An expert in color psychology shares the 6 best shades to wear to make a good first impression on a date (2024)

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Darker shades of green can help you exude confidence.

If you're hoping to show confidence on a date, green may be the way to go, according to Lewis.

"This color is wonderfully symbolic of growth, stability, and a strong sense of self-identity," she told BI. Green can also signify a stable, calming presence, which may be of benefit to you on a date.

When it comes to choosing the right shade of green, Lewis recommended going for deeper hues. If the green is too light (think: pea soup), your date may feel ill at ease.

"You want to symbolize the good side of green for a first impression," she said.

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Wearing blue might help you seem trustworthy.

Blue is often considered the world's favorite color, so it's always a safe bet to wear on a first encounter.

If that's not enough to convince you, Lewis said, blue has associations with trustworthiness. After all, it's a popular choice for many global brands, like LinkedIn and Walmart, and the color of many police uniforms.

Blue is also good for calming a stressful situation, she said. Be aware, however, that deep shades of blue can be more mentally stimulating — not necessarily first-date material.

Dark blue "can help trust build quickly, but it can also keep things too cerebral," Lewis told BI. "I'd recommend pairing it with a bit of red to give a great balance."

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Purple is considered to be the color of connection and relationships.

Lewis told BI she suggests you wear purple if you want "to signal your openness to a new relationship" or a deep one.

Purple is a positive wardrobe choice for a first date, she said, as it is considered to be the color of relationships and connection.

This color can help to facilitate a quick connection with new people, Lewis added.

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Wearing red might help you feel more attractive.

Red is always a powerful wardrobe choice and "obviously a great choice on a first date," Lewis said.

Wearing red on a first date can help to hold someone's attention and keep things highly energized, according to Lewis. Plus, some studies have suggested that, in some cases, red can make you feel — or be perceived as — more attractive.

"Whether it's red lipstick, a dress, or even shoes, a pop of red will get" your date's attention, she added.

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Incorporating magenta into your outfit can spark conversation.

Magenta is a bold color choice that can pay off on a date.

"Magenta is known to spark conversation and encourage people to take bolder action, so for a first date, this may help encourage a great outing," Lewis told BI.

If you're needing a bit of an energy boost on a first date, she said, this hue is also known to make people feel confident and courageous.

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Lighter shades of pink can give off a soft and playful impression.

If you want to make a softer, more playful impression, wear a lighter pink, Lewis said.

Lighter shades of pink indicate that you're someone who is not overly serious. Pink hues also show that you're ready for a fun time, highlighting the softer side of your personality.

"It also encourages hugging and touching," she told BI.