Dressing For Valentine's Day... (without all the usual red and pink)

Still puzzling over what to wear on Valentine's Day? You are not alone! While I absolutely love the color red and usually take any excuse to wear it, I thought it would be interesting to dig through less "holiday-ish" styles and see if we could get some fashion-y ideas by browsing some real classic looks.

First of all, you can wear any color that you want on Valentine's Day (although I'd advise against all-black, unless you are in mourning ;). Soft, muted "wintry" shades are totally appropriate - and pale grey makes a great base for any color.

If you're lucky enough to have found one - slip on that perfect dress; add a soft, flowing cardigan and some killer shoes for a great look. If you don't have a dress, two complimentary separates work just as well (see the pencil skirt in the topmost image).

Pretty much anything with a vintage touch is perfect for this holiday  (the dress shown here is so early 1930s - I love it!) and ruffles, bows and other feminine details reign supreme. Now is the time pull out any unique and lovely shoes that have been hiding away in your closet. I think these black ones, with cutouts and a ribbon tie, are so chic.

Soft and flowing looks are fabulous on this romantic holiday - and the two blouses shown above are stunners. The vintage print of the first one is charming and the neckline tie adds some feminine flare. You can get a similar look by pairing a silk scarf in a yummy color with a printed top - or the reverse. If you can find an accessory that brings out one of the colors in a printed piece, it is almost guaranteed to look wonderful.

The second example shows how black can be feminine and pretty on this holiday... without looking dark or depressing. The light shade of the pencil skirt keeps things bright and the accent of the silk flowered belt gives it a romantic touch, while defining a waistline on a loose, full top.

Be sure to remember that structured looks can be every bit as pretty and romantic as softer ones. Go with what you know suits you best. A little, structured jacket is universally flattering and feminine. Choose one with nice details, whether they are cute pockets, a yoked neckline or an interesting sleeve style. And check out the fantastic faux "necklace" look on the black top above - detail ideas are endless!

You can also add interest by making your own ruffled flower, brooch or or bejewled accessory to pin onto your jacket or blouse (as seen on both above styles). I have watched this huge trend for fashion-y feminine "brooches" all winter long - now is the time to get creative and make your own!

Don't be afraid to experiment with your jewelry and accessory choices! Sometimes it's better to go a bit crazy and pile on a lot of items... and then weed it down to the few that work and just go with those. Often our best style pieces can get trapped inside that accessory box... because we simply don't take them out and try them.

I love the details on these pieces. The ruffled bracelet is so unique and trendy (I may try and make one of these myself) and a seemingly simple belt holds an unexpected rose design. In fact, pieces like these can easily be made on your own. I suggest that you check out fabulous blog Ruffles and Stuff for some inspiration. :)

What are you planning to wear on Valentine's Day?  Do you already have your outfit picked out or did this post give you any ideas?

Most importantly, do you even like the holiday? I've seen a lot of lashing out against this event on the web recently, mostly from singles who feel it is a sad time. I have never felt this way (I get excited about pretty much any holiday ;) but I would love to hear your thoughts. Maybe I can get my act together and post something on the subject on Sunday. We'll see...

Have a fab weekend! :)

Images: Newport-News.com - Flirt With Fashion