From The Straits Times    |
valentines day 2019 outfit feature image

You’re a busy, independent woman with a busy job and an equally busy life. You don’t have time to spend mulling over what to wear on a date. Even if that date is on Valentine’s Day. And even if love is in the air. But let’s be honest — it means something to your date that you’ve made the effort. So, here are five #OOTD ideas for different types of dates.

 

It’s fancy and fine dining

L to R: Saint Laurent jacket with western-style detailing and leather collar, US$3,690 (S$4,993); Zara geometric heel leather mules, S$139; H&M bandeau bikini top, S$24.95; Alaïa stretch knit mini skirt, £1,500 (S$2,674), from Net-a-Porter; Zara tweed nautical cap, S$45.90; Simone Rocha embroidered leather clutch, US$438 (S$593), from Matchesfashion

You know, starched, white tablecloths, wait staff in jackets, a place for every type of cutlery, and $$$$ prices. It’s a nice restaurant so showing up in a sophisticated number isn’t too much to ask. Opt for something fun yet flirty — a bandeau top, a skater skirt and a blush-pink blazer. Then, make it quirky with a pair of mules with sculptural heels and an embroidered bag.

 

It’s cocktails at a hipster bar (dancing optional)

L to R: Apiece Apart cropped off-the-shoulder striped linen and silk-blend top, £245 (S$437), from Net-a-Porter; Zara animal print leather high heel shoes, S$119; Uniqlo x Ines de la Fressange chino trousers, S$49.90; Shashi, S$65, from Shopbop; Charles & Keith window crossbody bag, S$79.90

A bodycon dress for cocktails at a trendy drinking spot? That’s too expected. Our recommendation: Wear an off-shoulder blouse (to show a hint of décolletage) and a pair of chino trousers (for boyish appeal). Style the ensemble with a pair of chunky leather heels (for maximum comfort) and statement accessories. If you and your date decide to round up the night with a spot of dancing (at said drinking spot or under the stars), you’ll still be perfectly dressed for it.

 

ALSO READ: 15 ROMANTIC RESTAURANTS FOR VALENTINE’S DAY CELEBRATION

 

It’s a midnight movie

L to R: Zara animal print blouse, S$69.90; Lovisa thick acrylic bangle, AUD$19.99 (S$19); Brunello Cucinelli tiered bead-embellished tulle skirt, £1,140 (S$2,032), from Net-a-Porter; Olympia Le Tan x Wendy Yu The Chinese Fairy Book appliquéd embroidered canvas clutch, £1,335 (S$2,379), from Net-a-Porter; Charles & Keith asymmetrical strap sandals, S$49.90

Since the cinema will be cold, we suggest you keep yourself snug in a long-sleeved blouse and a tulle maxi skirt for that feminine appeal. Accessorise with a pair of sandals, a multi-coloured bracelet and a book clutch for that touch of eclectic flair.

 

It’s hitting the pins at the bowling alley

L to R: H&M rib knit cardigan, S$34.95; COS detachable leather belt bag, S$80; Zara darted trousers, S$119; Bjørg Jewellery baroque pearl necklace, €160 (S$247); Isabel Marant logo-print leather and suede sneakers, £405 (S$722), from Net-a-Porter

If #fitspo is what you and your partner live for, a bowling date would be right up your alley (no pun intended). A cardigan and a pair of trousers will keep you warm in the cooler environment. Slip on a pair of comfortable kicks and finish your look with a belt bag for that ’90s aesthetic.

 

It’s museum or gallery hopping

L to R: Brock Collection floral-print cotton-poplin maxi dress, £853 (S$1,521), from Net-a-Porter; Zara textured earrings, S$29.90; Fendi Baguette raffia shoulder bag, £1,750 (S$3,121), from Net-a-Porter; Charles & Keith criss cross heeled detail sandals, S$49.90

Since 2019 marks the Singapore Bicentennial, it’s a good time to check out the exhibitions and arts festivals commemorating Sir Stamford Raffles’ arrival in Singapore, such as the hotly anticipated light art installation iLight Singapore. Be prepared for a good amount of walking, so get into something easy and comfortable, like a billowy cotton dress and a pair of block heel sandals.

 

ALSO READ: NEED VALENTINE’S DAY CELEBRATION IDEAS? HERE ARE MEANINGFUL WAYS TO SPEND COUPLE TIME