What to wear on Valentine’s Day

By: Esra Erdogan/Columnist

Do not look at Valentine’s Day as a day to binge on chocolate from your significant other or contemplate running over happy couples. Instead, look at it as an opportunity to get dressed up and go out. Here are a few suggestions of what to wear on the day which is reserved for proclaiming your feelings to your loved ones—or yourself.

Romantic Dinner

I am sure you have been on a million dinner dates with your lover before, so spice it up with an outfit atypical from a short dress or blouse and jeans. Ladies, try something sophisticated and sexy, like a solid black-colored jumpsuit with a low neckline. Wear bright-colored heels to complement the black.

Wide-leg pants made of silk with a funky print and a favorite tank top in a basic color is also an unexpected pick, but comfortable and chic. A neutral-colored sandal would go well with prints, no matter the color combinations.

If you must wear a dress, try one with a peplum detail like those seen on Jason Wu’s Spring Summer 2012 runway. A peachy or bright red color would definitely suit the holiday.

Guys, try a pair of beige or gray chinos with a plaid shirt and a navy sports coat in twill. Slap on a skinny tie to dress up the look.

Another option is to try a vest with a button-down underneath. Skip the tie for this setup to avoid looking outdated.

Theater or Opera  

If you are going to some sort of fancy performance where you will be the youngest couple in the audience, take cues from the spring pastel trends. Pastel-colored trousers paired with a breezy pastel blouse or button-down is both dressy and young, but also appropriate for the venue.

Do not forget about lace. White- or pastel-colored lace tops go well with a pencil skirt.

Guys, this is your opportunity to break out that nice fitting suit. I know I would be impressed by someone who wears a suit to a performing arts center. Just saying.

The Drake Concert

First, kiss your significant other hard for getting you tickets to see Drake. My concert philosophy is always to wear something casual but cool. Girls, a blazer, T-shirt and shorts with flats or oxfords is comfortable and stylish. Switch out the shorts for a miniskirt and you will still look great.

Boys, an oxford in blue or white with tapered chinos is also comfortable and stylish. Neither of you should be caught in a Drake T-shirt.

Brunch with the girls

Celebrate “Galentine’s Day” (Feb. 13) with a glamorous and indulgent brunch. We all know brunch is about wearing your chicest outfit with your newest clutch and heels. Wide-leg trousers in a bright color are still in, so pair them with a silk or lace crop top.

Alternately, try a pair of skinny jeans and an oversized striped sweater; belt it for some definition. Grab a clutch in leopard print and your trusty platform heels in a fun color or print. Also, sunglasses are a must.

Haute Topic is a weekly fashion column. Email at esra.erdogan@fiusm.com