Hairstyles for a First Date
Be Yourself
Show the real you and don't pretend or try to present yourself in a way that you think he might like. Usually, that doesn't work in the long run. Regardless of whether your hair is long or short, spunky or conservative, find a hairstyle that best expresses who you are and keep it simple, natural, and touchable. Avoid trying too hard to impress anyone, as it can come across as desperate.
The right hairstyle for your special rendezvous definitely depends on the nature of the date. Are you heading out for dinner and a movie, to the opening of an art show, a bike tour, or a baseball game? We'll give you ideas for casual and dressed-up styles for short and long hair, and there are even hairstyles that can go with anything! But always keep in mind that less is more.
First Date Styles for Short Hair
Pixie cuts are a popular favorite among women and are often loved by many. Pixie haircuts are uncomplicated, feisty, touchable, and sexy all at once. They can also be easily dressed up or dressed down.
For a casual look, just tousle your clean hair, perhaps push the sides back with just a dab of product, and style the top hair in different directions. This gives the pixie cut much texture and makes it look dynamic. Diagonal bangs will bring more attention to your eyes. Make sure that you don't use a gel that turns very stiff or hard when it dries. Rather go for a light mousse and a spritz of spray. This type of hairstyle goes with most outfits and looks stunning in most settings. But if you want to enhance the effect, add a little sparkly hairpin on one side.
Short hair has a tendency to look sporty. If you want to soften the look, use a round brush when blow-drying to flip the ends of the hair up and out for a fun, wispy look. A few passes with a curling iron to add sexy little curls and texture around the edges are also a great touch, subtle but impactful.
First Date Styles for Long Hair
Up or down is the big question. If in doubt, keep them down. Men love beautiful, long, and free-flowing hair that makes them want to run their hands through it. The appeal of long hair cannot be underestimated. It still is a strong symbol of femininity and works on a very deep level in your partner's psyche.
For the 'pretty girl next door' look, opt for a semi updo! Take the section of hair in front of your ears and style it back, then use a barrette or clip to hold it in place. Leaving a couple of thin strands to play along your face adds a nice touch.
Another wonderful option is a ponytail, a timeless favorite that exudes charm on steamy dates. Massage some mousse into your towel-dried hair and tousle it with your fingers while it dries to create interesting texture. Then gather all your hair in the back, but avoid pulling too tightly. The look should be playful, not strict.
When it comes to updos, keep it simple. They can be dressy, feminine, and romantic, but they can also be easily overdone. Less is more, and the best upstyles for a first date are casual, tousled looks with an effortless appearance. Avoid overly elaborate styles, as they may give the impression that you're trying too hard. A fuzzy bun with loose strands on the side is absolutely enticing!
Curly Hair
Flaunt your curly hair in its natural beauty! Use a smoothing product and perhaps a special curl-enhancing gel to bring out its best. Avoid brushing or combing out the curls, as they may turn into a big mass of frizz.
Hairbands are trendy once again and they are a quick and stylish way to spruce up your hair. They keep long hair out of your face and also add a fun splash of color to short looks.
If you want to add a little elegant sparkle to your hairstyle, try a small hairpin or barrette with rhinestones, but keep it small and only one is enough. You don't want to look "overdone" but a little bling in the right place can be very pretty.
Stay away from hairpieces, like clip-on ponytails or brightly colored clip-in strands. Faking the length of your hair can have the same effect as wearing colored contact lenses. He'll likely figure out soon enough that it's not real, and that might not be what you're aiming for.
Last Minute Fixes
Imagine you have a date with very short notice and not enough time to get ready and wash your hair. Don't despair. There are some quick ways to freshen up your look. If you have long hair, brush it over your head and spray on a light mist of hairspray throughout. Flip it back up, shake it, and you have a bouncy, voluminous mane that looks as if it just had a blowout. Use a curling iron for small effects and to tame unruly hair.
To quickly style short hair, spray on a thin mist of water, tousle the hair with some mousse, and either style it with your fingers or comb it for a sleeker or retro look.
With your hair in a flattering style, all you need is an outfit that makes you feel attractive yet comfortable. Add a touch of makeup (stick with natural, earthy tones and focus on the eyes), and you're ready for romance. Here's a little tip: Add a bit of your favorite perfume to your hair. Simply spray a bit on your wrists, rub them together, and then lightly run them through your hair. Subtlety is key.
Enjoy, and may your first date be the start of something wonderful
See also: What your hairstyle and clothing says about your personality