Avoiding that First Date from Hell

Whether you are on a blind date or simply on a first date, being the fashion conscious woman that you are, you most likely opted for wearing a beautiful outfit that is about a size and a half too small. Your shoes are new and so uncomfortable that they are giving your blisters. You have gone through great pains to look pretty yet refined, sexy yet not slutty, trendy but not obnoxious.

In other words, you are probably hopelessly uncomfortable. Add to this the stress of being witty, and it is not surprising that you are not looking forward to a good time, but instead you are hoping that you will just make it through the evening in one piece without popping a button or making a complete fool out of yourself. Here are three tips for women who want to avoid that first date from hell and instead enjoy themselves without being self conscious.

Do not feel that you need to play dress up. If you are normally the shorts and sandals kind of gal, have a pair of Capris and some nice looking sandals. A first date is the wrong time and place to wear those killer three inch heels that you would never ever wear otherwise. In the same vein, resist the temptation of wearing that outfit you always loved, but that has now become two sizes too small. Trying to suck in your gut and avoid breathing for an entire evening is miserable!

Ease into conversation. Keep it light and casual, and stay away from discussing religion or politics - unless you are both spiritually minded people, or discover that politics or current events are of common interest!

If you are on a double date with your best friend, do not suddenly revert to your high school behavior. Putting your heads together and snickering while the guys are looking on will make for a miserable date - for them. At the same time, do not put your date on the spot or play "20 Questions." Let the conversation flow naturally, and be a good listener.