First Date 101

MANILA, Philippines – Congratulations! You have a date! Now what? 

Let’s face it, first dates are always tricky. Oftentimes the hassle of arranging the logistics, what to wear, what to talk about, is enough to intimidate a nervous singleton into not going on one at all. Now, we can’t help you out with the chemistry and the spark (sorry folks, that’s all up to you) but we can help you ease the worry a little bit with this handy guide.

I’m a confused 20-something who is clueless when it comes to dating so I asked help from one of the happiest couples I know — Dominique Tiu and Enzo Ladrido — to help me figure out the do’s and don’ts of going on a first date, and here are some tips to get you started (yes, boys, we have advice for you too):

When you’re planning what to wear:

Ditch the painful heels and that cut-out, backless, too-tight number. “A pretty casual dress and sensible shoes will do!” says Domz. “Don’t wear anything too revealing, don’t wear something so plain either. Dress nicely and appropriately, show that you made an effort to dress up on a date.”  

Here’s another tip: “Wear something with a hint of feminine details: floral prints, bows, light pleasant colors.” 

Hold on, guys don’t want sexy? Enzo agrees. “Nothing too revealing! Something elegant or simple — nothing too loud, nothing that shows off too much skin.”

And for guys, leave that graphic-shirt-jeans-sneakers outfit in the closet. Barney Stintson is on to something when he tells Ted to “Suit up.” But that’s a little too much for a casual date. And most girls would agree with Domz on this one: “I want him to wear something sharp. I don’t want him to look like he rolled out of bed, unkempt.” 

How about a button down? “A long sleeved button down folded to your elbows paired off with denim/trousers and loafers will do the trick. If it’s a movie date, just top off with a pair of trendy jacket,” says Enzo. 

You’ve got the clothes, you’ve set the date, what’s next? 

Feeling the urge to diss your ex? Don’t. “Never talk about your ex or bring up your past relationships,” says Enzo. “Look for common factors so you won’t ever find yourself stuck in awkward silence!”

Guys, make an effort. “When you take a girl out on a date, never settle for a place that’s convenient for you (i.e., one that’s near your place). Always make an effort to fetch her and always go out of your way to bring her somewhere she’ll enjoy,” says Enzo. “It doesn’t have to be anything fancy but a place with a nice ambiance would do so you can talk more intimately.”

And girls, don’t forget to say thank you. “Be appreciative of the guy’s efforts and by that I mean, know your “thank yous.” He made an effort to take you some place nice so “order something other than a non-fat-low-carb-leafy-salad-with-dressing-on-the-side.”

Strike a balance. “Don’t be too aggressive by throwing yourself at the guy — leave a bit of mystery, play a bit coy, but strike a balance, don’t play super hard to get,” advises Domz.  

About the couple

Enzo and Dominique met at a photoshoot in 2008. Little did they know then they would eventually end up engaged 4 years later. 

Enzo is currently in investment banking as an assistant manager specializing in wealth management. Dominique on the other hand works as an account manager for a television network. She runs the fashion blog Konichiwear.

They both like going to the gym, watching movies, and spending time at the beach.

What about you? What do you keep in mind when you’re going on a first date? Let us know in the comments below! – Rappler.com