First impressions are more important than ever now that research has proven that it only takes a few minutes to predict whether a relationship is in the cards with those we meet for the first time.
There's good news for all of us hopeless romantics, romance-novel addicts and chick flick junkies. It turns out there's scientific merit to that whole "Love at First Sight" thing.
In fact, a recent study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships showed that the first few minutes of meeting someone has a huge influence on the course the relationship will ultimately take. (Which explains why you know before the drinks come that your "just perfect for you" blind date is a no-go, or that hunky online hottie has definite possibilities.)
Below are three tips to help you rev up your "first site" vibe, and add a little vaa-vaa voom to that crucial first three minutes:
Wear red. Or blue.
For women who want to create an on-the-spot thrill, wearing red is the way to go. According to colour experts, red is the most stimulating colour you can wear. In fact, wearing or seeing red actually increases blood flow, and mimics attraction.
If you're a guy, your best bet is to go true blue. Leatrice Eiseman, Director of the Pantone Colour Institute says women are attracted to men wearing the colour blue. Eiseman says, guys who frequently wear blue are "stable, faithful and always there." The blue guy is perfect for a serious relationship: he's reliable, faithful and can match his own clothes.
Smile.
Psychology and body language experts agree that smiling is one of the fastest and best ways to make yourself more attractive and approachable. It's not necessary to look like you're trying out for "Used Car Salesman of the Year" — just your usual "I'm happy to be here and I'm having a fantastic time" face will do the trick.
Instant Chemistry.
A study at the University of Chicago has shown that men associate the scents of cinnamon and vanilla with love. To kickstart your allure, women can wear a cinnamon-vanilla scented lotion or perfume.
According to Laura Davimes, aromatherapy expert, and owner of Herban Avenues, "Wearing cinnamon/vanilla blends increases the presence of pheromone-like substances and dramatically increases attraction."
The food-love connection continues: Women, according to the study, are drawn to a black licorice scent. So, keep some licorice in your shirt pocket. And, if you're at a nightclub and just happen to spill some Sambuca on your shirt, hey, don't worry about looking like a slob — just consider it your lucky night.
