What is it about Valentine’s Day that evokes images of frilly nighties, hot pink knickers and questionable basques purchased from the (now thankfully defunct) polyester paradise that is La Senza? Where on earth did this garish tradition begin? St Valentine’s Day has been in existence for approximately 1700 years, presumably without the aid of such garments.
Personally, I am not a fan. Mass produced baby-dolls and beribboned bras do not float my love boat, and after a quick discussion with my flatmates, it seems that I’m not alone. Inspiration for something a little bit different can be found in Ancient Rome, where St Valentine himself (one of the three commemorated on February 14th) lived and loved. I’m not suggesting you don your best gladiatorial breastplate and groove on down to the public baths for a scrape with a strygil; no, I’m leaning towards that epitome of Romans romantic, the toga.
Think sensuous fabrics in muted pastel shades, such as mint, cornflower blue, creams and chocolatey browns. Steer well clear of bright reds and pinks, as well as blacks which, although sexy on the likes of Angelina Jolie, makes most of us look like a dominatrix gone wrong. If you’re bent on black, and pastels aren’t really your thing, try black skinny jeans with a top in a tactile fabric; chiffon, silk. Kimono tops in subdued patterns are also a pretty cover-up; a bit chilly for this time of year but wear it under a big coat and go for the big reveal when you’re out at dinner, or after ice skating in Millennium Square. Consider keeping jewellery to a minimum; if your top has a low neckline, wear a necklace to break up the skin between your chin and décolletage to keep it classy.
The only sickly sweet on Valentine’s should be coming from the chocolate box. If you must go for pink, try a more subtle, nude pastel shade. It tends to look good on every skin tone, bringing out the peachy shades in porcelain skin, and bringing out the richness in olive and darker skins and will emphasise your eyes. These delicate colours will give your outfit an injection of classic romance without verging on the mawkish.
Another common Valentine’s Day urge is to manipulate your hair to within an inch of its life, back-combing and coiffing until you barely resemble yourself. This is all well and good for a big night out, and don’t get me wrong, I love a bit of volume. But when you’re going out for dinner with the object of your affections, or at the very least sharking on Valentine’s night out for ‘Mr/Ms Right’, a very styled ’do can be a tad unapproachable and intimidating. In keeping with our theme of a more romantic, Romanesque style, try something more natural. Roman women favoured loose, flowing waves (apparently reminiscent of the sea) to tempt prospective partners with. Try a hot barrel tong, or if you don’t own one (or can’t nab one from a friend), blow dry your hair until it is only slightly damp, then brush it out and twist into a bun. When dry it should tumble into loose waves: very romantic. Finish it with a shiny gloss spray, and it will make any man worth his salt want to run his fingers through it.
Of course, this is all very subjective. Personally, I think pretty rather than sexy is more appropriate on St Valentine’s, but perhaps a bit of spice is nice with you! What do you reckon? Sound off in the comments section, and remember to keep tuning in.
Lizzie Nash
Image: VancityAllie on Flickr
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