I'd be lying if I didn't say that some fashion trends are not for me or I just don't get. For example, meggings (def: man leggings), Jongs (def: jean tongs) or full facial masks which was popularized by Kanye West. Approximately one month ago, I started watching Nicole Richie's new AOL series "Candidly Nicole" where she outlined themes in her life in 10 minutes or less. Nicole brought up the issue of guy versus girl appropriate outfits. Basically girl appropriate outfits are looks that other women will deem trendy while men are left wondering what are we thinking.
Take in case the harem pants or better known as "MC Hammer pants" which has made a come back in recent fashion trends. Men don't often understand the outfit and would be better worn around other women. First impressions are everything on a first date and if you're an overly trendy girl (which is rarely a downfall) it could work against you. I went straight to two of Vancouver's trendiest women in the fashion industry for their take on girl versus guy outfits to give readers some tips on staying stylish without losing your audience.
WHO: Megan West (west coast editor of Kenton Magazine)
Q: What is an item of clothing that is on trend for you but you would consider a "girl outfit" but not guy date appropriate?
A: Jumpsuits! Specifically those with a relaxed silhouette, like with a slight drop crotch or something. I can't tell you the number of times I've been asked "why are you wearing pajamas with platforms?" by both guys I do and don't know.
Q: What do you think is the first thing a guy notices about their date?
A: I'd say probably hair, clothes and face in some sort of harmonious order. And then specifics like scent, eyes and any hidden surprises like a leather cuff, which could startle them into making a Ryan Atwood from The O.C reference. True story.
Q: What do you think about sleeping with someone on a first date?
A: Oh I don't know ... I mean that's such a personal choice. Personally I don't like strangers, but I can certainly advise on wardrobe options: Cosabella or La Perla!
WHO: Jillan Lansky (Style blogger)
Q: What is an item of clothing that is on trend for you but you would consider a "girl outfit" but not guy date appropriate?
A: Definitely anything that has volume in the "wrong" places, i.e. the hips or bottom. So this includes harem pants (which I happen to love), babydoll tops, overalls, and peplum. Men like clothing they can understand, so keeping it simple and not necessarily trendy is a good way to get their attention in the right way. All that said, the most important thing in date wear is confidence. If you can wear a trendy item with class and confidence, it will get the job done correctly.
Q: An outfit says a lot about you. What is a ready for commitment outfit and what screams desperation?
A: Of course us ladies want to look attractive on a date, but in my experience, dressing a little bit more conservatively tends to give off a commitment ready vibe. No, you don't have to wear your grandmother's pearls, but showing skin in a more unexpected way is much sexier than wearing a plunging neckline. For example, a t-shirt with a scoop neckline and a delicate necklace shows off a gorgeous collarbone, and is simple and sexy in a way that men can definitely understand. If you must show off your assets, my preference is going with the legs as they are sexier in a more subtle way thanEdcolletage. But please ensure you are wearing proper undergarments!EMy idea of a desperate outfit is showing off too many assets at once, i.e. legs, chest, midriff, etc. If you don't leave anything to the imagination, believe me, they won't be coming back for much more. So choose your best body part and show it off with class.
Q: Tell us about your most memorable good or bad first date and what did you learn from it?
A: My most memorable date... well I once had a date with a very nice guy whose car got towed while we were having dinner. He ended up knowing the bartender so we got a ride home, but needless to say, it was not the most romantic night of my life, driving home in the backseat.
Look in our gallery for Megan and Jillian's looks for a trendy yet appropriate first date look.
Amy Yew is a contributing columnist at Vancouver Courier. Tell us what you think and submit any questions you have to [email protected]. You can also tweet your thoughts on Twitter @AmyYew.
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