10 Things You Absolutely Must Know Before You Date on the Internet

By Clinton Kelly and Devyn Simone

Internet dating isn't so easy — there are countless factors that could work against you, from what you wear in your photos to the messages you send. That's where former What Not to Wear host and style expert Clinton Kelly and online dating guru Devyn Simone come in with 10 tried and true tips for the knowledgeable online dater. Be sure to check out their new show on TLC, Love at First Swipe, which premieres Oct. 2 at 9/8C!

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  1. It's not about finding the "best guy" — it's about finding the best guy for YOU, so think about the qualities that are important to you. Online dating is full of options, so keep your eye on the prize and only respond to the guys who seem in line with the ideal person you're looking for.
  2. Don't over-sex your photos with revealing outfits. Boobs are fine in moderation, but don't lead with your chest.
  3. Avoid crazy or kooky pictures and photos that are out of date or misleading. The you in your junior year of college or the you 20 pounds ago isn't an accurate representation of who you are.
  4. Speaking of pictures, the four key photos are an action shot doing something you love, a social shot of you hanging with friends, a full-body shot, and a headshot with great lighting.
  5. In addition to photos, you should share just enough information to spark a conversation — so nothing you wouldn't share with someone sitting next to you on a plane. No one wants to read your whole life story before they meet you.
  6. Stay true to your style! Your pictures should be a snapshot of the different sides of you, but at least one needs to look like you put some effort into your appearance. Be the best version of yourself — not the ratty t-shirt and jeans you wear around the house on the weekend.
  7. As for makeup, a profile photo should be an authentic representation of you, so be true to what you normally do. Still, though, a little lip gloss and mascara goes a long way!
  8. If you can't think of anything nice or interesting to say about yourself on your profile, have a friend say it for you. They can be great at pointing out positive qualities you didn't know you had.
  9. No person is one-dimensional, so don't create a profile that only shows one side of you. Highlight the different parts of your personality and things you like to do with your pictures and your content.
  10. Remember, you have control over what you're putting out to the world. If you don't like the results you're getting, then switch things up – add new photos, change up content. Have a game plan, know your dealbreakers, and be prepared. After all, you never know when you'll have a date with destiny.