What to wear on a first date (advice for big guy)

Having already done an advice piece for curvy girls on what to wear on a first date, it feels unfair not to do a male equivalent. Guys are just as nervous as girls when it comes to that first date, as for you it’s the first step to potential commitment – however long off you try to make that seem.

A first date is a nerve-racking experience, even for the most confident of men. Bigger guys are likely to more anxious, particularly if they have hang-ups with their body. This will make both you and your date uncomfortable and nervous, increasing tension, so it’s important to try and relax as much as you can. After all, if she’s already on this date, you’re half way there!

A nice touch for the first date, whether you met on the internet or already know the person, is to arrive early, and depending on your plans, have some flowers in hand. This will immediately show that you are thoughtful and kind, two qualities that many women asked will say have passed by the male population. Don’t go too overboard though – you don’t want to seem like a stalker!

Now on to the important question; what to wear?

To answer this question, I’m going to suggest styles and clothing for the three locations I described in the same advice piece for curvy girls; dinner dates, lunch dates and outings/picnics. This will hopefully give you at least a starting block to choosing the right outfits for the right occasions.

For dinner dates:

Take it as a given that if the location is a formal restaurant, your date will have made the effort to look the part. This means that you must do the same. Generally, bigger men can get away with wearing a good suit and a nice shirt. Dark, charcoal greys work well for dinner and there are loads of shops online that do bigger mens’ suits. BonPrix (site: bonprix.co.uk), for example, does some really smart suits for practically nothing.

Choosing suits from companies that specialize in plus-sizes is better than your average high-street store as they will have specific design Here is not the right time to show your ‘wacky’ side, so stick to safe colours and ties.

An absolute must is the right shoes. The worst thing a guy can do is look really smart and then choose the wrong shoes. For bigger guys, size and width will be a problem. However, there are plenty of online stores that cater for the bigger guy and so make sure you choose a good pair of leather shoes to complete your sharp look.

Rochester Big and Tall (site: rochesterclothing.eu) is great for shoes as it has good quality leather and sizes up to 14.5 (UK). There is also the option of choosing the width of your shoe, giving that added comfort.

For a more relaxed restaurant, you still want to look smart. Opt for a pair of nice trousers and an open shirt, which will give a relaxed feel but still look good.

For lunch dates:

If your first date is going to be a lunch date, you want to opt for something smart-casual. In line with this season’s trend, the preppy look has aspects for everyone. The idea is skinny ties, check shirts, patterned sweaters and college-boy sweaters. This will show a more creative side than if you were going to wear your average suit.

Burton (site: burton.co.uk) do some great pieces, even giving advice on how to create the preppy look from home.

The cardigan shown is from Burtons, and happens to be one of my favourites. The block colour stripe detailing and arm logo really create the look you want to achieve.

For outings/picnics:

Even though Autumn is coming to a close, there’s still time to take advantage of a couple more weeks outdoors. Head to a park or forest for an intimate date, making sure you check the weather beforehand though!

For this sort of date, all you need to think about is layering and colours. You’re creating a very casual look, so think jumpers, cardigans, cargos/jeans and scarves.

Choose fun and colourful t-shirts, and don’t be afraid to show your personality. Bomber jackets or dufflecoats (depending on how cold it is) are great ways to make sure that you will stay warm.

Like I said in the girls’ advice piece, it would be really great to hear first date experiences from a guy’s perspective, so please share in the comments section.