In the days of my youth, the beginning of February signaled an anxious countdown to the dreaded 14th day of the month, hoping and praying that my 16-year-old situationship would miraculously perform an act of romance that made Valentine’s Day a day worth living for. To no one’s surprise—least of all my own—he never did. But in the years since then, I’ve learned to appreciate Valentine’s Day for what it should be: a little surge of joy amidst the bleakness of a cold, gray winter.
Regardless of whether or not you have a romantic partner you’re planning to celebrate Valentine’s Day with, the holiday brings a little something for everyone. Galentine’s wine nights, touches of pink and red, a sprinkle of heart-shaped accessories—it all combines to represent girlhood at its finest. Stressing about your Valentine’s date? Out. Plotting a Valentine’s Day outfit that’s so good, you don’t care where the day takes you? So in.
For a subtly festive office day
If you’re like me, you’ll take any opportunity to lean into the whimsy-ness that Valentine’s Day offers. And that includes putting together an on-theme outfit for your last trek to the office before V-Day weekend—whether your company is throwing a little celebration or not. This outfit appears like any other work look, but looking closely reveals pointelle hearts on the sweater and festive dachshunds on the socks.
Shop this look: Cardigan | Trousers | Tote | Loafers | Socks | Earrings
For a casual date
If you’re trying to plan a Valentine’s outfit that leans away from any cheesiness—not literally, though… yes to Valentine’s Day fondue—relying on more subtle Valentine’s accessories is your best bet. Heart earrings might be inherently festive, but it can still be worn year-round, as can this fun striped sweater.
Shop this look: Sweater (Regular Sizing) | Jeans | Jacket | Flats | Bag | Earrings
To make dinner at your S.O.’s place
In my humble opinion, a night in spent cooking and watching a movie is the peak of Valentine’s Day romance. The occasion calls for an elevated sweats moment, and this leopard-print sweatpants, T-shirt, and cardigan combo fits the bill to a T. The form-fitting tee and heart-patterned bra will give you the opportunity to take off your cardigan and feel a little sexy, but not completely overdressed. And of course, you can’t forget your sleepover bag.
Shop this look: Tee | Sweatpants (Plus) | Cardigan | Bra | Sneakers | Tote
For a Galentine’s night out
Is there a better feeling than calling your Uber to head to a night out that’s going to be spent yapping over espresso martinis and wine? The answer is no. This look is mostly neutral (AKA, you can definitely wear it again), but the pop of red and incorporation of zebra print makes it perfect for Galentine’s Day night out with your girls.
Shop this look: Top (Plus) | Skirt (Plus) | Jacket | Boots (Wide Calf) | Bag | Earrings
For a Galentine’s night in
I think we can all agree that spending Galentine’s with your besties is actually the best part of Valentine’s Day. A cheeky sweatshirt and comfy pants will only add to the joy of celebrating the day of love with your friends. Whether your opt for a craft night, a favorite things party, or a classic wine and charcuterie gathering, you’ll be both comfy and festive.
Shop this look: Sweatshirt | Pants (Plus) | Clogs | Bag | Claw Clip
For a fancy dinner date
While there’s no shame in reaching for a classic red dress for your V-Day date, this look proves that you don’t have to. This pink polka dot maxi dress is perfect for the occasion, but comfortable enough to go all-in on pasta and dessert. Finish the look with a kitschy beaded bag and a classic black coat and heels.
Shop this look: Dress (Plus) | Coat | Heels | Bag | Earrings
For a Valentine’s weekend brunch
A daytime outfit always poses a bit more of a challenge than a nighttime one. You don’t want to feel too overdone, but don’t want to lose the confidence that an extra-special outfit gives, either. While the base of this outfit is pretty simple—jeans and a cardigan—it’s made memorable through the eye-catching heart print on the sweater. Finishing the look with classic suede accessories and a burgundy leather jacket ensures that it’s not too much.
Shop this look: Sweater (Budget/Plus) | Jeans | Jacket (Plus) | Boots | Bag | Bag Charm
Jessica Welsh, Senior Fashion & Beauty Editor
Jessica oversees and edits all fashion and beauty content on The Everygirl. She also writes in-depth styling stories, trend reports, capsule wardrobes, and more. She was previously the Commerce Editor for The Everymom, where she oversaw all shopping content on the site and social. She has created editorial content for major brands such as Nordstrom, Old Navy, DSW, and Kohl’s.
Madeline Galassi, Former Senior Fashion & Beauty Editor
Madeline Galassi is the former Fashion & Beauty Editor at The Everygirl, where she oversaw the fashion and beauty categories of the site. She brainstormed, wrote, and edited stories across a broad range of topics including trend reports, product reviews, celebrity style, and more. She’s always keeping a pulse on the latest trends to create timely, exciting content for our readers.
Products included in graphics linked within article. Feature graphic image credited to: Maddy Haller | Dupe.
