Valentine’s Day is almost here — this is your guide to outfits for every kind of plan

From candlelit dinners to solo adventures, a look for every Valentine’s vibe

Love is in the air, and it’s working overtime as Valentine’s Day approaches. That one special day of the year that allows everyone to celebrate love in all its forms — romantic, platonic, and everything in between. While some people are already planning thoughtful gifts and perfect dates for their partners, others are stuck on a very important task: choosing the perfect Valentine’s Day outfits.

Valentine’s Day comes with more than one kind of plan. Romantic dinners, friendship dates, cosy nights in, fun outings with friends, and even solo moments all have a place. No matter what you’ve planned, keep scrolling for outfit inspiration to match the mood of the day.

 

Read also: Unconventional ways to make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable for you and your partner

 

The romantic dinner date

Valentine’s Day outfits
Dinner dress via @taliyahmykel on Instagram

For a romantic dinner, wherever you’re headed, your outfit should match the mood of the location. More often than not, date night means dinner night, so lean into something sultry and elegant. Think a mini gown that hugs you just right, a smooth satin dress, or a long, flowy velvet or silk gown. These kinds of looks effortlessly set the tone and always work for intimate evenings.

 

Casual date

Valentine’s Day outfits
Casual day date outfit via @nqobilekhwezi on Instagram

For a casual date, comfort and movement are key.  A corset dress with a ruffled, flowy bottom is a great option — it’s flattering while still allowing you to move around easily. You could also opt for a corset top paired with jeans and your favourite heels. The goal here is balance: you don’t want to overdo it, but you also don’t want to look underdressed.

 

Cosy stay-at-home date

Valentine’s Day outfits
Cute couple in matching pyjamas via Pinterest (original creator unknown). If this is your work, please contact us for proper credit.

If you’re having a cosy stay-at-home date, chances are you’re already comfortable around each other, and that’s the whole point. When it comes to Valentine’s Day outfits for nights in, a soft knit jumper (especially if it’s chilly), comfy shorts, and cute fuzzy socks are perfect. You could also go for matching couple pyjamas for the cutest look. 

 

 Read also: 10 romance film tropes that always hit during love season

 

 

Single night out

Valentine’s Day outfits
Little black dress via @raniarosefashion on Instagram

Just because everyone else is coupled up doesn’t mean you can’t have a great night out. Planning to catch someone’s eye or enjoy some me-time? Choose Valentine’s Day outfits that make you feel confident and at ease.  A classic little black dress will always turn heads. But if you want to really stand out, go bold with a sparkly sequin dress or a statement top paired with a skirt or trousers. Finish the look with great shoes and accessories and own the night.

 

A fun night out

Valentine’s Day outfits
Night out outfit via Pinterest (original creator unknown). If this is your work, please contact us for proper credit.

This is for dates that aren’t about candlelit dinners or cocktails. They’re more along the lines of game night, karaoke, late-night drinks, outdoor movies, or anything playful. Go for an effortless streetstyle look: a leather jacket, a comfortable black top, jeans, and sneakers. They’re relaxed, stylish, and the perfect Valentine’s Day outfits for moving around without sacrificing the vibe.

 

A creative experience date

Valentine’s Day outfits
Cute outfit via Pinterest (original creator unknown). If this is your work, please contact us for proper credit.

For unconventional dates that let your inner Picasso or Basquiat shine — think paint-and-sip, perfume making, pottery, and similar experiences — a dress or skirt outfit is always a safe bet. 

Choose a midi-length ruffle or flared dress. You could also wear a comfortable skirt or jeans and a small top. Since there isn’t too much movement involved, heels work well here. Kitten heels are ideal: comfortable, chic, and perfectly in sync with the creative atmosphere.

Galentine’s date

Valentine’s Day outfits
Galentines day outfit via Pinterest (original creator unknown). If this is your work, please contact us for proper credit.

Your besties should never be left out of the love. Galentine’s Day is another perfect time e to step out with your girls and have fun. You all could even turn heads by rocking classic coordinated red and white fits, just like Valentine’s Day when we were younger. However, that might turn too many heads lol.  That said, comfort is still key. 

A top and mini skirt with boots, a graceful dress with heels, a shirt-and-trousers combo, a blouse and skirt with pop socks, or a mini dress paired with a blazer and heels — anything that lets you enjoy the day while looking effortlessly put together.

 

Celebrate love in style

No matter how you’re spending Valentine’s Day, there’s no wrong way to dress for it. Big date, cosy night in, girls’ night out, or a solo moment just for you — your outfit should match your energy. Choose pieces that make you feel good, lean into the vibe of your plans, and most importantly, enjoy the day your way.

Read also: Elevate & Illuminate: In February, let love begin with you, before it becomes anything else

Author

  • lazyload

    Part writer, part culture enthusiast, and full-time observer of all things beautiful, Ashim is the Fashion & Beauty Writer at Marie Claire Nigeria. With a gift for narrative and nuance, she explores how fashion, beauty, and identity collide to shape modern womanhood. She brings her trusty pen, a curious mind, and a soft spot for all things creative. When she’s not writing, she’s deep in a K-drama, curating playlists, or finding metaphors in lipstick shades and late-night thoughts; classic INFP behaviour.

    View all posts Fashion & Beauty Writer
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