Latest news with #firstdates
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Single women ditch wearing makeup on first dates — and experts encourage it
These ladies are going au natural at their amorous appointments — and loving it. In general, Gen Z has trended towards skipping out on classic date nights like traditional dinners and drinks in favor of more adventurous, active ventures like ocean swims, yoga sessions, or rock climbing. These activities allow potential paramours to get to know each other without the pressure of sitting across from each other and talking for hours on end — though eventually, there comes a point in a relationship where this is necessary. The latest move to ease the tension and anxiety of a first date? No makeup, a la Pamela Anderson. Both Millennials and Gen Zers have taken to the Internet to share their experiences with the movement, and overall, they're psyched about their new looks, and the confidence boosts it can — potentially, as @madisonoud pointed out — bring with it. Aside from saving plenty of time getting ready, skipping out on glam can also be helpful for those struggling with perfection compulsions and people-pleasing. Experts say that arriving at a first date fresh-faced can help screen potential suitors who simply aren't a match. 'If someone you date loses interest simply because you weren't wearing makeup, that's useful information,' said Janine O'Brien, a licensed clinical psychologist and relationship therapist, in an interview with Bustle. Women online agree — why waste your time getting ready for someone you barely know, especially when there's a fair chance they didn't do the same? 'Don't see the issue. Men don't do their makeup,' said one comment under @madisonoud's video. 'To your date, [going makeup-free] may communicate confidence, self-acceptance, and authenticity. And that can set the tone for a relationship where you're not afraid to show up as your full self,' O'Brien said. Some women are also adopting strategies like wearing more makeup as they go on more dates with the same person — both to show their interest in the other person and to demonstrate that effort goes both ways. Gen Z daters are not only ditching makeup — they're apparently also leaving dating apps in the past and turning towards old-fashioned matchmaking services. 'Matchmaking in this country has never been more popular,' Adam Cohen-Aslatei, director of Tawkify matchmaking service, told The Post. 'It's really grown pretty tremendously.' 'Business has never been stronger for Cohen-Aslatei and the company saw its busiest month last year.
Telegraph
30-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Telegraph
18 iconic first date ideas to inspire romance
If you've started your dating journey or have someone in mind that you'd love to ask out, you're probably thinking about that initial first date and how to get it right. While a meal or drinks is often a first thought, Rachel Rose, a relationship and boundaries coach and author of Date Your Worth, Not Your Wound says that doing something a little different can be better for easing tension. 'Active or outdoor dates take the pressure off just sitting across from someone, staring at them the entire time. You get to focus on having a good time first and foremost,' Rachel explains. 'If you're doing something that requires your full attention, you don't have the space to overthink, overanalyse or potentially self-sabotage the connection before it's even had a chance to naturally develop. Plus, you get a glimpse into how the other person behaves in real-life scenarios such as how they handle stress if it's competitive, how they interact with others, and how present they are'. This kind of insight, she says, is way more valuable than simply sharing a favourite cuisine. With Rachel and Angela's expert advice in mind, here are 18 iconic date ideas that will help to make your initial meeting natural and relaxed. Active first dates 'Active first dates are a brilliant way to ease any awkwardness that can come with sitting face-to-face in a restaurant or café talking with someone you may not know very well or may not even have met before,' says Angela. 'Movement naturally reduces nervous tension and provides helpful distractions – things to notice and talk about, breaks from direct eye contact – allowing conversation to flow more easily. It can also help people drop their social masks a little and show up more authentically'. Doing something together also creates a memorable shared experience, which fosters connection and gives you something to reflect on later. 1. Play tennis or mini-golf If you're both keen tennis fans, why not grab your rackets and meet at a local court? Not only will this allow you to bond over a shared interest, but it also takes much of the pressure off making continuous conversation. If tennis isn't your thing, a game of mini golf is less challenging. 2. Ride bikes If you live near a reservoir or park, a relaxed bike ride can be a great idea for a first date. Suggest meeting for a coffee first so that you make time to talk, or pack a picnic so you can sit down and chat mid-way through the date. Just make sure you agree how far you will ride so that neither party feels uncomfortable. 3. Go dancing Whether you're a salsa, ballroom or swing fan, a dance class can be a fun and romantic first date. You will get a chance to be up close and personal but with the distraction of other people being there and a teacher leading the way. 'Anything that creates space for a little intimacy like holding hands or sharing a cosy moment is ideal,' says Rachel. 4. Take a walk 'A walk in the park can feel effortless and cosy without being overwhelming,' advises Rachel. 'You're also more likely to be able to talk about more personal topics like how they grew up, or why their last relationship ended in a scenario that breeds calm and familiarity'. 5. Go kayaking or canoeing If your initial conversations have been based on a shared love of outdoor activities, why not start as you mean to go on and suggest a canoeing or kayaking date? However, both parties should be keen on such an activity, as this could really put off someone who isn't interested in outdoor pursuits. It may also show that you haven't considered their needs or abilities. Indoor first dates If the weather isn't playing ball or you prefer the predictability of an indoor date, there are lots of things you can suggest that aren't the usual coffee or drinks. 'Instead, think about dates that can also provide built-in conversation starters like doing something cultural or creative,' suggests Angela. 'It's easier to settle into an easy conversation when there are things to observe or do together, and for some – for example, the more introverted or neurodiverse – this can take the pressure off needing to perform socially'. 6. Take a pottery-making class A new activity can be fun and also creates the perfect scenario for bonding over a shared experience. An activity such as a pottery-making class will also create lots of laughter and natural discussion while showing you how your date interacts with others and manages a new situation. 7. Watch a film When the weather is chilly or the heavens have opened, a cinema date can be cosy and romantic. If you're not into Hollywood blockbusters, suggest an independent cinema that's showing alternative film options. Don't forget to suggest grabbing dinner or a drink afterwards to ensure you have time to talk. 8. Visit a museum If the idea of a walking date appeals to you but the weather forecast is gloomy, visiting a museum or gallery has similar benefits. Walking side by side feels more relaxed and natural, plus the objects around you will inspire organic conversation. 9. See a play Culture vultures are sure to love seeing a play together, especially if you're looking for date ideas in London. Head to Telegraph Media Group's ticket shop to snap up a pair of tickets and enjoy a night of great theatre together. 10. Find a cute cafe or bar If an indoor date is going particularly well, you can turn it into a lunch or coffee date. This will give you more time to talk and the opportunity to get to know one another after an initial ice breaker. Outdoor first dates 'Outdoor dates allow for a natural sense of intimacy and spontaneity,' says Angela. 'Romance doesn't need to be elaborate – it's about presence, intention, making an effort, and creating space for connection'. 11. Have a picnic in the park A relaxed picnic date is a lovely way to spend time with a potential romantic interest. While it doesn't need to be extravagant, you can make your date feel special with the addition of thoughtful food items, a bottle of bubbly, or their favourite cake. Don't forget small details such as napkins, a blanket and cutlery. 12. Attend a farmers' market A local farmers' market is a great place to start a first date. Not only will there be lots of delicious food to sample, but the bustling atmosphere will help to keep the conversation natural and flowing. 13. Visit a vineyard for wine tasting What could be more romantic than a first date set in the stunning surroundings of a vineyard? While this is definitely a more extravagant first date idea, it's a good idea for someone that shares your love of food and wine. 14. Go stargazing Starry skies have inspired romance since time began. You can find the best stargazing spots closest to you through websites such as Go Stargazing, or book in a spot at an observatory. 15. Watch a sport If you originally found your date through a shared love of sports, going to watch an event or match could be the perfect way to get to know each other. The buzz in the air should hopefully help sparks to fly between the two of you. Low-key first dates If you have financial constraints or you don't fancy making a grand gesture before you get to know someone, a low-key date can be a wise choice. 16. Cook dinner together If you're a confident chef and you're comfortable hosting a date in your home, consider cooking for them. Try to avoid making this feel formal, and make it collaborative where possible. This isn't the time to try that complicated new recipe. Make something tried and tested so that you don't bring added stress to an already nerve-wracking first date. 17. Play a board game Whether you incorporate it into a picnic, trip to the pub or cosy coffee date, a board game is a fun activity to do together. Not only will this help to break the ice and avoid any awkward silences, it will also tap into your playful sides. 18. Get ice cream There's a reason that couples in romantic comedies always seem to get ice cream on a date: it's incredibly romantic. Maybe it's because you can't rush eating an ice cream or that it's usually enjoyed while walking slowly, but it's a lovely thing to suggest after another activity such as a film, theatre trip or gallery visit.
Daily Mail
21-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE The different colors men and women MUST wear for first date success... plus a huge red flag no one ever dares talk about: by expert matchmaker
Trust me - there's one color above all you should wear on your first dates. I've been teaching this tried-and-true theory since 2012.
