Valentine's Day 2021
I never make a big deal out of Valentine’s Day, but since we’ve been quarantined for so long, it feels like I should go all out and have a date night, even if it’s just another date night in with the bae. Here’s what I’m wearing and gifting this year, in order to make Vday just as special as it could have been if things were “normal”. I shot these photos with a p[photography in the SoHo neighborhood in Manhattan, at the end of the Summer of 2020 when restrictions were a bit looser and outdoor dining was allowed. At the time that I drafted this post, I was naive enough to think things would be back to normal by February at least, in which I would be wearing this outfit out to dinner at Park Avenue Restaurant. Boy was I wrong! In any case, feast your eyes and shop my favorite finds for an oh so sexy Valentine’s Day. ***Just a quick reminder, before you continue reading this post… All images are shippable for your convenience. And for the sake of transparency, I’d like you to know that I may benefit financially from your shopping some of the items from this blog post.***
What to wear
I have a few different styles in mind, depending on my mood this year. If I go all out as if it were date night out, I’ll rock an LBD with a pair of black pumps. If I’m feeling low key, I’ll style a pair of black trousers with a translucent white blouse or embroidered lace bodysuit. And if I’m just not feeling like putting any effort into it, it’s very likely you’ll find me in sweats. Not I’ll be sure to make it a pair of luxe joggers and a satin cami, so I’m not too casual for a romantic night in.
Something with lace & leather
I know another date night in was the last thing any of us wanted, but let’s just make the best of a quarantined Valentine’s Day this year. Besides going out in a little black dress in Manhattan in the middle of February is brutal, so let’s face it, I’d rather be at home with my man anyway.
When shopping for your Vday outfit, keep utility in mind and make sure it’s something you’ll wear time and time again because we’ll be back in the real world before you know it.
A little black dress is a classic, of course, but add some lace and leather to spice things up. I’m wearing the Leather Rose Lace Dress by Fleur du Mal aka “FDM” In the picture on the left. FDM describes this number as their “classic rose lace slip with some downtown edge.” If wearing leather isn’t your thing, check out FDM’s Rose Lace Appliqué Slip. It’s a more cozy substitute for the dress I’m wearing. And in case the dress I just mentioned is sold out, try the Twill & Mesh Safari Dress with a pair of red pumps instead, which is also available at Net-A-Porter.
If there are any qualities I value in a pair of pumps, it’s black patent leather and a pointy toe. The sharp qualities complete any outfit. The sexy Caiolea Patent Leather Pumps by Schutz are available at Saks Fifth Ave. These babies are just a classic pointed toe pump and they pair well with any dress. I discovered the Schutz brand from another fashion blogger and I’ve found my new favorite brand for pumps, whether I’m shopping for basic styling purposes or a hot stiletto to finish my date night outfit.
Something sexy
FDM screams sexy! Check out the Built-In Sash Dress in Bordeaux or Moonstone for an oh so sexy look paired with a black stiletto. I prefer a little black dress, but velvet is very in right now. Whether you prefer off-the-shoulder, sleeveless, or boat neck, you can’t go wrong with that LBD. Every lady has got to keep one handy, even if it just hangs in the back of your closet for now.
Something pink
Sometimes a basic top and bottom are comfier, especially for a night in for dinner and a movie. Try this cowl neck spaghetti strap cami in Black if you’re feeling dark and mysterious or the Coral Blush for a softer vibe. The beauty of a cami is that it can be dressed up or down, with a pair of luxe joggers, for example.
Something basic
I love a basic aka “classic” look like black trousers. I love the V-Yoke Trouser in Black paired with a flowy white blouse or maybe something red for Vday. This is my go-to look for day to night looks, especially back when I used to work in an office because it’s a classic look that comes to life with a red lip and done-up eyes.
Something sexy… To wear underneath
Well, that’s your business, but here are a few suggestions… FDM’s essentials are sexy AF, but if you wanna kick it up a notch, browse their lingerie and garter selection. The Strappy Bondage Bodysuit is pretty hot, but the embroidered teddy is a little more subtle. Or you could keep it simple with a lace thong and push-up bra from Victoria’s Secret.
Something shiny
Everyone could use a little bling to dress up their outfit. I’m a huge fan of rose gold, especially for romantic occasions. But if you prefer gold, check out a few of these options from Aurate. Plus, you can order just one earring (and not a pair). Style an X & O look by ordering one of the X earrings and one of the O earrings. I also love the Lean On Me earrings, but I can also keep it simple with the Gold Bar Huggie earrings. And if you’re like me, you love good dupes, so here are a few that are available on Amazon. Also for anyone who is allergic to fake jewelry, like I am, I find these Amazon picks to last me a few hours.
What to gift
Flowers and a card are nice, but it’s the small gestures that make the biggest impact sometimes. Check out the 2021 Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for ideas on thoughtful gifts both big and small for your valentine. And if you’re a fella shopping for your lady, try the 2021 Galentine’s Day Gift Guide. I check my website traffic all the time and the stats don’t lie! I know 23% of my readers are male.
For later on tonight…
If you’re looking for a recommendation, I’m shouting out Foria lube! And if you’re into CBD products, you’ll love it. I remember when Foria first launched its sexual wellness product line several years ago because back then, they used the real deal (aka THC) in their products. Obviously, this was before the CBD space became so saturated with beauty and wellness products. BTW, Nordstrom carries a few different Foria products, like bath salts and suppositories.
More Vday Posts
Inspo for the perfect Vday mani, whether you’re going out with your boo or hanging out with your galentines.