Valentine’s Day is around the corner and whatever you think of the holiday, contrived or romantic, it is a great reminder to embrace and elevate the romance in and of your life.
I am a strong advocate for being inspired by Valentine’s Day in wardrobe choices, I love a theme any time of the year!
Using some easy and stylish sartorial choices - I encourage you to go forth and spread some love in the world from all who spot and appreciate you. Valentine’s Day need not be solely for loved up couples to gaze into each other’s eyes…although that’s nice too.
I am definitely embracing the Romance this Valentine’s Day!
Amazing, good for you! However you choose to celebrate your love with a beau, whether you manage to book a restaurant on one of the busiest nights of the year (yes this is your cue to get it done directly after reading this) or, like me, opt for an alternate night the same week Valentine’s Day falls, it is a lovely excuse to dress up and have a special night out with your loved one.
I never get dressed up these days…
You are missing out! Dressing up for an occasion not only makes you feel different (depending on what you wear this can be; powerful, confident, elevated or…downright uncomfortable), but by making an effort for a date night with the person who makes your heart sing, you are showing them respect. The effort you put into your outfit helps make a statement about how highly you regard them and the date you have organised or are joining them on.
How do I dress with Love?
Fear not my friend, you are in the right place to get this question answered. In this post I will share a couple of items I have come across which I hope will inspire your Valentine’s Day style this year and encourage you to step out with love on your lapel and your heart on your sleeve…so to speak!
From Left to Right:
Ami de Couer V-Neck Wool Sweater Vest €295
This virgin wool sweater vest is made in Portugal and can be easily styled as an all season go-to. Considering it's a unisex piece, you could share the love with your loved one however you and they identify. An 'all occasion Valentine’s Day' staple. If your celebration of love is more lowkey - pair it with a t-shirt or if you like a slightly more dressed up preppy look, wear it under a jacket and with a collared shirt. Already sold out at many stockists at the time of typing. If you love it, move fast to avoid heartbreak. Oh and it’s available in off white too.
ARTE Antwerp Stockton Heart Shirt (reduced from €110 to) €55
This 100% cotton shirt can be dressed up or down, under a jacket and paired with a Bow Tie…well you can imagine how dapper that would look! And not just for Valentine’s Day, this heart patterned shirt would be perfect for weddings, anniversaries or just to express your love of Fridays.
Commes de Garcon Classic PLAY x Converse €120
The iconic heart icon from avant garde Japanese/French label CDG meets the classic preppiness of Converse - what’s not to love!? Another wardrobe suggestion that would not just be for Valentine’s Day but wearable any day of the week, whether paired with a suit and suspenders for a casual chic vibe or worn with jeans, shorts, dresses, skirts…
From Left to Right:
ASOS Burgundy Crosshatch Waistcoat €57,99
A waistcoat can be worn time and again for all sorts of occasions, from weddings to Sunday pub lunches (you may need to undo a button or 2). Pair this contemporary yet classic style with a Bow Tie, Tie for a dapper look or leave it open over a t-shirt for a more relaxed look. Either way, the colour and texture of this waistcoat will definitely spark Valentine’s vibes all through February.
Wool & Water LOVE Bow Tie €83,99
I couldn’t possibly leave out my very own Valentine’s Day Bow Tie! Knit to order in Lambswool and Eco Cotton by yours truly, this limited edition and loved up Dickie Bow will spread love and smiles a’plenty. Pair it with a shirt, vest and/or waistcoat and you are looking and feeling dapper my friend. Ready to sweep someone off their feet or simply open your day up to connection and conversation. It also makes a wonderful Valentine’s Day gift!
Paul Smith Graffiti Heart Socks €28
If you prefer to keep your heart, less on your sleeve (or chest, neck or feet), then these gorgeous and vibrant LOVEly socks may be for you. For those that love a curious detail that not everyone will notice, but leave an impression on those that do. Don these beauties this Valentine’s Day and experience the spring in your step that a feeling of love can inspire.
I am not really into buying new things right now…
I hear you! You don’t need to buy something to channel Love in your February style. I have no doubt that your wardrobe already includes a variety of items that with a little intention and a creative twist could invoke that spirit of love, hearts, red, friendship…all the Valentine symbolism and themes to celebrate.
It could be red shoes, cuff links, a neckerchief or a necklace…have a consider and a peruse and inspire yourself. By doing so you are bound to inspire others or at the very least give them something interesting to look at!
Feeling Stylishly Inspired by Love?
I hope so, I certainly am! However you choose to celebrate Valentine's Day with your style, I hope you feel the love and spread the love - we could all do with more of it in our lives and not just on February 14th!
Fancy sharing the Love and PIN it for later?