Somehow Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Not quite sure how that happened, but here we are. What a slow whirlwind the last year was. It wasn’t long after Valentine’s Day 2020 that all hell broke loose. Last year we relished in ignorance as Covid began sweeping the world.
This year we all have aged. We are no longer as naive as just one year ago. Covid was devastating to so many aspects of our lives. There is the obvious tragedy of lives lost, businesses closed, and the economy shattered, but there is a real and just as awful personal cost in mental health, relationships strained, and addiction growing.
Valentine’s Day 2021
I can hear you now thinking, ‘what kind of way is this to start a Valentine’s post?’ The point is since last Valentine’s day, life has been really hard. If you have been lucky enough to weather this storm with a partner, why not find a special way to celebrate him/her this Valentine’s day.
Valentine’s day is a great day to take a breather from the every day and put the focus on your relationship. It is a reminder that you are lucky to be walking this world with someone. So celebrate them. Make it special. Do a little something. If you are fresh out of ideas, here are a few to spark your imagination.
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Valentine’s Dates & Outfit Ideas
Hike with the Hubs*: Sweatshirt + Leggings + Hiking Boots + Hat
It doesn’t matter where you live or what the weather is like getting outside for a little while to walk or hike is a great way to spend time together. I took my inspiration from Lululemon’s new line for the Lunar New Year. The cool tie-dye effect is available in a bright red or a more burgundy red.
My favorite hike here in San Diego is Torrey Pines State Reserve. You can hike up and down the mountain which hangs over the ocean. The views are spectacular, and it never gets old. The trails are all short and relatively easy. There are several lookouts with benches you can stop and enjoy the view. To find a great hike near you, visit alltrails.com and put in your address for all the details on trails in your neighborhood.
Outfit Details:
- The Pants are the Lululemon Align in 28′ inseam. I like the high waist, especially when wearing a cropped sweatshirt.
- I’m obsessed with cool sweatshirts, and cropped versions are especially hot right now. The Scuba Half Zip Hoodie is available in six different colors and is oh so cozy.
- The sports bra is Zella’s Seamless Strappy Sports Bra. I prefer Zella sports bras over other brands. This one has a longer look so can easily be worn alone if you get too hot.
- Don’t forget the Everywhere Belt Bag to carry treats, sunscreen, and your phone.
- Keep the sun out of your eyes with this cool Melton Cabernet Baseball Cap & a fun pair of Sunglasses.
- I rarely go anywhere without my Simple/Modern Tumbler. It is quite simply my favorite purchase of 2020. They sell out fast. I like the 28oz with straw, but they have several different options available.
- Don’t forget your hiking boots, especially in the winter months when there may be water, mud, or snow on the trail. The Mt. Maddsen Hiking Boots are comfortable, durable, and waterproof. Any hike can be ruined quickly if you have the wrong shoes.
Picnic in the Park: Sweatshirt + Comfy Jeans + Sneakers + Hat
Admittedly this may not be an option in some parts of the country on Valentine’s Day, but a park is just a suggestion. You can take your picnic almost anywhere a museum (if available), your car parked with a nice view, or outside if weather permits. Here is San Diego, we just had several days of 80+ degree weather, so you never know. Of course, it was followed by three days of heavy wind and rain. Planning a picnic may have to be more spur of the moment.
Outfit Details:
- I’ve been eyeing this Sweaty Betty Bouclé Funnel Neck Sweatshirt for a while. The pink is perfect for Valentine’s Day. I ended up ordering the olive green.
- After almost a year of not wearing real pants, who wants to rush back into jeans right now. The rag & bone Faux Jeans Joggers are the perfect transitional pair. I am mildly obsessed.
- We’ve had a few cold and windy days here in SoCal. A hat on a windy day is a must. How about this cute little beanie?
- My husband has put the kibosh on me buying any more bags. My collection is a bit obscene. If not, this cool Everlane backpack would be mine. Only $78, and I get total Tumi backpack vibes.
- The Swift Run sneakers by Adidas are so comfortable and light. They are perfect for a picnic in the park.
- Don’t forget a quality picnic blanket. A good one has one side waterproof to keep you from getting wet.
Social Distanced Dinner: Sweater Dress + Boots + Faux Fur Jacket
California just lifted the mandatory stay at home order, which means for Valentine’s Day, outdoor dining at a restaurant is a possibility, weather permitting. The hubby and I usually skip a meal out on V-day and opt for another day when our favorite restaurants have a full menu at regular prices. I know, so romantic, right? Of course, we still celebrate the spirit of Valentine’s day no matter what day we dine.
Outfit Details:
- Banana Republic is killing it this winter. The Luxespun Tie Waist dress is only $39 right now, and the red is gorgeous. Luxespun isn’t as thick as most knits, but it has a nice drape.
- Consider wearing this fabulous Cropped Faux Fur jacket to top off your outfit. It adds some luxury to your look.
- Add some tall boots for warmth. The Sam Edelman boots are only $79.
- Madewell is a great place for quality costume jewelry. The gold is rich and doesn’t rub off easily. The Toggle Chain necklace gives you the perfect layered necklace look without all the hassle of figuring out what pieces to put together on your own. The Chunky Signet Ring is another fun statement piece.
- I added The Chapel Foldover Clutch in Leopard to tie the look altogether. This leopard clutch looks far more expensive than it is.
Netflix & Chill: Sweatsuit +Slippers + Cozy Blanket
Or maybe like us, you have decided you aren’t going anywhere this Valentine’s Day. Celebrate the day at home with Netflix & Chill. Lounge sets are huge this year and are perfect for a romantic evening at home. Pick your favorite movie, order in, and make a fire and enjoy.
What type of movie do you prefer on Valentine’s Day? A rom-com? Something suspenseful? Or something deeper? I am open to any good movie. I hate wasting any time on bad movies. One of my favorites is Silver Lining’s Playbook. Have you seen it? It is a romantic comedy with a good message about being your authentic self. Love it!
Outfit Details:
- I fell in love with this sweet set. The puff sleeve on the Rayna Sweatshirt and the cropped Roger Pants elevate this sweatshirt & sweatpants to the next level. Or course, it is a splurge, but what you are saving on a night out, you can put toward this cute outfit you will wear time and time again. If you are looking for something more affordable, check out the Free People Work it Out Joggers and Work it Out Hoodie. It has the same vibe for a lot less.
- A pair of cozy slippers are a must. The Patricia Green Shearling Slippers are like walking on a cloud.
- Add a cozy Barefoot Dream blanket to snuggle under and a sweet-smelling Capri Blue Candle for ambiance.
- Maybe make a Hot Totty in the matching mugs or add your favorite snacks to this wood and marble Charcuterie Board.
It is obvious which idea is my favorite. Netflix & Chill is definitely on our agenda for Valentine’s Day. When our world gets back to normal, I am definitely going to enjoy more fine dinners out. I miss a good restaurant experience. I’d love to hear what you are cooking up for V-day. Do you have any special traditions? Are you the go out and party type or the stay home and chill type? I hope these date ideas gave you some inspiration. Whatever you do, take a moment to tell your people how much you love them. You will never regret it.
I would love it if you followed me on Instagram for my everyday outfits or on Pinterest for my fashion inspiration. StyleDahlia is a fashion and lifestyle website with a modern take on midlife. We hope to inspire you to step out of your comfort zone, try new things, and live your life in full bloom.
*I used the title Hike with the Hubs for alliteration purposes not to subscribe to any relationship norms. At StyleDahlia we believe love is love and all relationships should be valued and cherished.
