If you're single and looking for someone special, start by RSVP'ing yes to any and all social invitations. The further they are outside your usual circle of buddies, the better. Any gathering -- weddings and co-ed showers to dinner parties, barbecues, or even after-work drinks -- can be a great place to land a date. Here are a few tips to help raise your romantic potential when you hit the party circuit.
Body Language Unspoken cues are crucial. Check yourself every so often to make sure you're not sending out a "don't come near me" vibe. You want to communicate that you're friendly and open to conversation. It may sound silly, but these details make all the difference:
- Keep your arms uncrossed
- Maintain a relaxed, casual stance.
- Try keeping a subtle smile on your lips
- Make eye contact. Lots of it. Being so inviting to someone you don't know can feel strange, but it's the only way to find out if you want to know them.
Opening Lines Now comes the tricky part, how to introduce yourself. Simple conversation starters that don't feel cheesy (or too obvious) include:
- How do you know so-and-so (the host)?
- Or at a buffet, "Have you tried the pasta? How is it?"
Don't make the mistake of being loud to attract attention (even a loud laugh can be downright annoying). Part of the trick is to be a bit restrained, yet alluring.
Escape Plan It's easier to start up a conversation when you know you have the power to end it at any time. Simple ways to politely walk away from someone you aren't vibing with include:
- "Forgive me, it's been nice to talk with you but a friend of mine, who I haven't seen in ages, just walked in..."
- "If you'll excuse me, I have to run to the restroom..."
- Grab your cell phone and say, "I'm sorry, I'm getting a call..." (Your phone could be on silent or vibrate, they'll never know.)
Kindness is good karma. You never know when that cute guy or girl you've been eyeing may be watching your interaction; you don't want to come off as uncaring.
Dress To Devastate Seems obvious, but no matter how casual the event, slip on something that makes you feel your best. (You never know who you'll run into at the appetizer table.) And always opt for something that's sexy but not trying to hard.
For girls, that could mean:
- a sophisticated wrap dress and funky wedge heels
- a flirty skirt and tank top with flats
- flared slacks and an off-the-shoulder top with strappy sandals
- dark bootcut jeans with a feminine blouse and pointed toe pumps
Guys:
- Try a sharp looking button-down (in linen or a crisp cotton) and dark flat-front slacks with classic-but-cool leather shoes.
- For a more laid-back gathering, jeans and a long sleeve tee, with black or brown suede sneakers.
Scentiments Finally, if you wear fragrance, keep it very light so you don't overpower the room. You wouldn't want to meet someone you really like, spark a good conversation, and then spark up their allergies, too.
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