It’s time to bid farewell to the plain red dress. With Valentine’s Day evolving beyond the celebration of just romantic love, everyone can now enjoy the festivities, regardless of their plans for the holiday. It doesn’t matter if you’re celebrating romantic love, platonic love, or self-love— you deserve the perfect ensemble to complement the occasion.
Whether your friends have planned a long-awaited Galentine’s dinner or your significant other dropped hints for a romantic evening, this guide has you covered for every occasion. The love you feel for your Valentine’s Day outfit should be just as strong as the love in the air.
THE ANTI-VALENTINE
BERGETT LACE MINI DRESS
FOR LOVE & LEMONS ($269)
We all have that friend who staunchly opposes Valentine’s Day. Maybe she’s dealing with a broken heart, or maybe she opposes the commercialism of the holiday. Regardless, bold rejection demands an equally daring dress. The Bergett Lace Mini Dress is reminiscent of Gucci by Tom Ford Spring 1996 Lace Dress, evoking the image of a grieving widow mourning the loss of love, rather than celebrating it. For those who want more coverage, pair the dress with a black undergarment or a low-plunge slip dress and add knee-high boots to achieve the perfect Anti-Valentine’s look.
FOR THE CANDLELIGHT DINNER
SCARLET PLEATED DRESS
HOUSE OF CB ($255)
A combination of vintage yet daring, this Scarlet Pleated Dress from House of CB is perfect for anyone yearning to spend their Valentine’s Day reminiscent of an Audry Hepurn-esque romance. The playful twist on the little red dress features exquisite corset detailing that compliments the figure. The piece’s simplicity allows for getting creative with accessories, or simply leaving the dress to speak for itself. Pair it with black stilettos and a sleek, slick-back bun to achieve a polished look, or opt for gold jewelry to add a metallic element.
THE ‘GALENTINES’ DAY
PATTON WHITE FLORAL SET
PRINCESS POLLY ($70)
The perfect Galentine’s Day unfolds over rosé and romcoms. While this can be done in your regular pjs, treating yourself to a new matching set can be another way to treat yourself and celebrate platonic love this holiday. Rest assured, you’ll still look cute (and cozy) as you gossip with your girls and are reminded why platonic love is truly unparalleled.
THE SINGLE & READY TO MINGLE
DELLA WRAP BALLET HEELS
SAM ELDMAN ($90)
Although we’ve graduated from the coquette trend (read out thoughts on that here), there may still be a time and place for bows on Valentine’s Day. These Della Wrap Ballet Heels from Sam Eldman take inspiration from the classic flat, offering an elevated twist on the dance shoes. Pair these with a silk mini-dress to finish off the look, and you’re ready to go.