Valentine's Day is almost here and the date plans are made, but what will you wear? Everyone wants to look their best without looking like a walking Sweetheart candy or Hallmark card.
No matter what your date plans, here's how to get into the holiday spirit without looking silly.
New couple or a first date
What's the secret to a perfect first-date look? Make sure you feel comfortable and confident.
On Zach:
Go for a bold pattern! Like this leaf-covered shirt from American Eagle. A young, fun trend to try is the “invisible tie;" get it by buttoning the entire shirt up to the top. Pair it with corduroy skinny jeans — a big comeback fabric in menswear. Top with a cozy, shawl-collar sweater and she won’t be able to resist a hug goodbye.
American Eagle shirt, $40, ae.com; Bonobos corduroy pants, (on sale) $48, bonobos.com; Bonobos shawl collar cardigan, (on sale) $98, bonobos.com
On Melanie:
Target recently partnered with style site Who What Wear to offer a monthly collection of affordable options all under $50.(Amazing, right?!) We love how this striped off-the-shoulder dress works at any age and it’s a great way to show some subtle skin. And the adorable belt bag adds a pop of red while allowing you to be hands-free — in case you hold hands, of course.
WhoWhatWear x Target dress striped Bardot dress, $29.99, in Target stores *dress available online Feb. 28; WhoWhatWear x Target belt bag in Valentine, $24.99, in Target stores
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Adventurous or active experience
Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to share a memorable experience together. Mix it up by going hiking, ice skating or rock climbing. Luckily, the athleisure look is still in style, with plenty of cool options to choose from. The key is to layer so that you can go inside and out comfortably.
On Jerry:
By now you’ve seen men’s joggers a thousand times, but khaki is the latest iteration and classier than the original. This universal fabric keeps the outfit from looking sloppy — or like you're wearing sweatpants.
American Eagle joggers, $50, ae.com; Old Navy quilted chambray shirt jacket, $60, oldnavy.com; Old Navy henley shirt, $10, oldnavy.com; Knockaround sunglasses, $10, knockaround.com
On Gabby:
This outfit is cute enough to take you from a walk in the park straight to brunch without skipping a beat. Don’t be afraid of playful patterns and bright colors — that’s the fun part! (And they will look great in your social posts). Accessories are the name of the game: this fun pom-pom hat paired with reflective sunnies will take your outfit to the next level.
Old Navy leggings, $21, oldnavy.com; Uniqlo ultralight down vest, $38. uniqlo.com; Uniqlo hoodie, $30, uniqlo.com; Neff ‘Lulu’ beanie, $30, amazon.com; Knockaround sunglasses, $10. knockaround.com; Adidas ‘Superstar’ sneakers, $89, finishline.com
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Classic dinner date
Take a cue from your dinner date by wearing well-fitting classics … and bump it up a notch with cute accessories!
On Frank:
The window pane print is a hot trend right now for men of all ages. The pattern is subtle compared to a traditional plaid or tartan, while still feeling dressier than your everyday flannel. And for a touch of Valentine's Day fun, pair with these adorable heart socks.
Old Navy shirt, $35, oldnavy.com; Old Navy straight fit jeans, $35, oldnavy.com; Old Navy heart socks, $4, oldnavy.com
On Debbie:
These vegan leather moto pants from Melissa McCarthy’s new fashion line are especially cool in this deep plum color. See, there’s no need to stick to all black to rock a flattering look! And this embellished-shouldered top will frame your face beautifully. Candlelight at the dinner table will reflect off the gems and literally make you shine!
Melissa McCarthy moto skinny pants, $98, melissamccarthy.com; Melissa McCarthy embellished sweater, $118, melissamccarthy.com
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Girls' night out
Valentine’s Day isn't just for your sweetheart: It can be a great reason to spend time and celebrate with anyone you love! A great night out with your gal pals can be just what the doctor ordered. Go for a fun, fashion-forward look — and don’t forget your dancing shoes!
On Vidya (far left):
Red doesn’t have to feel so obvious on Valentine’s Day, especially when it’s this fiery color that the company describes as “Sriracha.” Cutouts will be a huge trend this spring and are much easier to pull off than they seem. Remember: Your waist is the smallest part of your body, so go ahead and show it off!
BB Dakota ‘Keegan’ jumpsuit, $98, articleand.com; Baublebar ‘Rhiannon’ earring crawler set, $36. baublebar.com; Aldo ‘Tiege’ pumps, $43, aldoshoes.com
On Brooke (center):
If you can’t let your inner rock star shine while out with your girlfriends, then when can you? This outfit is begging for a night out on the town and mixes two major trends of the moment: fringe and minimalist camisoles. We love how this kimono from BB Dakota — which will hide all of your sins — has a subtle floral print that keeps it feminine without feeling too over-the-top girly.
Jack by BB Dakota ‘Rosalynn’ kimono, $75, shopbop.com; Old Navy mid-rise rockstar jeans, $32. oldnavy.com; Baublebar ‘Excelsior’ collar, $38, baublebar.com; Wilfred ‘Boscono’ camisole, $55. aritzia.com
On Morgan (right):
Pretty and feminine doesn’t have to feel dated. This flattering wrap dress with butterfly sleeves is sweet enough to look appropriate, yet sexy enough to hug all the right places. Styled differently, you could even wear this to work!
Topshop wrap dress, $80, topshop.com; Old Navy faux suede bag, $17, oldnavy.com