Love is in the air, or so it seems every February 14th when Valentine’s Day rolls around. From fully booked restaurants to romantic breaks away, couples everywhere will be out in force enjoying dates to celebrate their love.
While some couples are happy to kick their pyjama-clad feet up in front of the TV, others like to celebrate the day with an extravagant date. Regardless of how you feel about Valentine’s Day, if you’ve agreed to a date with your special someone, you should take some time to dress for the occasion – as they’ll most likely be doing the same!
Suits or Shirt – Accept Nothing Less
Nothing says maturity like a smart suit. However, you’re in danger of being overly formal unless your date is in an ultra-swanky restaurant. Full suits also put you in danger of giving off a job interview vibe. Instead, pairing a suit jacket and shirt with slim-fit dark jeans is a good way to get the best of both worlds. Alternatively, if you want to keep things fancy, a waistcoat is a true gentlemen’s touch – but remember to dress for the venue.
You can experiment with bolder, more fashion-forward designs such as houndstooth, dogtooth and check suit jackets. You’ll turn her head, but if they’re not into more exuberant menswear you may miss the mark.
Of course, you don’t need a full suit. A pair of trousers and a smart shirt are also a good option for a more formal date. In a more informal setting, a check shirt and dark jeans will do the job. Whatever style you opt for, you’ll need something well-fitting. Make sure the buttons don’t strain when you raise your arms up – especially if you’re going to be leaning in for a Valentine’s Day kiss.
Smart Shoes Only
Trying to make a good impression means going beyond the curve. While trainers are now acceptable, worn in nightclubs as often as in sporting environments, it’s better to opt for smart shoes for a Valentine’s Day date. Brogues and loafers are good options for a smart yet casual look, especially if you wear brown shoes and blue trousers or denim to create an effective contrast.
Accessorise!
A fancy date means fancier dressing. As a man, it can be difficult to add dazzle to an outfit without going totally overboard. You’ll need to think subtle details – from a tie clip for posh dates to sensible dress watches for virtually all scenarios. If you’ve went for a full suit and you’re off for a Michelin star meal, a pocket square will help add a final, luxurious touch.
