Preparing for your first-ever speed dating event is difficult. Hundreds of questions swirl through your mind — What questions do I ask? How do I share my interests without sounding like a snob? And most importantly, what do I wear?
One thing is clear: First impressions matter. This is especially true for the speed dating format, where you only have 5-10 minutes to get to know the next person. Follow these tips to look confident and comfortable on your first speed dating event:
Comfort, Comfort, and Comfort
Speed dating events are pretty fast-paced. You’ll be sitting and talking to a lot of people while switching places. The last thing you want is a tight blazer restricting your movement and making you sweat.
So, avoid anything too tight, short, or restrictive. Remember, you can dress well without sacrificing comfort.
For instance, high heels might not be the best footwear for a speed dating event. Instead, block heels, platform heels, and even kitten heels are excellent to ensure a stable and comfortable walk.
Understand the Smart-Casual Dress Code
Smart-casual is the generally accepted dress code for speed dating events. That said, what exactly does it mean? Wearing smart-casual is about hitting that sweet spot between sophisticated pieces and relaxed clothes. The aim is to indicate that you made an effort without going overboard.
Smart-casual is an outfit you wear to a semi-formal family dinner, not a Netflix watch party. For women, smart-casual could mean a stylish blouse with well-fitted jeans. Or it could be a knee-length dress with a cardigan.
Men could style a button-down shirt with chino pants. Or wear a sweater with a collared shirt underneath, paired with straight pants.
Loafers and stylish sneakers go well with the smart-casual vibe.
Consider the Venue
Speed dating is pretty popular in countries like Australia. In Melbourne alone, numerous events are held every week. Organisers choose a variety of informal and social venues, such as bars, restaurants, cafes, and dedicated event spaces.
If you’re attending a gay speed dating Melbourne, consider the environment of the venue. Depending on the vibe of the venue, be it upbeat or vintage, you can choose the outfit.
Accessorise Like a Pro
Clothes reflect your fashion sense, but accessories represent your personal style. The right accessories can take your outfit from “cute” to “wow.”
For instance, a timeless watch or a bracelet can make your outfit more sophisticated. A handmade scarf can reflect your personal interests.
Just don’t go overboard. You don’t want to look like a walking jewelry store.
Confidence is Key
Your outfit’s only half the matter — confidence brings everything together.
Feeling anxious and overwhelmed at your first speed dating event is totally normal. So the best thing you can do is pick an outfit that makes you feel good. We all have that one dress that has the perfect fit. Or a shirt that makes our eyes shine.
Pro tip? Do a dress rehearsal. Try on some of your best outfits and walk around.