I’m A Thoroughly Modern Woman But I’m A Sucker For These Old Fashioned Romantic Gestures

I’m a strong, independent woman, yes, but I have to admit I have a soft spot for guys who are old-fashioned when it comes to relationships. I’m obviously not talking about guys who think women should stay at home, cook, clean, and raise their children, but these habits that have all but died out really make me swoon.

1. Giving me his coat without me having to ask Maybe I’ve seen one too many old movies, but this gesture is so iconic to me. You know how the story goes: it suddenly starts to rain or maybe there’s an autumn chill in the air. Without batting an eye, he takes off his jacket and wraps it around my shoulders. It’s such a sweet thought that shows he actually does care and is capable of thinking about someone other than himself. Sigh!
2. Offering to pay on the first date I’m totally for splitting the bill 50/50 and in fact, I prefer doing that. Otherwise, I get this guilty feeling that I owe the guy something. I hate it! While I’ll go out of my way to pay my portion on a date, the simple act of a guy offering to get the bill is really sweet to me. It shows he’s grateful that I took the time to get to know him and see if the possibility of a future relationship exists.
3. Holding the door open for me Honestly, this one is true for men and women. When did people stop holding the door open for each other?! We’re not animals! This is supposed to be a civilized society. I’ve left the gym far too many times and had someone close the door right on my face. It’s rude. We should all make the world a better place and hold the door open for each other. When it happens on dates, it’s common courtesy but also really nice.
4. Offering me his arm while we’re walking This one is kind of cheesy, but I have to say I still like it. I think it stems from my love/borderline obsession with The Sound of Music. That gazebo scene with Liesl and Rolfe, anyone? It’s so adorable to me when we’re walking and he helps me jump over a puddle or down off of a bench. I also really like to climb things, so maybe this one is more applicable to me!
5. Taking off his stupid hat when we’re inside This definitely comes from my mother. My mom always complains about guys not taking off their hats at dinner or during the National Anthem, etc. I’ve heard her say it so many times that now the hat issue seriously annoys me too. If it hadn’t been for her, I probably never would have noticed. Sure, a lot of guys don’t actually wear hats, but whether it’s a beanie or a baseball cap, it needs to come off.
6. Making the extra effort to meet my friends Let’s be honest — my friends’ opinions mean a lot and can basically sink or swim any new relationship. I like it when a guy takes the time to talk to my friends and get to know them. It shows that he realizes these people are important to me and they’re therefore important to him as well.
7. Asking my parents for their blessing I know a lot of guys today don’t do this before they propose anymore, but I think that’s a shame. Obviously I’ve never been engaged, but I hope my future husband does this before he asks me to marry him one day. It’s a sweet gesture that shows my parents that he respects their opinion. I think it’s hot that he cares and the idea of him nervously approaching your parents is too cute for words.
8. Opening the car door for me on special occasions I had a boyfriend once who would do this every time I went to get into the car, and it honestly got hella annoying very quickly. That being said, I think this is still nice for a special date night or really anytime we’re going to an event where we have to get dressed up. It makes me feel so fancy and like a movie star!
9. Getting a little protective. I like it when a guy investigates a sound he hears in the middle of the night or reminds me to lock the doors when he leaves. I’m a total scaredy-cat, so the occasional macho man behavior doesn’t bother me. If there’s a burglar, my number one defense mechanism is to run away. It’s comforting knowing someone else is looking out for me and probably has a better attack plan.
10. Saying “please” and “thank you” This is another habit that really goes for men and women, but I particularly notice it on first dates. To me, it makes a big difference! If someone is refilling your water glass, you should say “thanks.” When you’re ordering something, you say “please.” Manners matter to me, and I’m a big believer in treating everyone you meet with the utmost kindness and respect, and I definitely expect this from any guy I date. If he wants to win me over, having manners is one of the easiest ways to do it.