First impressions are important, especially when it comes to meeting people that are important to you. It can help show a bit of your personality and relate to other people. But wearing the right outfit can also help you feel confident and ready to take on the world - a plus if you’re already a bit nervous about meeting the parents.

Figuring out what to wear to meet your significant other’s parents can be a little daunting. How do you create that perfect look? Luckily, a few easy guidelines can make a huge difference. Keep reading to learn what you need to know about choosing an outfit to meet the parents and even get a few ideas!

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General Advice

One of the biggest things to remember about your outfit is that you should feel comfortable. If you don’t, your discomfort will show through and could even ruin your whole outfit. 

Because of this, make sure your outfit is comfortable and represents you. For instance, dresses can be a nice outfit for meeting your significant other’s parents. But if you hate dresses, don’t wear one. You want to feel your best.

In addition, consider your audience when choosing an outfit and err on the conservative side if you’re in double. This will allow you and your personality to shine instead of being overpowered by your outfit. Even when it comes to accessories, choose a couple of pieces wisely that highlight you. You don’t need to be fully decked out to make a good impression. Just make sure your jewelry matches and works well with your outfit.

What to Consider

While being comfortable is important for your outfit, it’s also important to dress appropriately for the meeting. This means you’ll need to consider a few different factors.

Weather

Dressing for the weather is critical for being comfortable. But it will also make you look more put-together and proactive. Dressing in layers is always a good idea as it can help you be prepared no matter the elements. If in doubt, throw a cardigan on or bring one with you.

Venue

You’ll want to match the formality of the venue when meeting the parents. If you’re in a formal setting and dressed casually, it might look like you didn’t put any thought or effort into what you’re wearing. On the other hand, if you look too dressy in a casual setting, you’ll look like you’re trying too hard.

If you are going to a restaurant or certain other venues, such as a country club, make sure to check if there’s a dress code. A simple Google search can save a lot of embarrassment.

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Time of Day

The meeting time will also play into how formally you want to dress. Dinner at a fancy restaurant calls for something nicer. However, a casual outfit is better for something earlier, such as brunch.

 

 

What Not To Wear

 

When meeting the parents for the first time, you want to make the best impression possible. This means not only looking comfortable but also looking clean and pulled together. By putting some effort into your outfit, you’ll come across as being responsible and wanting to make a good impression.

There are a few types of clothes to avoid wearing. Revealing clothes such as crop tops and open backs are generally not recommended. Cut-outs should also be avoided. Generally, it’s best to stay a bit more conservative and safer in your outfit choices. 

In addition, stay away from sweatshirts, baggy and ill-fitting clothes, and anything dirty or worn out. You want to look clean and presentable.

You also don’t want to wear something distracting or too restrictive. If you constantly have to adjust your clothes or are distracted by them, you’ll feel a bit put off. You want to appear poised and confident.

While super-high heels may look great, they can be distracting. Avoid these and anything that doesn’t fit well, whether it’s too loose or too tight. They can also make a bad impression depending on the parents.

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Solid Outfit Ideas

Thinking of a couple of go-to outfits ahead of time can help you feel much less pressured when you actually have to get ready. One go-to outfit is a pair of well-fitted dark jeans and a classic blazer. You can dress it up with a dressy top and heels or make it more casual with a white t-shirt and loafers. A fun yet classy necklace is a great way to finish off this classic outfit that works for everyone.

Pulling together an outfit from elevated basics is a great option for both men and women. A sweater or button-down pairs well with khaki pants or dark jeans. You can top it off with a light blazer or denim jacket. A pair of classic yet fun earrings are a great way to add a bit of personality to your outfit.

Sometimes, the fabrics, textures, and fit you choose are more important than the actual pieces you choose. Dark shades and forgiving fabrics such as Ponte, cotton, or silk are easy to wear and pair easily with other pieces. One easy outfit is a silk blouse with a blazer and black pants. It’s timeless and put-together without being fussy.

Formal Events

A dressier look is more appropriate if you’re meeting the parents at an event such as a wedding or family party. Even a nice dinner at a restaurant may fall into this category.

Tailored black pants in a straight or wider leg style are a great base. You can choose a simple top and classic pumps or short bootie. A dainty necklace can be a good addition to round out your look.

Little black dresses, particularly A-lines, won’t ever let you down. Look for a dress that ends at your knee and skim or drape your figure. Finish it off with a necklace that pairs with your dress’s neckline.

Earrings work perfectly to complement the rest of your jewelry or stand on their own! Take a look at our newest earrings to find a pair for your outfit!

Casual Events

Lunch at home or a backyard party are fun ways to meet the parents. Since these tend to be more low-key, you don’t want to seem like you’re trying too hard.

A flowy maxi dress with a denim jacket is a solid choice. In these cases, you can also choose straight-leg jeans with a simple yet bright top. Show off your personality here. Even more, this is a great opportunity to pair interesting jewelry which could help spark conversation.

 

 

Make an Impression When Meeting the Parents

If it’s time to meet your significant other’s parents, you’re probably a bit nervous about making a good impression. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be hard. With these tips, you’ll be able to build the perfect outfit for meeting the parents.

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