Anatomy Of A Perfect First Date

No matter how many first date do and don't lists singletons read, some dating mavericks still end up getting sloshed, excoriating an ex or wearing an outfit that says "bed me" instead of "wed me."

Glamour asked top relationship writers—our very own Tomfoolery blogger extraordinare included—to compile a list of 25 hard and fast tips for having a successful first date. Like anything that runs the fun-to-potentially-disastrous spectrum, the name of the dating game seems to be moderation.

When choosing a location, for example, Tom suggests the unexpected (rececssion-friendly PBR and Rock Band at home anyone?) as an interesting alternative to dinner and a movie. If you do go out, Single-ish blogger Ryan Dodge warns against a spot with too much "eye candy." If your date's going to be staring at anyone's cleavage all night, you'd rather it were your own, right?

Which brings us to the next topic: what to wear and what not to wear for the first impression. Heels? Only if you're a pro at strolling in them. Sexy undergarments? Check. Clothing that could be mistaken for sexy undergarments? Maybe not. Likewise, do your Google research (I mean, you were going to anyway, right?) but leave some virtual stones unturned. It's easier to be interested in his recent African safari if you haven't already looked through all 465 pictures of it on Facebook.

Most importantly, be yourself. Well, be your most positive, relatively sober and non-neurotic self. Glamour's list suggests saving your penchant for psychoanalysis, Debbie-Downer-tendencies and sailor-worthy swearing for a later date and time... like your wedding night!