(Image credit: Getty Images)
It's tough to master holiday dressing without falling into clichés, especially when it comes toValentine's Day.Because you shouldn't have to worry about dressing yourself in something other than head-to-toe heart prints, we've come up with alternative outfits that don't scream cheesy. These looks stay true to the romantic spirit of V-Day, with pops of pink and red here and there, but feel like ensembles you can wear all year round. We've even suggested ways to incorporate heart designs into your outfit, should you want, without it feeling overdone. Since your outfit is taken care of, the only thing left now is to solidify thosedate night planswith your partner.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
(Image credit: Marie Claire)
Festive Florals
Nothing screams romantic like a high-neck floral dress. This specific dress by The Vampire’s Wife is called the “Unconditional Floral Dress” and is inspired by the John Lennon quote 'Love is a flower, you've got to let it grow.” So, a dress named after unconditional love…I can't think of anything more perfect for Valentine’s Day. To avoid the clichés, toughen up the look with edgy accessories that can take you from day to night depending on your plans.
Shop the look: 1.The Vampire's Wife dress, $1,315;2.Danijo hoops, $170;3.Etro belt, $324;4.The Row bag, $495;5.Khaite boots, $1,240
(Image credit: Marie Claire)
Out From Under
Finding the perfect date night look is tough. The key is to pay tribute to the holiday with subtle touches like pops of pink and a corset-style mini skirt. The corset detail feels lingerie-esque, which is appropriate for Valentine’s Day, but when styled with a laidback t-shirt and a chic oversized tuxedo jacket the outfit is sexy without being too literal. Slip on some chic mules and top it off with some festive accessories to add a pop of color.
Shop the look: 1.Sterling King earrings, $349;2.Stussy t-shirt, $40;3.WARDROBE.NYC tuxedo blazer, $995;4.Gelareh Mizrahi bag, $495;5.Dion Lee skirt, $690;6.Roger Vivier mules, $750
(Image credit: Marie Claire)
V-Day The Cool Way
So you think head-to-toe hearts on V-Day is lame? I beg to differ. Start with a Natasha Zinko heart-print sweatsuit paired with Nike dunks. Add some more loved-up accessories like a La Ropa trucker hat and some edgy chain black heart earrings. A sleek black coat and a shearling pink bag tie this 'fit together. By incorporating streetwear elements, rocking head to toe hearts has never been cooler.
Shop the look: 1.Mango coat, $170;2.Natasha Zinko hoodie, $398;3.Natasha Zinko track pants, $361;4.Guys n Gals earring, $25;5.La Ropa hat, $59.99;6.Stand Studio bag, $230;7.Nike sneakers, $249
(Image credit: Marie Claire)
Loved Up With an Edge
I call this look loved-up with an edge—perfect for my cool girls out there. Offset the bold bottoms with a simple black tee, platform sneakers, a mini backpack, and some sleek sunnies for a festive daytime look. Transition to your nighttime plans by swapping in some sexy stilettos and an evening bag. Regardless of your itinerary, crystal heart earrings are the ideal V-Day accessory. Bonus tip for my girls in a cold weather climates: Add a cropped black puffer jacket.
Shop the look: 1.Wilfred t-shirt, $30;2.Celine sunglasses, $390;3.Saint Laurent earrings, $795;4.Simon Miller pants, $395;5.Prada backpack,$1,320;6.Converse platform sneakers, $70
(Image credit: Marie Claire)
Simple is Sexy
Sometimes, the thought of outfit planning makes you want to cancel your plans altogether. Before you completely give up, go back to the basics. Take the pressure off of yourself when it comes to your Valentine’s Day outfit. Simple is sexy, and in my opinion there is nothing sexier than a little slinky top and some jeans. The satin and lace combo on the top gives the look a romantic feel. Accessory-wise, rock a metallic mule, a fun little bag, and some kitschy heart earrings to add an extra something.
Shop the look: 1.Brock Collection top, $600;2.Alessandra Rich earrings, $167;3.Brock Collection jeans, $475;4.Loewe bag, $2,700;5.Kwaidan Editions mules, $587
(Image credit: Marie Claire)
A Pink Power-Suit
Valentine’s Day should be about self-love, and that’s not limited to couples. If you’re spending the day with your girls you should feel confident and sexy, and nothing screams boss like a good power suit. This pink one cinches in at the waist and ties at the bottom, perfect for showcasing some strappy sandals or cool kicks. Complete your look with cool girl sunnies, a silk mask, and a mask chain with hearts—because it’s the day of love, after all.
Shop the look: 1.KES pack of 5 face masks, $67;2.The Attico blazer, $779;3.Amavii sunglasses, $225;4.Frasier Sterling mask chain, $28;5.The Attico pants, $359;6.Studio Amelia sandals, $324
(Image credit: Marie Claire)
The "I'm Staying in PJ Set"
In my opinion, going out on Valentine’s Day sucks. The combination of pre-fixed menus and below freezing temperatures is just not my idea of fun. So why not stay in? If you’re looking for a reason to rock a feathered pajama set, this is your opportunity. Pair your set with a sweet locket and some cozy slippers.
Shop the look: 1.Sleeper PJ set, $251;2.AARYAH locket, $250;3.Patricia Green slippers, $90
Shelby Comroe
Shelby Comroe is the Credits Editor and Fashion Assistant at Marie Claire covering all things fashion and giving credit where credit is due. Check her out @shelbycomroe on Instagram if buying designer handbags is your idea of a retirement plan!
Everything to Know About Justin Harvey, the 'Physical: 100' Season 2 FinalistBefore he arrived on Netflix, the South African actor appeared in a horror franchise and graduated from law school.By Quinci LeGardyePublished 14 April 24 Decoding Taylor Swift's Coachella Outfit, Piece by PieceThere's more to her all-black outfit than meets the eye.By Halie LeSavagePublished 14 April 24 Everything to Know About Hong Beom-seok, the 'Physical: 100' Season 2 Runner-UpMeet the only cast member to compete in both seasons of the Netflix hit.By Quinci LeGardyePublished 14 April 24
Stylists on Why Leather Jackets Are a Great InvestmentFashion insiders weigh in on their favorite styles.By Lauren TappanPublished 12 April 24 Grown-Ups Are Rediscovering the Charm of Peter Pan CollarsFrom bibbed button-downs to round-neck leather jackets, this year's takes feel more sophisticated than sweet.By Emma ChildsPublished 9 April 24 Sabrina Carpenter Wears Vintage Victoria's Secret Lingerie to Tease Upcoming Coachella PerformanceHer look was pulled from the brand's 1997 archives.By Lauren TappanPublished 8 April 24 The Best Chunky Sandals Prove Minimalism Is OutAnother footwear trend embracing maximalism in 2024.By Lauren TappanPublished 5 April 24 The Brands to Shop for the Best SwimsuitsFrom size-inclusive labels to sustainable and designer options, this list is all-encompassing.By Lauren TappanPublished 4 April 24 The Best Vacation-Worthy Beach DressesFrom barely-there to playful fringe.By Lauren TappanPublished 2 April 24 Could a 'Shirt Sandwich' Pull You Out of a Fashion Rut?The gourmet styling trick may help you fall back in love with your wardrobe.By Emma ChildsPublished 2 April 24 The Best Spring Dresses Simplify Any Outfit FormulaStyle this wardrobe staple for any occasion, from farmer's markets to formal affairs.By Lauren TappanPublished 1 April 24
