First impressions really do matter. I’ve been on a handful of dates where the guy seemed to have disregarded that through the way he dressed. What he wore affected the date — I couldn’t seem to get my mind off how poorly he was dressed. This is not because I’m shallow, but as a woman — we place a lot of care and attention to how men place care and attention to themselves. If a man truly cares about his appearance, this speaks volumes to us. It shows us that they can take care of themselves. Read on for my first date fashion tips for men:

1. Dress for the location the date takes place at. Taking her out to dinner at a somewhat upscale restaurant? Leave the gym shoes at home.

2. If it has Hawaiian flowers, flames, anime characters or any other loud or distracting prints — ditch it.

3. Prior to the date, make sure that you’re wearing clean clothes that are not wrinkled. Otherwise, your clothes are communicating to your date that you’re incapable of taking care of yourself.

4. Round up some of your female friends to get their opinions on your date ensemble. It’s safer to have women approve your first date outfit before going on the first date.

5. Dress for comfort — if you’re uncomfortable you’ll make your date feel uncomfortable.