First impressions are everything in online dating: if you don't make a first impression, you don't get a first date.
Your dating profile is like your resume and cover letter when applying for a job, and in the superficial world of online dating, your photos are nearly everything. So, to get as many matches as possible, you need to make your pics count.
1. What is Style?
Style is a quick way to express who your identity. It gives people quick visual shorthand to how you act, how you feel, what you're like to be around, what your interests are, and so on. Your style functions as a much more credible bio for your than your actual written bio does on a dating app; how you dress is one of the best ways to sell yourself, online or off.
Style is never about wearing a costume or trying to be something you're not (or at least it shouldn't be). It's about wearing your inner self out on the outside, speaking a language using the components of clothing and accessories that have connotations. Some components like a cardigan signal gentleness and thoughtfulness, while other components like tattoos can signal edginess and adventure.
Consider your style picture as your first "hello." People will project assumptions onto you based on your appearance and your style can even work as a conversation piece that gets people to come up to talk to you. Use this to your advantage.
2. Get Inspired
Your style should match your personality: you should feel like like you're embodying the look rather than putting on an act. This is important, because people will notice the confidence or lack thererof.
But don't get me wrong: you should absolutely experiment with new ways to convey your inner world to the outer world. Too many people coast along in life without giving any thought to how they dress or how they can do better in that regard. Or they picked a outfits that they pull off well and then they rested on their laurels.
If that sounds like you, consider getting new style inspriations. Online communities like Pinterest and 4chan's "/fa/ - Fashion" board are both good examples of places to get inspiration, since they have a very diverse range of looks for you to draw from. Mix, match, and experiment with styles that you can pull off and feel confident in.
You should have a few styles taht are appropriate for differrent settings, locations, and occasions. Are you heading to a fancy restaurant or grabbing coffee at a local café? Your attire should align with the setting. Just remember, it's not about dressing to fit a mold; it's about putting the best facets of yourself on display.
3. The Basics: Key Wardrobe Essentials
To make your wardrobe work for you, start with the basics. These are the foundational pieces that every wardrobe should have. Think of items like a crisp white shirt, well-fitted jeans, and a few versatile jacket. For men, a few different colors and cuts of blazers can go a long way. These essentials can be mixed and matched, creating different looks that suit various occasions.
Consider what trends are "in" in the 2020s. Avoid skinny-fit-all-over styles that died with the 2020s. You can still wear some slim fit items, but it's good to mix those with looser items: so if you're wearing skinny pants, have a nice drapey jacket or shirt.
Consider investing in a good pair of shoes. Shoes are often overlooked but can make or break an outfit. A sleek pair of dress shoes or stylish sneakers can elevate your look and add an extra layer of sophistication or casual charm. What kind of shoes are versatile for your preffered looks?
4. Color Confidence: Choosing the Right Shades
The colors you wear say a lot about you. Bright colors convey energy and enthusiasm, while darker shades suggest a more reserved and serious demeanor. Finding the right colors for your profile pics and your dates can make a big difference in how you're perceived by those you're trying to attract.
Experiment with colors; colors that work for one person may not work for another. Maybe a rich blue brings out your eyes or a vibrant red complements your skin tone. When in doubt, neutral colors like black, gray, or beige are always safe choices.
Also consider the princple of "color economy": minimizing the numbers of different colors used. Sticking to one or two vibrant colors is usually the smart choice. This creates a more elegant and unified aesthetic, whereas using every color on the palette can look clashing, clownish, and chaotic.
5. The Details Matter: Accessories
Accessories are like the icing on the cake. They add personality and flair to your outfit, making you stand out from the crowd. Whether it's a watch, a pair of stylish sunglasses, or a statement necklace, the right accessory can enhance your overall look and give it a distinctive edge.
Jewelry is increasingly an acceptible masculine touch. A simple, loose gold chain can say a lot about you, as can a few rings on your fingers.
But don't overdo it. One or two well-chosen accessories are enough to make an impact without overwhelming your outfit. Think of accessories as a way to express your unique style subtly.
6. Style Evolution: Adapting to Change
If there's one constant in fashion, it's that it's always changing. What was a slam dunk for you a few years ago might be have lost its luster today. It's essential to adapt and evolve your style to reflect your current self, rather than clinging to past trends or comfort zones.
Stay open to trying new things. Experiment with different styles, cuts, and trends. This not only keeps your wardrobe fresh but also shows that you're adaptable and open to change—qualities that are attractive both on and offline.
Like mentioned before, staying on the pulse of image-based online fashion communities is a good way to stay on the cutting edge.
7. Personal Branding: Your Unique Style
What do you want people to think and say about you before you even meet them? What assumptions do you want them to make about you? Your answers to these qeustions
Developing a unique style doesn't mean you have to be flamboyant (though that's not bad at all). It's about being unashasmed of expressing your true self. When your style aligns with your personality, it creates a cohesive mystique that draws others in.
Dressing well is as much about feeling good as it is about looking good. When you wear something that makes you feel confident, it shows. Confidence is an aphrodisiac, and your choice of attire plays a huge role in magnifying it.
Imagine stepping into a room wearing your favorite outfit, the one that makes you feel like you can conquer the world. That feeling is palpable, and it translates into how you interact with others. Dressing for success is as much about mindset as it is about fashion
8. The Impact of Seasonality
The cycle of seasons forces you to change how you dress. Turn this into an advantage by using it as an excuse to diversify your range of style.
Winter and fall mean more layers. Summer and spring mean light and airy clothing. The progression of seasons gives you an opportunity to look forward.
If you live somewhere where it's always warm, you're never going to be as fashionable as those who live in places with four seasons. Sorry!
9. Conclusion:
At the end of the day, dressing to impress is about more than just appearances. It's about feeling good in your own skin and presenting your best self to the world. Your clothing choices should reflect your personality, boost your confidence, and align with the impression you want to make.
Dressing well is a powerful tool in your arsenal when you go on the adventure of online dating. A picture is worth a thousand words; let your self-expression be a powerful advocate to anyone who comes across your profile.