As a female I've always been very bad at reading "signals". I could see this being confusing for guys just as well if you're one of those who doesn't "read" people so to speak especially if you're the one making the move.
Just for the record, I don't dress in tight clad clothing. I'm more of crazy bohemian yet modest person which probably really sends a mixed up message.
Clothing has little to do with "signals" Nor has make up or hair styles. It is mostly about eye contact and body language. If a guy looks you over in an un-obvious way, then catches your eye... holds it a moment and slowly smiles... you are not going to think he hates you. If you smile back... talking becomes easy.... and that is as obvious as it gets...
As for tight clothes, That is the tarty end of the scale, and will put off more than it attracts.
I thought the prettiest style for girls was the shirt waister, it gave the greatest scope for expressing your mood.
The crazy Bohemian girls in loose caftan type dresses were certain a turn on for my generation. The dresses could cling where the touched and gave full scope to the imagination.... gives a little shiver...