What to do when… you’re on your first date?

TIP #1: DRESS LIKE YOURSELF
This is not the time for a total fashion makeover! Your crush is going out with you for a reason: he already likes the way you look. Stick to your usual style and wear something you feel confident in - that means nothing low-cut or super-short! We don't want to give the wrong impression now, do we?

TIP #2: DRESS FOR THE DATE ACTIVITY
Keep in mind what you'll be doing on the date and dress appropriately. For example, if you're going to be walking a lot, wear shoes that won't have you crying in pain after a few hours. If you're going to the beach, don't overdo the makeup because it will look terrible when it melts off later. You get the idea.

TIP #3: DON'T MAKE IT COMPLICATED
Keep the date simple. Pick a basic first-date activity like seeing a movie (bonus: no pressure to talk for 2 hours!), going to a show, going dancing, going to a carnival or theme park or the zoo, having coffee at a hip cafe or getting ice cream and walking in the park.

TIP #4: ASK QUESTIONS
If your guy is like most people, he secretly thinks he is the world's most interesting subject. But the most interesting conversationalists are people who ask about others, so impress him with your question-asking and listening skills. He'll feel great that you're so interested in him, and you'll get to know him that much better.

TIP #5: KEEP THE CONVERSATION LIGHT
First dates are about having fun and making a good impression. They are not the time for talking about how badly old boyfriends treated you, intense family problems, or other stuff you only talk about with your best friend. This is a first date, not a therapy session!

TIP #6: DON'T PUT ON AN ACT
You'll be sorry later if you put on a big act to impress your date. It's much easier - and better for both of you - if you just try to relax and be yourself. You are impressive and nice enough in your real self. If he doesn't think so, he's a loser!

TIP #7: SHOW INTEREST
This is simple - it's just about having the basic manner to pay attention when your date is talking to you. It's amazing how many girls (and boys) are in the habit of looking over someone's shoulder to see who else is around or what's going on. It's rude and he could get annoyed, so don't.

TIP #8: WATCH OUT FOR MESSY MUNCHIES
There are certain foods that are famous for being disastrous on first dates, because they are so messy and contain so much potential for embarrassment. It's hard not to make a mess of yourself when eating pizza, spaghetti and anything overly sloppy or dripping with cheese. Ditto for noodle soup. Keep that in mind if you and your date grab a bite.

TIP #9: BRING MINTS
Bring breath mints in your purse. It will make you feel confident knowing that they're there, and you can pop one if you think your breath isn't fresh. They're especially handy for being ready for that goodnight kiss, if it happens! (Brush your teeth and use mouthwash before you go out too).

TIP #10: HAVE FUN
Read these tips over before your date and get comfortable with them. Then go out on your date and have a great time! First dates can make us so nervous that we forget to have fun. Try to relax as much as possible and enjoy whatever you're doing. The bonus: if you genuinely enjoy yourself, you'll seem like a fun person, and guys love that. :)