Fashion Faux Pas: The Biggest Style Icks That Kill the Vibe on Dates

How important is fashion sense on a date?

According to our survey, 14% of people say that fashion sense is extremely important when it comes to dating. 40% of people said they viewed it as very important. That's more than half of people paying close attention to what you wear before you even get into the conversation. It's not just about being dressed up, it's about reading the room. Showing up too casual or looking like you tried too hard can send the wrong message.

To put that into perspective, when asked about their biggest turn-offs when meeting someone in person after connecting on a dating app, 15% of people said poor fashion sense - voted a bigger turn off than a lack of conversational skills (14%), talking about an ex (11%), not being funny (10%) and being a fussy eater (10%).

While 32% of people are willing to ignore fashion-related turn-offs on a date, 19% would avoid seeing the person again, and 40% would be willing to make a light-hearted joke about it.

Top 5 fashion icks that turn people off

So, if fashion plays such a big part in initial attractiveness, what fashion choices should you avoid if you want to bag a second date? Though our survey received a wide variety of responses, a few standout fashion faux pas kept coming up. These are the top 5 common "mistakes" that could kill the mood...

1. Mismatched colours or patterns – 30% say clashing colours or patterns were the biggest style turn-off. Mixing patterns skilfully is one thing, but when the colours clash, or the patterns overwhelm, it's a definite no-go. If you're unsure, keep it simple stick to neutral tones with one pop of colour, or use a patterned piece as the statement.


2. Poorly fitting clothes – 28% of people revealed this as a major no-no: whether it's pants that are too baggy or shirts that are too tight, ill-fitting clothes send the message that you didn't put much thought into your appearance. The right fit can instantly upgrade your look, so make sure your clothes flatter your body shape and size.


3. Clothes that are too revealing – 25% of people felt that overly revealing outfits were a big red flag, particularly on a first date. While it's great to feel sexy and confident, there's a fine line between flirty and too much, especially in the early stages. Aim for a balance that highlights your best features without crossing into uncomfortable territory.


4. Overdressing for the occasion – this put off 23%. Trying too hard can have the opposite effect of what you're aiming for. Sure, a well-made three-piece suit is bound to impress, but it might be a bit much for a casual coffee date. Understand the vibe of your date and dress accordingly. There's power in subtlety.


5. Wearing outdated fashion trends – 21% mentioned outdated or unfashionable looks as a dealbreaker. While we're not saying you need to chase every fashion trend, wearing something noticeably out of style might give off the impression that you're out of touch. Stick to timeless pieces or go for classic items with a modern twist.

What styles do people prefer on dates?

Now that we've covered what to avoid, let's talk about the styles that are more likely to work in your favour. According to our survey, smart-casual is the sweet spot for both men and women. 42% of women said they prefer a man in a smart-casual outfit. On the other hand, 15% of women appreciate a more casual look, while 11% find high fashion appealing.

Men have similar preferences, with 44% saying they're most attracted to a smart-casual look on women. Meanwhile, 7% of men like to see their dates dressed in high fashion, and 7% are drawn to a romantic style.

43% of people would end a date early over poor fashion choices

While fashion might not seem like a make-or-break factor in dating, our survey results revealed that it can be! 43% of people admitted they would consider ending a date early if their date's fashion choices turned them off. That said, 54% were more forgiving, choosing to focus on other aspects of the date instead. While it's unlikely that one fashion faux pas will ruin everything, it's worth putting in the effort to get it right. After all, your outfit is part of the first impression, and you only get one shot at that.

Dating tips: how to dress to impress

Now that you're aware of the fashion don'ts, let's take a look at some practical tips to help you look your best and make a great impression on your next date:

• Stick to what makes you feel confident: Confidence is everything. When you wear something that makes you feel good, it shows. Don't stray too far from your comfort zone an outfit you love will help you relax and enjoy the date.


• Keep it clean and simple: A well-fitted, clean outfit never goes out of style. There's no need to overthink it. Just make sure your clothes are clean, pressed, and coordinated. When in doubt, go for a classic look that won't miss the mark.


• Dress for the occasion: Tailor your outfit to the setting. A chilled lunch date calls for a laid-back casual wear ensemble, while a dinner at a high-end restaurant requires something a bit more polished. It's all about matching your look to the vibe of the date.


• Accessorise wisely: Less is more when it comes to accessories. A sleek watch, belt, or subtle piece of jewellery can add polish without going overboard. The right accessory can be the perfect finishing touch to pull your whole look together.

While fashion isn't the be-all and end-all of a relationship, nailing your look on that first date can set a positive tone for the evening and make you feel confident. Whether you're aiming for a relaxed vibe or looking to impress, Suit Direct has everything you need to ensure your outfit is spot-on. Want more advice on how to nail your date night outfits? Check out our date night style guide - and make sure that you’re ready to show up in style with our collection of men's suits.