Yes, it’s cheesy. Yes, it’s overly commercialized. And yes, it makes bitter singles even more bitter. But when there’s so much negativity in our daily lives, it’s a refreshingly beautiful notion to simply focus on love for one day out of the year.

So if you’re lucky enough to have a date this weekend, put the extra effort into it and wear something that will make your bae’s heart skip a beat.

And if you happen to fall into that “bitter singles” category, you can still apply the outfit inspiration to a night out with friends, because they deserve some love too.

The Movie Date

If you and your date are spending a relaxing evening on the couch with a few good films and a lot of good food, you’ll need your outfit to be both comfortable and cute.

Guys:

Sweatpants are a must for lounging, but go for a pair of joggers instead of the classic baggy style. They’re trendier and make you look way more put together. Choose a comfy fitted tee with a flattering neckline; v-necks and henleys are way sexier than a basic crew neck and draw attention to your chiseled features. Then add a soft zip up hoodie for a street-inspired layered look.

Girls:

A pair of leggings in a fun print act as a perfect starting base to a lounging outfit. Lacy bralettes are a major trend right now. Pick one out in a color drawn from the print on your leggings and wear it under a top with a low-cut neckline or armholes to show off just a peek of the pretty lace. Then add a long cardigan on top for coziness. When the rest of your pieces are keeping you covered up, it makes the little pop of lace flirty but not over the top.

 

 

The Skating Date

When planning a romantic night of outdoor ice-skating followed by hot chocolate to warm up, don’t sacrifice style just to stay warm.

Guys:

Of course you’re going to break out the hockey skates and warm winter coat, but don’t forget that once you go inside to warm up, the outfit underneath matters, too. Wear a pair of medium wash jeans with a plaid flannel shirt and sweater. Plaid is a classic winter pattern, but a chunky-knit textured sweater brings something new to the look. A slouchy beanie will add some edge to your outfit and offset the preppy sweater and button up combo.

Girls:

Sure, you’ve got your guy to keep you warm, but layering fleece-lined leggings under your skinny jeans doesn’t hurt either. A loose sweater and patterned blanket scarf will look great under a color blocked wool coat. Accessorize with a playful beanie or earmuffs, a pendant necklace and textured socks. Plus, figure skates make any outfit instantly cuter.

 

 

The Dinner Date

The classic dinner date is a great excuse to get dressed up, go out on the town and romance your valentine the good old-fashioned way.

Guys:

Opt for a dress shirt in a subtle print or color that usually scores you compliments. Bonus points if you roll up the sleeves to just below your elbow (girls go crazy for that). At most restaurants, slim-fit dark wash jeans or chinos will be dressy enough. Wear a sleek pair of oxfords with a matching belt in a rich color like cognac. If you want to add a tie to polish off the outfit, try a matte textured one in wool or tweed for a modern, stylish look.

Girls:

Embrace your femininity in a dress or skirt that accentuates your beautiful curves. A fit-and-flare style will give you that coveted hourglass shape. Choose something with romantic details like lace, ruffles, gathers or embroidery and break out those heels or wedges that rarely make it out of your closet. A leather jacket with black opaque tights will help you stay warm and also tone down the sweetness of the dress.