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5 Ways To Amp Up Your Single Sex Appeal

Posted Wed, Jul 09, 2008, 3:41 pm PDT
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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. 

Average (106 Ratings): 3 out of 5 stars

  • 1. Posted by bungalowbill08 on Fri, Jul 18, 2008, 9:45 pm PDT

    I like the "if your at a buffet" line. Who goes to parties where a buffet is served?! This would be great advice if you're desperate and over 40, which probably coincide with eachother. If you're a twenty-something like myself do NOT listen to this advice, the only thing that can be found remotely true is maintaining an open and inviting presence, other than that be yourself, be as loud or obnoxious as you want, cus there'll always be a member of the opposite sex that will relate to you no matter who you are.

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  • 2. Posted by downthebigriver on Fri, Jul 18, 2008, 9:47 pm PDT

    How about, "Be yourself!"? In the "do's and don't's" of these recommendations the most important part is always forgotten. Screw the advice be genuine!

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  • 3. Posted by Cyndi on Fri, Jul 18, 2008, 10:01 pm PDT

    I want to be me!

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  • 4. Posted by southernlyon on Fri, Jul 18, 2008, 10:03 pm PDT

    Hmm. I guess I'm not cut out to "Dress to Devastate." Not a single comfortable sounding pair of women's shoes in the lot...

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  • 5. Posted by Oliver G on Fri, Jul 18, 2008, 10:03 pm PDT

    just a bunch a nonsense from one of the many writers trying to make a buck by writing about any job they get offered - do NOT listen to this crab...

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  • 6. Posted by off2dabeach on Fri, Jul 18, 2008, 10:03 pm PDT

    Not being completely wasted sometimes helps too.

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  • 7. Posted by erica411 on Fri, Jul 18, 2008, 10:04 pm PDT

    Show cleavage.... works everytime.

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  • 8. Posted by Heba H on Fri, Jul 18, 2008, 10:16 pm PDT

    This is excellent advice that I personally can do with!

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  • 9. Posted by David S on Fri, Jul 18, 2008, 10:23 pm PDT

    Be the best dressed woman in the room, every time. Always works.

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  • 10. Posted by recessmusic on Fri, Jul 18, 2008, 10:32 pm PDT

    How about just booze them up, and take full advantage...

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  • 11. Posted by Heavenly Ra on Fri, Jul 18, 2008, 10:33 pm PDT

    Does this really freaking work? And pfffffffffffffffffft on you.

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  • 12. Posted by shahram N on Fri, Jul 18, 2008, 10:45 pm PDT

    OK grandma, can you stay away from my dating life

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  • 13. Posted by readingthiscrap on Fri, Jul 18, 2008, 10:49 pm PDT

    I hope these women still have their mothers dress them in the morning, because they don't have a clue! A sophisticated wrap dress should be worn with the pointed toe pumps ... funky wedge heels are too heavy to go with the dress. A flirty skirt and tank top should be worn with the strappy sandals ... the flats are okay, but the sandals would continue the "flirty" theme. Flared slacks and off-the-shoulder blouse should be worn with the funky wedge heels ... NEVER wear sandals with big pants. Dark bootcut jeans and feminine blouse should be worn with the flats to continue the casual look, but the pointed toe pumps would be sexy. The shoes you wear can really ruin the outfit. They should have the same "weight" and "theme" of the clothing you have on. big, heavy clothing needs heavy shoes. Lighter clothing needs lighter shoes. It's very simple. And do NOT ever wear flip-flops ... tackiness in the extreme, no matter how fancy they are.

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  • 14. Posted by jonathan.cousens on Fri, Jul 18, 2008, 10:52 pm PDT

    well I agree with most of this. I really like the keep your arms uncrossed and always keep somewhat of a smile, but you definitely gotta just be yourself. Be Yourself! :)

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  • 15. Posted by Terri O on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 12:17 am PDT

    WTF!! Somebody is living in la la land! I could say more but WHY!

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  • 16. Posted by dotcomr on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 12:48 am PDT

    wtf???? this may work in the 70's, but I wouldn't wear this to a party! funky wedge heels a flirty skirt and tank top with flats flared slacks

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  • 17. Posted by mzsuperstar on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 1:20 am PDT

    I think it was all great advice. The opening lines were a way to show you're open to talking to that person but it's not obvious as a "pick up line." The outfits were examples....obviously not going to fit everyone's taste. But the idea behind being cute w/o looking like you're trying hard is dead on. Whoever mentioned "keeping the theme" by going with strappy heel sandals would definitely be overdoing it a casual backyard bbq. That SCREAMS give me attention (which = desperate...no matter how cute/sexy you are).

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  • 18. Posted by user on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 2:54 am PDT

    I wasted 5 minutes of my life reading this garbage!

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  • 19. Posted by cyndi_bear27 on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 3:29 am PDT

    Wow, the comments left early in the morning are priceless. Well I have lots of single guy friends, and no girl friends. BBQ's around here turn into man-fests. Oh wells. Kansas blows

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  • 20. Posted by thebobcatreturns on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 3:53 am PDT

    Pointed toe shoes may be "trendy" but they make you look like a clown with deformed feet. Wear comfortable shoes, or if you're trying to show off your feet, sandals. Nothing says "unapproachable" quite like being uncomfortably dressed.

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  • 21. Posted by joshprado55 on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 3:59 am PDT

    Hmmm...I think I'll shoot myself now.

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  • 22. Posted by Standing in Line on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 4:15 am PDT

    these tips are decent... but when it comes to dressing ... i'll avoid the suggestions above. unless of course i want to look like every other guy flexing infront of the mirror. be yourself, throw the cowboy boots on with a cool tshirt and rock out!

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  • 23. Posted by raralh on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 4:16 am PDT

    Well this is funny. I must agree with the lot of them, this advice doesn't really work. I have come to realized that there is someone for everyone--that is if you really want someone. WEBSTER DICTIONARY defines the word "Disguise" as-- an outward appearance that hides what something really is. We can dress up anything to appear like something else, but in the end it is still what it was in the beginning. Real change comes from growing, not disguise Be yourself. Be open to people and pay attention to what them say and do.

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  • 24. Posted by T N on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 4:19 am PDT

    I agree with not wearing much perfume or cologne. There are certain fragrances that will send me running out of the room because they are so strong. Environmental allergies. I get an instant headache, chest tightness and start to cough - a full blown asthma attack. The ONLY thing that ever triggers it are certain odors, even some cleaning supplies. I used to wear perfume and perfumed lotions, so I understand people will wear it, but yes, lighten up a bit. Through my research trying to find a "cure" for my condition, I have found the USA does not regulate what goes into perfumes. We are putting toxic chemicals on us and that is why so many of us are having health problems. Please research this yourselves.

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  • 25. Posted by Christine R on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 5:05 am PDT

    Sounds like a bunch of BS to me. Very poor fashion advice for 2008! Just be yourself is probably the BEST advice for meeting new people. Also, learn to Listen to what other people are saying. It shows that you are sincerely interested in them!!

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  • 26. Posted by Matti on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 5:34 am PDT

    its not so much what you wear, that can be different for everyone, be tasteful and don't dress like a slut in most cases, but try and be informed, interesting, apply yourself mentally and that will impress more people than your clothes. I like to have seen recent movies, know some great books, listen to music, visit art museums, etc. Not only will you impress, you might even have fun

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  • 27. Posted by brian vant-hull on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 5:55 am PDT

    Note: guys don't even notice shoes. High heels yes, but that could be a turn on in ways you don't like (bimbo calling!) or an equal turn off (too fashion focussed to wear something sensible. next!). Save them for costume parties. Wedge pumps?? This type of detail doesn't even register on us. Wear something comfortable. Worn out sneakers are fine, and will get you a sincere date faster than heels or fancy shoes.

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  • 28. Posted by nufaith on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 6:24 am PDT

    Great Suggestions. Take then, you'll benefit!

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  • 29. Posted by Typical male on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 6:39 am PDT

    indeed armed with this new found information from yahoo i shall now endeavour to finds me a date whenever the opportunity arises at social events such as bbqs, parties etc. Establish greater eye contact ! Woah i never knew that could help, this writer has clearly got all the tricks of the dating trade up his sleeve. Never in the world would i have thought such places offer the opportunity of a date. Thank you yahoo for providing me with such great insights to a world i never new.....

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  • 30. Posted by Sloth Machine on Sat, Jul 19, 2008, 7:13 am PDT

    Genetics is all that matters. If you are born attractive, you will ALWAYS be in high demand. If you are a dog, stay in the kennel and don't waste your time, as the only interest you'll attract is losers looking to pick your pocket.

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