Fashion: Valentine’s Day style

Just because you love something it doesn’t mean it’s good for you. This is true with affairs of the heart and critical when choosing clothing.

You must be cautious if your heart rules your head. Silly decisions can sabotage the most stylish of outfits.

So this Valentine’s season the Evening News style squad has compiled a guide to romantic dressing that won’t leave you with a love hangover come the day after.

Think feminine and girlie when trying this look. The great thing about the brief is that you have a wide spectrum of styles to choose from, making it easy for any age group and dress shape.

Underwear as outerwear is a massive trend right now. There are a lot of bustiers available that look fantastic but can be difficult to carry off. Instead, opt for soft silk frocks that mimic negligees. Throw something around the shoulders, either a scarf or fur stole, to evoke a little old Holly- wood glamour to your look.

Romantic dressing is about creating depth and layering, imagine a Burlesque dancer at the start of her performance, with a tonne of fabric to peel off during her act of seduction.

Focus on tactile textures such as chiffon, velvet and cashmere. A dramatic coat over a dainty dress will do the trick. Or popping on a preppy jumper with some bright coloured jeans says feminine and fun for during the day.

Take advantage of the independent boutiques on our doorstep and mix and match high street gear with one-off pieces you won’t find anywhere else in the country. That way you’ll avoid looking like a clothing clone.

Now just because we’re talking romance doesn’t mean you have to stick to soft pastels. Being bold with bright block colour can look just as flirty. Hot pink paired with bright orange will get you noticed should you be scouting a lumber.

And let your accessories steal the show if the outfit you are wearing is within the same colour scale. A splash of neon is very on trend and looks great with citrus colours and soft pinks. Try a satchel in the shade to give your look a bit of edge.

Accessories can also transform a relatively tame outfit into a romantic dream. Team up chunky beads over a gold statement necklace to change the most simplistic of slip dresses. That way you can go straight from work to your hot date with minimum effort.

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