In a world where almost every communication is done electronically and “hooking up” is the norm, it can sometimes feel like modern dating is lacking…well, romance. There’s a reason why many of us love old black and white movies and vintage-retro themed shows like Mad Men – it’s because they remind us of how dating used to be: when people asked each other out on actual dates, called each other and showed up places with flowers. Although I’m not suggesting we return to the rigid gender roles of the 1950’s, there are some old school dating habits that we should definitely bring back:

1. Picking someone up at the door –

If there was ever a sign that true chivalry is on the way to extinction, it’s the advent of “I’m here” text. Don’t get me wrong – I do this all the time. I arrive at someone’s place and quickly send them a text letting them know that I’m out front. I’ve even received many of these kinds of texts from people I’ve dated. It’s not that there’s anything wrong with texting your whereabouts, but there’s something awesomely old school about a guy who is willing to go find parking and exit his vehicle, just to pick you up at your front door. Not only is this a great way to make someone feel special and valued, it also opens up opportunities for further chivalry and romance – for example, opening her car door and kissing her hello (in a location other than the front seat of a vehicle!)

2. Phone calls –

If it feels like modern dating has become completely telephone-phobic, you wouldn’t be wrong. The last time a man called me was in a moment of desperation after we’d been texting back and forth because I was literally lost on my way to his house. Although most of the time I prefer texting for convenience sake, there’s something to be said about hearing the sound of your date’s voice that is really, really nice. However, lately I feel like I’m perpetually singing the chorus of Prince’s “Why Don’t You Call Me Anymore?” So, I vote to bring the phone call back in style.

You don’t have to stay on the phone with the object of your affection for hours on end (ain’t nobody got time for that) but a simple phone-call – either before your date or to follow up afterward (and let her know that you had a really great time!) – is an easy and pleasantly old school way to set yourself apart from the pack.

3. Asking someone out on a real date –

If you ask someone if they want to “hang-out” – newsflash – that’s not a real date. One of the things that annoys me most about today’s dating terrain is how overly casual and non-committal people can be when it comes to asking someone to spend time with them. Although I think it’s totally OK to keep the first date low-key and casual – for example, grabbing a quick coffee or beer to see if you click – if you’re really interested in someone, why not go the extra mile?! Take someone out on a proper date. Whether that’s a nice dinner followed by an art show or something else entirely – planning a special day or evening to spend with someone you’re interested in getting to know better is an old school dating habit that we all need to bring back, stat.

4. Making set in stone plans –

Coat tailing on what I mentioned above, another thing that drives me nuts about modern dating is that people seem really resistant to making set plans with anyone. I’m so tired of guys saying things like, “Let’s try and meet up Saturday night. We can play it by ear.” Want to impress someone? Have a plan! We’re all really busy these days. So, nothing impresses me more than someone who checks in to see when I’ll be free and then plans to spend time with me days in advance (and keeps those plans!) It’s simple and common sense, but also a habit that’s thoroughly lacking from dating today. Hence, the reason I’ve been known to swoon when someone tells me, “I’ll pick you up at 8 and we’ll go for dinner at X place”

5. Wearing your “best” clothes on a first date –

FYI, that torn hoodie that you got for free thanks to that marathon you ran 8 years ago may be your favourite item of clothing but (heaven forbid) it’s not your best. An old school dating habit that definitely needs to make it’s return is dressing up. You don’t have to dress like you’re trying to re-live your senior prom, but wearing something nice – ie. a crisp dress shirt or your favourite frock that makes you feel like a million bucks, is a great way to show your date, “hey, you’re worth getting dressed up for!” When a guy shows up for our date and he’s dressed really well I’m always impressed because it shows he’s taking our date and me seriously.