By Sarah Bellal
Courier Fashion Columnist
If you’re like me, you may not be the biggest fan of consumerist holidays plastered with pink hearts, cellophane wrapped bouquets, and overpriced chocolate. I suggest you either a) wait until February 15th and buy chocolate on sale, or b) take some inspiration from the following outfits that aren’t your typical heart patterned sweater and a-line mini.
1. I won’t lie, this outfit does lean towards your more cliche Valentine’s Day outfit, but the details make it a point of interest. The organza material of the skirt gives it a more formal edge without going over the top, while the furry shirt grounds the whole outfit and keeps it young yet mature. The flowy silhouette juxtaposed with the boxy top ensures that you won’t look too girly or too stalwart. The d’orsay style heel is fashion forward yet unintimidating, and the simply jewelry doesn’t detract from the rest of the outfit. I suggest sticking to the cooler tones in the Naked2 palette, which are universally flattering and remain true to the color scheme of the whole outfit. (Top, Skirt and Shoes are from hm.com. Jewelry is from baublebar.com. Bag from cambridgesatchel.com)
2. Bookstore cafes are becoming an increasingly popular venue for dates, and this ensemble is perfect for looking like a modern beauty while being surrounded by modern literature. As with the previous outfit, this one emphasizes the details. Wearing a main piece as simple as this shirt dress showcases the beautiful leather accents. The hat and belt are quite rustic and bookstore-esque, while the oxblood satchel maintains an element of class. The heeled suede ankle boots give you height and elegance in the most subtle and casual way possible. Along the same lines of elegance, a delicate chain coupled with a standout pendant maintains a level of intrigue. Keep the makeup neutral and matte with the Naked2 basics, uniform with the rest of the outfit. (Dress, Shoes and belt from hm.com. Hat is from urbanoutfitters.com. Pendents are from etsy.com. Bag is from cambridgesatchel.com)
3. This one’s for the bohemian babe spending Valentine’s Day at a casual musical festival or craft fair. Mainstream fashion has taken its time warming up to the midi skirt. It actually compliments every body type and strays away from your typical hemline length without going overboard. The bohemian element is emphasized in the beautiful print of the top, and the leather booties and satchel add that western vibe that all hippies covet. The deep-colored garnet lipstick adds glam to an otherwise simple outfit. Keep the jewelry and any other accessories simple and unpretentious. (Blouse is from forever21.com. Skirt and shoes are from hm.com. Jewelry from baublebar.com. Bag is from cambridgesatchel.com)
4. If you’re not into wearing skirts or dresses but jeans aren’t appropriate for the venue, try a semi-formal yet comfortable jumpsuit. Because the bulk of the outfit is a solid, dark plum, there are endless opportunities for color blocking, as with the contrasting powder blue coat. The honeysuckle yellow satchel adds youthfulness and hints at the arrival of spring. Going along with the theme of comfort, the patent loafers are classy yet ideal for walking through the streets of San Francisco. Instead of metals and metallics, wear brightly colored stone jewelry and a solid nail varnish that stick to the color palette. (Jumpsuit and from hm.com. Shoes and jacket are from urbanoutfitters.com. Nail polish is butterlondon.com. Bag is cambridgesatchel.com)
5. This outfit is for the girl who wants to be comfortable and keep it simple, but look cute enough for a classy date. This slightly atypical take on the Little Black Dress is sweet and easy to coordinate accessories to. Because shift dresses tend to hide your curves, add a long necklace to break things up and avoid looking like a rectangle. The light colored oxfords keep the outfit from being too dark and dull, and are still comfortable enough to wear around an art gallery or museum. The satchel is a practical size and ties in the mint color of the necklace and eye makeup. Try a graphic winged liner to emphasize the mod 70s theme of the look. (Dress and Shoes from hm.com. Necklace from baublebar.com. Bag from cambridgesatchel.com.)
6. This last look is safe and classy, a perfect go-to for any last minute plans. I recommend investing in a nice jacquard piece like this dress; the print effortlessly adds instant sophistication to an otherwise uninteresting clothing item. This blush colored coat is the near same length as the dress, keeping the outfit streamlined and refined. Stick to a simple heel in a color similar to that of the dress, and introduce the serious pops of color with the bag and coordinating nail varnish. (Dress and Shoes from hm.com. Necklace from baublebar.co. Bag from cambridgesatchel.com.)
I hope that however you spend Valentine’s Day, it’s enjoyable, stylish, and most importantly: full of love.
Sarah Bellal is a self-taught and curated fashion blogger. She can be found on her blog at personofcolors.wordpress.com and on instagram and twitter @cerebellalum.
