Valentine’s Day: For some, it’s a time for expressions of love. For others, it’s a terrific excuse to pig out on chocolate.
For me, if nothing else, it’s a great reason to wear joyful colors in the middle of an otherwise bleak midwinter. There’s nothing quite like pulling on something deep red on a day filled with gray skies and snowy landscapes. Or snuggling into a soft swirl of pretty pink cashmere.
With that in mind, here are a few ideas for fantastic pieces to snap up in time to wear for V-Day.
First up: Alice and Olivia’s attitude-rich Karrie Embroidered Heart Cutout Jean ($495 on aliceandolivia.com). Maybe it’s the cool mid-rise and straight leg that add to their appeal, but it’s definitely the heart-shaped embroidered cut-outs that make them a standout.
When a cozy sweater dress is what you’re looking for to warm up your February day, pull on the Hyacinth House Pink & Red Color Block Scarlett Sweater Dress ($168 on tnuck.com) and revel in its pop of cheery colors. Its simple long sleeves, crewneck, and mini length are offset by the cable-knit texture.
Just as playful is Line & Dot’s Frankie Dress ($134 on revolve.com) in color blocked pink and burgundy, in a high-stretch jersey fabric with an alluring side slit. I love the sleek fit of this so much — it’s especially flattering with a set of black heels and a minimalist black evening bag.
On the polka dot front, I smile whenever I think about the Blouson Sleeve Midi Tea Dress ($138.60 on bodenusa.com), a midi-length frock in lined viscose. It’s flowy, flirty, and flips back and forth between its reversed red and pink dots in the cutest way, accented by dramatic balloon sleeves.
Cute and casual, the Nic + Zoe Heat Mix Striped Sweater ($158 on bloomingdales.com) is a pullover crewneck in a cotton candy hue. I love it with designer denim as much as I do paired with a winter white pant. It’s sassy and youthful but also sophisticated, and perfect for a night at the movie theater or the art gallery.
A terrific topper for any V-Day outfit — day or evening — the Alyse Relaxed Velvet Blazer ($70.97 on bananarepublic.gap.com) comes in a gorgeous dark jewel tone called Red Madder, and adds a tailored sharpness to your whole look. Check out its peak lapels and single breasted silhouette.
And finally, one of my favorite designer houses Veronica Bear has come through for the holiday with a fabulous red silk number — the Sabri Stretch-Silk Charmeuse Dress ($349 on veronicabeard.com). It’s a masterpiece of effortless eveningwear worthy of Old Hollywood. With an understated boat neckline and long sleeves and ruching at its waist, it’s figure-defining and graceful, and just the thing for a big night out.
