Let’s face it: Some old-fashioned dating advice required to go the clear way of the dodo bird. For example, a 1955 issue of excellent Housekeeping stressed that women on a date should be seen (and not heard). “Notify him talk first,” the article stated. “Remember, his topics of conversation tend to be more important than yours.” Meanwhile, the 1958 issue of McCall’s encouraged girls to lie regarding their families if their parents were fat. Yes, that is correct. The content told girls to state they took after their thinner parent or, if both mom and dad were overweight, to state these were adopted. Thankfully, the singles dating world has evolved a great deal since that time. Still, does which means that that everything about old-fashioned dating was bad? Absolutely not!
Before modern online dating was around, people used to take dating – well… pretty seriously. That isn't to say they didn’t have some fun. People got dressed up for dates. They provided dinner reservations at fancy restaurants. They went dancing. During the “old days,” a date was treated like a proper event instead of a casual outing. The man would be the one to express interest first, perhaps asking permission from the girl’s parents. He would get the lady at her home and offer her with flowers or a small gift. Then they’d visit dinner or see a movie (or both), often having a chaperone or perhaps a number of friends.
Yes, times have changed, but they are there still some jewels of wisdom we are able to glean from old-fashioned dating? Absolutely! Here are some old-fashioned dating tips which are still just as relevant within our modern singles dating world.
Calling to Ask Someone Out
Of course, you could think about sending a text or an inquiry with an online dating site like a Promenad , but we’re referring to actually opening the “Phone” app, dialing several, and making an old-fashioned telephone call.
We know, we know – Millennials and Gen Z possess a reputation for being “allergic” to phone calls. But think of how much more meaningful it will be towards the person you call! They’ll huged that you simply thought highly enough of them to can even make a phone call and talk instead of text.
Dressing Up for that Occasion
There’s no problem with a lazy Friday night on the couch watching Netflix with your date. Sometimes that’s all either of you are in the atmosphere for, but in older days, people accustomed to dress to impress on their own date nights. Guys donned jackets and ties while ladies wore their best dresses and jewelry.
You don’t have to do it any time you venture out, but why not swap those t-shirts and jeans for something just a little classier? You’ll both feel more excited to “hit the town,” and your date night will feel extra special as a result.
Planning the Date
Speaking of date nights, when’s the last time you put any serious planning into a night out? Old-fashioned dating often involved reservations in a fancy restaurant, tickets to determine a show, or socializing at a dance hall. True, we may not have access to many old-fashioned dance halls around anymore. You may be just as pleased with Chipotle when you are with gourmet cuisine. And you as well as your date might enjoy spontaneity. Still, that’s not to say you can’t occasionally kick things up a notch by planning a more formal date night. Be proactive. Arrange to get your date instead of meeting at the restaurant. Bring flowers or surprise one another with a little gift. You'll find some useful tips on lovedignity.
The idea is to create a first date that’s more than just hanging out – allow it to be an experience!
Holding Doors Open
Some might view opening doors as “benevolent sexism,” since a woman is completely able to opening a door herself. But instead of viewing the concept as an old school dating tip, isn’t it time for you to view it for what it's: a fundamental common courtesy?
The debate about chivalry vs sexism is constantly on the rage, and everyone is entitled to their opinion. However that very few people out there will be offended if one makes a polite gesture. (And when they're, do you really wish to date them?)
Let’s make opening the doorway for somebody less about gender and more in regards to a respectful act between two mature adults. The same holds true for offering your coat in case your partner is cold or holding their hand as you cross an icy sidewalk. These little acts of courtesy belong in the current singles dating world too.
Giving Your Date Your Undivided Attention
Can you name the #1 turnoff for 90% of women and 75% who are on to start dating ?? You guessed it – when their date won’t stop checking their phone. In a way, the old school dating generation had it easier. Life was easier there were fewer distractions.
Still, simply because we've instant communication at our fingertips doesn’t mean we have to be plugged in 24/7. Provide your date the respect they deserve by setting your phone aside and paying attention to the real live human at the front of you.
The Best of Both Dating Styles
It’s true that lots of old-fashioned dating tips were according to outdated ideas about traditional gender roles. Still, that doesn’t mean our current generation can’t learn a thing or two from old-fashioned dating advice. After all, who wouldn’t appreciate someone holding the doorway open for them or getting decked out for a “classy” date?
As you navigate the field of modern dating, keep some of these old school dating tips in your mind too. Your date will certainly be impressed by your good manners and thoughtfulness!