Everyone should have at least one 1911. There is just something about the platform that screams "perfection" to me. Also, don't believe the nay sayers. My 1911's have been every bit as reliable as any of my other guns, including my Glocks. And that's with a decent sample size of over 10 guns each that I have owned. 1911's are thinner than they should be, and very easy to conceal. They are also more accurate than any other gun I own.
As for which one, I'll tell you what works for me. I own alot of guns and am constantly buying a hyped up gun to compete for the position of my new EDC. But nothing I have found can beat the Dan Wesson CCO, so that is what I have on my hip most all of the time. The size is perfect for concealing, and the weight is good for me. Not so heavy that it hurts my back, and not so light that it is a problem to shoot. I can wear it in an OWB holster with just an untucked T-shirt and have no concern about concealment.
For your first 1911, it also really depends on budget. Although personally, I don't know that there is any reason to spend more than what a Dan Wesson costs (around $1,300 new). I own 1911's that cost more than that, including Nighthawks, Les Baer, etc., and I prefer the DW. STI is also a great choice. The STI Staccato - C is the latest contender to compete for the coveted EDC role, but that testing is not yet done. I need to get some more free time to get to the range first.