What To Wear To Meet His Parents For The First Time

This means that the relationship has become more serious, and you want to make sure that you make a good first impression. It’s important to wear something that shows the parents that you respect their presence and are worth their son’s time. 

It’s fun to wear the latest trends or give the outfit some personality, but when meeting his parents for the first time, you want to make sure you’re coming off as respectful and thoughtful. If you show up in a graphic tee, a dress with big cut-outs, or ultra-distressed jeans, then they might feel like you didn’t care much about meeting them, and that this was just another day for you. If this man is a potential future husband, you want his parents to know that you value their impression of you, so try to dress accordingly. Here are some tips and ideas of what to wear so you get his parents’ stamp of approval. 

A Casual Meet-Up

Let’s start with a casual meet-up scenario. Maybe you’re meeting for brunch or at a casual family function. You don’t want to come on too strong or too dressed up, so try wearing something that says you care but you aren’t trying too hard. 

Maddy Herrin does this perfectly with a simple but stylish outfit, a classic top paired with tasteful shorts and white sandals. Coincidentally, she’s holding a bouquet of flowers. This would be a great hostess gift to bring when you meet them – it shows you’re thoughtful and leaves a great impression.

Here are some other casual options depending on the weather situation or type of event you’re attending. 

Evening Dinner Attire

Sometimes meeting the parents feels a little more serious. If you’re meeting over a nice dinner in the evening, you might want to dress up a little more. Some families keep things casual for dinner, but if this is a special occasion (even if the special occasion is just formally meeting each other), it's important to wear something nice. Try a maxi dress or a nice blouse and skirt. Or if you aren’t a dress kind of girl, try some trousers with a nice blouse. There are plenty of options, like darker colors, a blazer, or silk, that can make the outfit a bit more formal. 

Still Feeling Lost?

It’s okay to feel a little nervous beforehand. You’re meeting the people who raised the man of your dreams. You want them to like you because their son is important to you, and you want to start your relationship with them off on the right foot. If putting together an outfit is feeling difficult, use these tips from master stylist, Tan France:

• Keep it classic. Is it something you could’ve worn years ago, and for several years to come? There are some pieces that remain timeless, and those are safe to be in your wardrobe. 

• Put thought into your hairstyle. Your hair can be helpful for your outfit or it can be hurtful. Not everyone is a hair wizard, so do your best with the skills you have and try to do something with your hair that works well with the outfit. (i.e. A low, classic bun works well with evening attire, loose curls with a flowy dress, and flat iron for a sleek, neutral-toned outfit.)

• Use texture to spruce up your outfit. "Go for options that you haven't worn before, but are very similar to the silhouettes you already own," Tan says. The outfit can create an entirely different look with a new texture, and make the outfit chicer.

• Dress for your proportions. Knowing what your body type is can be important so that you’re dressing in clothes that compliment you. 

Closing Thoughts: Be Yourself, and Don’t Overthink It

This is an important milestone in the relationship, but don’t let it scare you. Your boyfriend thought you were so great that he wanted you to meet his family. And if he isn’t worried about it, you shouldn't be either. Just be who you are and dress for success. Try to wear something that fits the occasion and shows you care. Make sure you’re classy, but still yourself. There are so many options to pick from, but start with what is already in your closet, and have your boyfriend help you decide what would give his parents a great first impression. 

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