You’ve booked the restaurant, memorised your go-to fun fact, and mentally prepared for small talk. Now comes the age-old question: what to wear on a first date? If your answer is “red, obviously – because romance,” you might want to put down the scarlet slip and hear us out.
According to personal stylist and colour theorist Donna Cameron, red isn’t always the smartest choice when it comes to first impressions. While it’s linked to power and passion, Donna says “it doesn’t suit everyone, and could send the wrong message.”
In partnership with Australian fashion label Gingham & Heels, Donna is helping decode the psychology of colour – revealing how what you wear can impact your perceived confidence, attractiveness, and whether or not you score a second date.
And with searches for “first date outfit” and “winter dinner outfit” trending on Google and Pinterest, now’s the perfect time to brush up on your colour smarts.
The Power of Colour
“Colour theory is about understanding how colours interact and affect us emotionally,” says Donna. “It looks at things like hue (whether a colour is red, yellow, blue etc.), saturation (how bright or soft it is), and value (how deep or light it is). But more than that, colour can trigger memories, change our mood, and influence how others perceive us.”
That means picking the perfect palette is more than a style statement – it’s a mood setter.
Eye Spy a Winner
Forget red. When in doubt, Donna recommends using your eye colour as your cue. “The best colour to wear on a date really depends on your individual colouring,” she explains. “But a simple tip? Wear the colour of your eyes as it always makes them pop and draws people in.”
The “Magic” Middle Ground
If you’re still stumped, reach for what Donna calls “magic colours.” These shades – teal, aqua and turquoise – work for nearly every skin tone and hair colour. “Warm blues, teals, aquas, and turquoises suit almost everyone. They’re that sweet spot between warm and cool tones, like denim, and they go with everything.”
Muted = Missed Opportunity
While black isn’t banned, Donna warns it needs to be worn with care. “Black is elegant, yes, but it can also be heavy or draining, especially as we age. To wear it well, you usually need more makeup, and you need to consider texture and silhouette.”
As for what to avoid altogether? “Muted greys and washed-out neutrals,” she says. “They often signal that someone doesn’t want to stand out, which isn’t the message you want to send on a first date.”
Orange You Glad You Didn’t Wear The Colour Purple
Donna also flags certain colours that tend to divide opinion. Namely – orange and purple. “People tend to love them or hate them; there’s not much middle ground. And that strong reaction might not work in your favour.”
Wear Your Mood (Not Just Your Colours)
Ultimately, Donna believes colour should align with how you want to feel and be seen. “If you’re going for a soft, feminine feel, light pastel tones are perfect,” she says. “Want to come across as elegant and put-together? Try deeper shades like burgundy or olive. And if you’re aiming for something more fun and high-energy, bright, bold colours can help you look more open and approachable.”
And if you take just one thing away? Let it be this: “Wear colours that make you feel good. Confidence is always the best outfit.”
