Most singletons will agree that the art of seduction can be a struggle.
But some may say the old ways are the best. Dating experts Fleur McGerr and Johnny Cassell have set up a workshop to teach the techniques of a bygone era, as epitomised by screen siren Sophia Loren, in only two hours.
An evening at the Central & Co bar in Oxford Street will combine dating advice with the chance to mingle with fellow singles. There are even free drinks on arrival on Wednesday for those who need Dutch courage.
Londoner Ms McGerr, 31, is offering make-up and wardrobe tips. The vintage lifestyle blogger said: “It’s all about giving people the confidence to talk to the people and telling them the secrets to finding someone special.
You’ve got to make the most of what you have got — be assured, not brash; demure, but smouldering.”
For the less-than-successful man, 24-year-old dating expert Mr Cassell from Reading will impart his wisdom on everything from sheer brazen forwardness to alluring conversation.
He said: “When you’re dating, you have to project the best of yourself. It’s all about practice and building up a bank of successful approaches to women. And if you don’t get someone’s number then thinking positively and learning from it.”
The Sprizzato Seduction Class, March 13 from 7-9pm at Central & Co, Great Marlborough Street. To book email fleur@sprizzato.com
Lipstick, stockings, and... smoulder
Seduction has never really been my thing, as poor Johnny — my “date’” for the afternoon — and our photographer will confirm. But, ever in search of self-improvement, I was willing to learn from the pros and who wouldn’t want to be a modern siren like Dita Von Teese?
First there was a lesson in applying red lipstick in the most alluring way and a demonstration on how to adjust your stockings at the bar (not that I was wearing stockings — they are hardly practical attire for a news reporter).
Then Johnny and I had our “date”. With the glare of the camera and a small audience, it was not the most natural of conversations but, nonetheless, the dating duo gave me all the advice I might need to be lucky in love.
Fleur's top tips for women
Channel old school glamour:
- Take inspiration from strong women like Sophia Loren
- Hold eye contact and flutter those eyelashes.
- Be confident, even if you don’t feel it
Johnny’s top tips for men
Show your intent to a woman:
- If you want her, let her know!
- Speak slowly: make her hang on every word
- Don’t be negative: learn something from each conversation
