When organising the perfect Valentine’s Day date, it’s easy to forget about your outfit. You’ve been so engrossed with finding the perfect present for your partner that you’ve overlooked your own appearance and are struggling to find something appropriate to wear.
Fear not, we’ve put together a definitive list of men’s suits and styling options to match any formal or casual date with your companion. Whether you’re planning a romantic candlelit dinner for two or meeting friends for a few relaxed drinks, you’re guaranteed to make a big impression while you shower your better half with adoration.
So, if this Valentine’s Day is your first date, or you’re aiming to make your partner fall in love with you all over again, here are 8 clever ways to impress the object of your desire on February 14.
The Formal Date
When you’re splashing out on a fancy restaurant for your formal Valentine’s date, it’s vital to dress appropriately for the occasion. We’re not suggesting you go full black tie as that could be too formal for the setting and intimidating for your guest. However, choosing a velvet jacket matched with a dark shirt and a pair of smart trousers will help you perfect a look of effortless elegance that won’t look out of place at an upscale restaurant. The velvet jacket will add a luxurious touch, while Chelsea boots could offer a subtle glimpse of casual charm if required and help strike the perfect balance between formality and contemporary flair.
The Smart-Casual Date
If you’re looking to keep your date more casual, there’s a wide variety of classic wardrobe staples that work perfectly together, a little like you and your guest. For a smart-casual vibe, opt for smart denim jeans combined with a traditional navy blazer or jacket. Ideally, pair your outfit with a crisp white or light blue shirt, or elevate your look with a buttoned waistcoat, perhaps in bold colours and designs that contrast with the rest of your ensemble. Carefully blending casual elements like jeans or chinos with sophisticated pieces like a blazer and waistcoat provides a contemporary twist and the ideal smart-casual dress code for your Valentine’s date.
The Cocktail Date
If your Valentine’s date is based around cocktails with your partner, there’s plenty of room for personal expression. You won’t go far wrong by following the smart-casual theme, perhaps by substituting the blazer for a statement cord jacket in earthy copper tones, or even going the whole hog with a full corduroy suit paired with a turtleneck sweater. That way, you can remove the jacket to create a more casual appearance, and the jumper will also keep you cosy and warm in the cool February temperatures. Depending on the venue, you may want to avoid wearing a pair of trainers, so go for something more formal like a pair of robust yet stylish chunky loafers or classic leather Chelsea boots.
The Activity Date
If your dream date starts with a visit to the museum and ends with a moonlit walk, you’ll need to dress for a range of different scenarios. That means transitioning from your practical casuals into something smarter as the day progresses. Navy and black jeans and sweaters deliver understated elegance and provide a strong, traditional base for this type of activity date, especially in colder weather. You could then add touches of colour and modern flair with a thick wool overcoat paired with a timeless tartan scarf which are easily removed when it’s time to nip back inside for a late romantic dinner.
The Elegant Date
Darker colours will always be a go-to option for any special occasion. Yet to make a lasting impression on your Valentine’s date you may want to consider something more daring like a lighter jacket or blazer in a vibrant colour or statement pattern such as traditional tweed. For example, a red or coral blazer is guaranteed to get you noticed, and the deep, rich tones are closely associated with love and romance. If that sounds too bold for your more conservative tastes, a blue or grey jacket offers a toned-down but reliable alternative that can be matched with a pair of beige chinos or smart grey slacks to complete the ideal elegant outfit.
The Post-Work Date
If your Valentine’s date consists of a quiet drink after work, you may be searching for simple ways to elevate your office attire without having to nip off home. It’s important to remember that adding pops of colour can transform your workwear into the perfect date-ready romantic outfit. For instance, dark chinos and a blue shirt are not only acceptable in most office environments, but you can dress them up with a bright sweater or vibrant scarf for the post-work Valentine’s meet-up. Cashmere jumpers in light pastels and pinks also go well with most work outfits and give a polished and sophisticated look, especially when worn under a slim-fitting overcoat.
The Casual Date
If you’re ready to take all the formality out of your Valentine’s date, a monochrome outfit might be just what you need. Choosing trousers, a jumper, and shirt in the same colour gives off an understated aura while maintaining a casual theme. You can elevate your look by choosing a shirt with colourful buttons or adding a pair of white trainers that inject an element of personality, without feeling too formal. From poolside cocktails to romantic walks in the park, monochrome attire could be just what you need for a casual date on Valentine’s Day.
The Singles Date
Single this Valentine’s Day? No problem, you can still celebrate with friends and family who adore you. Whether it’s hanging out with pals or walking the dog, spending time with loved ones is a great way to spend the day without feeling the pressure of being on a date. Not only that, but there are no strict outfit rules to follow either, so whether you choose to dress up for a night on the town or lounge around in joggers and a hoodie, the choice is purely yours and yours alone.
So, as Valentine’s Day approaches, these helpful fashion tips are designed to ensure you’ll be fully date-ready, whatever you’ve got planned. From cocktails at the bar to cosy strolls in the local park, you’ll never have looked so good for your next Valentine’s date.
