First date tips: your 5 most frequent questions answered

Stuck on where to go, what to wear and what to say? Don't stress, we answer all your questions in our ultimate first date guide below

Q. What should I wear?

A. This depends entirely on where you're going. If in doubt, go for smart casual.

The majority of first dates are dinner dates - even if he says it's a 'surprise'. If it's dinner, dress to impress.

If it's outdoorsy/a daytime date, jeans and a blouse is safe. Avoid anything too casual like joggers and trainers - unless you're doing Go Ape or similar.

Only wear heels if you can definitely walk in them, and avoid new ones.

For men, a tie is not always necessary, opt for a smart shirt instead.

Q. What should I say?

A. Keep the conversation flowing with open questions like what do you do? What are you ambitions? Do you like to travel?

Avoid closed ones like do you like music, have you got kids and where do you live?

If you're nervous, an open question will help guide the conversation and keep it going. Closed questions will initiate short answers, in other words, awkward pauses.

Q. Where should I go?

A. Popular ideas include dinner, cinema, or a picnic. However, quirk it up a bit, and surprise your date.

Cool alternative ideas include vintage shopping, live music, cookery classes, dog walking, or simply just brunch.

Plus, if you're happy, you can extend the date through to the evening too.

If you want to keep it romantic, how about a theatre date? Get some great deals on tickets including The Lion King, from £35 here.

For dinner inspiration, how about 2 4 1 at Prezzo until 2 February?

Q. Should I take a gift?

A. It's rare for a woman to give a man a gift on a first date, but never say never.

To the guys out there, that want to treat your date, flowers and chocolates always work a treat. Marks & Spencer's premium collection are classic, classy and won't break the bank.

If you want to be different, a scented candle is a nice gesture and will give her something to remember you by.

These pretty-smelling candles from The White Company are a good place to start. The collection includes diffusers, home fragrances and gift sets, starting at around £20.

Q. I'm a man, should I pay?

A. It's true, women usually expect a man to pay on a first date. But strictly speaking, it's fine to go half half.

If you really like her, and want to go on a second date, then why not treat her to a dinner on you.

If she wants to pay her way, and insists, go half half.