The modern lover

We can't all be Paris Hilton with a new male model on our arm every weekend, but us regulars on the single dating scene can still have some fun dating multiple guys at one time. And while Paris' string of interchangeable arm candy may start a huge debate on the etiquette of dating -- ELLE Canada wonders what are the rules for playing the field. Should you be exclusive with one person or is it acceptable to keep that black book a flippin'?

ELLE asked Toronto-based relationship expert, Rebecca Rosenblat (aka Dr. Date, drdate.com) for her advice and etiquette tips on how to play the field without breaking someone's heart (or having yours broken)!

Pick a number, any number: The benefit of playing the field is that you do not have to worry about how many guys you are dating at one time... two, four, ten, whatever you feel like. But dating and becoming intimate with the man does not mean the same things, warns Rosenblat. "In my opinion, if you're sleeping with more than one guy at a time, you're playing a dangerous game," she explains. "Accidents do happen, not to mention STDs despite our best efforts; so if and when you're dealing with a situation, you'd better know exactly who your partner in crime is!"

Flirt, flirt and flirt some more: Hey, if your not attached to anyone, what's stopping you from making some eye contact or throwing a few winks around? "Flirt outrageously, suggestively," says Rosenblat. This is your chance to shine, show off your best assets and have some fun. See that cute guy at the bar? Don't be shy, go talk to him! "Relay stories about yourself that highlight you as naughty, sexual, fun being," suggests Rosenblat. Although, if you're flirting it up in your workplace, keep it toned down. And, if you're seriously not looking for a one-night stand, don't be too suggestive in the sexuality department.

More tips on how to play the field on the next page!

Don't lead him on, unless you want him to follow: Be open and upfront when you decide to date someone. Let him know that you are dating around and not looking for anything too serious. Better to let him know before hand than to have him fall for you. It may be great for him to know, because then there are no expectations, no commitment to call etc., unless you both truly want to. Be sensitive to his feelings and be sure not to give the wrong impression. Besides, wouldn't you want to know if you were in his shoes?

Let him down gently: Despite your best efforts, your charming and sexy qualities may just lead your date to getting more attached than you wished for. Once your womanly instincts pick up on this ("Us gals always know when someone's getting attached," says Rosenblat), get it straightened out -- fast. "To make sure he doesn't get hurt, if you see him getting attached, make it clear that in as much as you're enjoying him, you're not sure how you feel about a relationship just yet," suggests Rosenblatt. If that doesn't do the trick, let him know straight up you are not interested.

Have fun: If you're out enjoying what life has to offer, chances are you're not looking to settle down (if you find the man of your dreams, that's just an amazing bonus), so have fun. Date often and date a wide variety of guys. Meeting new people is a great way for you to decide which one is going to be the most compatible with you. Here's your chance, so find a sexy outfit and killer shoes, and see why so many guys love playing the field.

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