Dating Tips From 1940

There’s some dating tips that aren’t exactly ‘timeless.’ Back in the day your mother probably would have told you not to take his class pin until he’s met your father. Today your mom would probably tell you not to text while you’re out to dinner with him. Dating etiquette changes with time, but some tips for single ladiesare consistent throughout the years.

I recently stumbled upon a dating guide for girls from the 1940s, and surprisingly enough many of the tips are still applicable to dating today. If you want a little bit of retro advice on how to act during a date, here you are:

Don’t slouch when you’re on a date.
Posture is as important to your appearance as fashion is! He’s going to see it the entire time he’s looking at you, so don’t let him see you looking unclassy by sitting like a dude.

Don’t fix your make-up.
Guys really do prefer the natural look, so if you’re fixing your makeup in front of them, you’re reminding them that you’re doing yourself up. If you’re going to wear makeup, make it classy and minimal, and do your touch ups in the bathroom.

Wear the proper underwear.
If you’re wearing a white strapless dress, a hot pink strappy bra isn’t your best option. And not wearing a bra at all is never a good choice.

Don’t act like you’re already a couple.
Men are uncomfortable in general when it comes to PDA, so jumping right into it on your first date sends red flags up for him. Keep your distance and wait for him to make a move.

Don’t be too emotional.
We understand that you need to talk about the pain that’s been left with you after your dog Parker passed away last week, but sobbing in the middle of the restaurant isn’t the best way to express your feelings. If you’re going through a sensitive time, reschedule for a time that would work better for you!

Don’t talk about clothes.
Unless you’re on a date with Tom Ford or Marc Jacobs, skip the chat about wardrobes. He shouldn’t talk about cars because it probably doesn’t interest you, so you should have the same courtesy and not talk about clothes.

Don’t get drunk.
If you have to question why you shouldn’t get drunk on a first date, maybe you shouldn’t be dating at all! Getting drunk on a date sends out all the wrong signs to a guy.

Don’t flirt with other guys.
You’re on a date. Be respectful! If you saw him eyeing up the waiter, chances are you wouldn’t stick around very long.

Some advice is only relatable for a few years (anyone here old enough to remember when people would advise that you not check your pager on a date?), but golden tips like this last more than a lifetime. Print them out! Make flash cards! Do whatever you need to do to remember the advice, because trust me lady, you’ll need it.