Yes, you can wear leggings on a date. Thanks to SPANX's thick, leather-like coating, leggings are now structurally sound enough to wear on even the most romantic of evenings. The best part? They won't restrict you from eating to your heart's content, because even if you're not feeling the date, chances are you'll be feeling that four-formaggi lasagna you just ordered.
14th & Union Audry Pointed Toe Pump ($40, Nordstrom Rack)
Dinner dates are mostly spent sitting, so what's the harm in wearing the brightest, boldest pumps you can find? Given this pair's block heels, they'll still be comfortable enough for a post-meal stroll.
Madewell The Leather Pouch Clutch ($50, Madewell)
This outfit combines a lot of different textures and already has one pretty damn bold color highlight. That being said, keeping the bag as simple as possible is a good idea. This one sticks to the same small-bag principle as the last outfit.
DesignB London Abstract Gold Shapes Hair Slide Pack ($10, ASOS)
Another sneaky way to bring all the attention up to your face? Big, brassy hair clips. Use them to pin back your hair on one side, and your date won't be able to keep their eyes away.
Post-work drinks? How about a little vintage flair?
Mystery Master Velvet Jumpsuit ($89, ModCloth)
Deep green velvet just screams, "I am a luxury bitch!" That makes it perfect for both work and a date. Its texture just begs to be touched and stared at — plus, the wide legs make it super comfortable.
Glamorous Barely There Kitten Heels ($38, ASOS)
Kitten heels automatically add a retro touch to any outfit, but this pair's thin straps keep it appropriate for modern day.
Tortoiseshell Minaudiere ($50, Zara)
The rich brown hue of this quirky minaudiere bag's tortoise pattern will pop brightly against the deep green of the jumpsuit. Your unique choice will show your possible-partner that you've got creativity and imagination to spare.
Faux Stone Cocktail Ring ($4, Forever21)
Because you're drawing a lot of attention toward your hand with that bag, why not add a little bit of sparkle? A cocktail date calls for a cocktail ring, after all.
