What To Wear To Meet The Parents: Rules For The Perfect Outfit

First impressions are EVERYTHING. Especially when you're meeting his family. One hemline too short and you'll forever be remembered as that girl. So instead of driving yourself completely insane trying to pick the perfect outfit, follow our simple guide to help figure out what to wear to meet the parents. We promise with that awesome personality and get-up like this, you’ll leave as their new favourite person.

Dressing to impress your man, easy! But dressing to impress his family? A bit more complicated.

Meeting the parents is a monumental moment in any relationship, but with this guide you won't need to waste any time stressing unnecessarily. That being said, if you want to become a part of the family (and leave without being labelled forever) you've got to make sure you dress appropriately.

We get that you don't want to completely change who you are - but you do want to be respectful. It's all about letting your personality do the talking, not your clothing.

So still wondering what to wear to meet the parents? Simply follow these tips to help ease your way into the family effortlessly.

Familiarise yourself with the occasion

A few days before the big night, ask your boyfriend a few questions about where you will be meeting his parents.

Will you be going out to a fancy restaurant? Or will you be having a home-cooked meal in the suburbs? Depending on where you may be headed, your outfit can vary. It's just common sense people.

Keep it classy

OK, so you may not be in line to become the next first lady, but dressing up is always a good call. And before you roll your eyes, dressing up doesn't necessarily mean you must wear a dress, it can simply be throwing on something sophisticated; an embellished blouse and a nice pair of pants is always a good pick.

Basically just make sure you steer clear of sweats and wrinkled t-shirts; A-line skirts, blazers, and shirtdresses are your friends here.

Cover your cleavage

Nothing is more distracting than flaunting your favourite female companions. You've already won the guy, there's no reason to look like you want to acquire his father as well. Cover up your cleavage and let the focus be on your personality.

Say goodbye to short skirts and dresses

There is a time and a place to show off your legs, and this is definitely not that time. If you choose to wear a skirt or dress, make sure your hemline is appropriate. A good rule of thumb is: if it's as long as your fingertips when you hold your arms by your side, then you're in the right region. Also avoid body-con garments unless you plan on hitting the club with the family after dinner.

Tone down the makeup

Now's the time to let your inner beauty shine. Stick to natural shades of nude and blush and don't over do it with the bronzer.

Wear practical shoes

The only thing worse than meeting the parents, is tripping over your heels and falling flat on your face right in front of them. Ditch the platforms and reach for a pair of classic pumps, courts or t-strap sandals that you can actually walk in, we promise you'll thank us for it later.

Go easy on the accessories

Less is more. Don't wear anything too bold or blingy. It is smart to stick to only 2 types of jewellery, like earrings and a bracelet or a necklace and a ring. It is also a great idea to wear a piece of jewellery that has a meaning. Nothing is a better conversation starter than talking about your grandmother's vintage locket!

Wear something you feel confident in

The most important thing to remember is, if you feel good, you look good. If he loves you, there's a good chance they will too! Wear your favourite colour or your go-to pair of shoes to feel comfortable in what you wear and allow your personality to shine through!

Extra Piece of Advice:

If you really want to make a good first impression, bring a hostess gift for your man's mother! Flowers and chocolates work just as well on her as they do for you!