The 5 Outfits Guys Secretly Hope You'll Wear

 

Photo: Matthew Hranek

Why is that lovely model wearing sweatpants? Because for the first time ever, REDBOOK consulted a 50-man focus group before we dressed her. First, guys told us what peeves them most about the outfits we wear (wow, do they ever hate boyfriend jeans), then we tweaked the looks so you'll both love them. (You'll note that our model is comfy and sexy.) This way, you get to dress for yourself and your guy. Everyone's happy!

Unbaggy sweats and a touch-me tee

The only time a guy will admit size does matter? When it comes to what you wear around the house. Says Josh, 32, "Sweats that could fit a WWE wrestler are comfortable — but flattering? Not so much." So this slightly more body-conscious look was a major hit. "It's form-fitting but still looks easy to slip out of," notes Cecil, 40. "I'm thinking afternoon delight!"
Cashmere top, Smitten, $158. Sweatpants, J.Crew, $49.50. Triple-wrap bracelet (worn as a necklace), Delicate Raymond, $89. Spike ring, Nicky Hilton, $90.

Photo: Matthew Hranek

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Simply sexy dresses

Seems guys are befuddled by bells and whistles (or, as one of them put it, "anything that's bedazzled and glittery, like she's about to audition for a music video"). And anyway, what could be better than a no-frills, and hence perfect-for-ever-and-ever, dress? Good advice from Lou, 27: "Keep it basic and let your curves do the talking."
Dress, Mackage, $425. Necklace, Jane Basch, $135. Bangles, Sarah Chloe, $129 each. Heels, Kors Michael Kors, $225

Photo: Matthew Hranek

Jeans and a white tank

Fuss-free is key when it comes to denim: Men just don't get the appeal of jeggings, funky washes, and superhigh waistlines. But "jeans that are not too tight, not too trendy, like these, are perfect," says Aram, 30. "And with a tank top, they're casual and hot." Adds Gabriel, 33: "Her outfit says, 'I can look great without trying.' It has an innate sexiness."
Leather jacket, Andrew Marc, $495. Tank, Splendid, $44. Jeans, Gap, $70. Belt, Joe's, $78. Earrings, Herndon Heald, $175. Bracelets, Sisco Family Jewels, $40 to $88 each.

Photo: Matthew Hranek

A pencil skirt and classic heels

Surprisingly, lots of guys thought minis weren't all that sexy. "Short skirts don't leave enough to the imagination," summed up Joel, 27. As for platform heels? "Tacky," deadpanned Charlie, 42. Which is where this iconic sexy-librarian look packs a punch: "She looks respectable yet flirtatious and inviting," says Josef, 28. "I'd take her home to Mama!"
Cashmere cardigan, White + Warren, $240. Lace tunic, Charles Henry, $322. Skirt, Ann Taylor, $108. Pumps, Kate Spade, $298. Silver pendant necklace, Nicky Hilton, $98. Quartz pendant necklace, Ippolita, $695. Watch, Skagen Denmark, $275. Glasses, Tory Burch Eyewear, $299.

Photo:Matthew Hranek

Pretty undies (natch)

Okay, so maybe you have heard how much men hate what one gentleman called "old-lady panties." But ultimately, as much as guys love lacy underthings, the most important factor is not that it's the size of a postage stamp but that it makes you feel pretty. As Eric, 33, said, "Anything she wears that I can tell makes her feel amazing is hot. Even better if that something is lingerie."
Hanky Panky bra, $57, and hipster, $39