How to dress for every type of date this Valentine’s Day

Dinner à deux on the cards? You’ll need a look that’s as refined as that menu you’ll be devouring throughout the evening. Call upon your most elegant eveningwear (cocktail dresses and strappy heels unite) for an ultra-luxe look. Black offers easy versatility and effortless sophistication, while pops of red – a lipstick, handbag or sole (hint hint) – allude to the romance of the season.

Hands crunching through popcorn, the audible gasps of delight at a glossy new box office release… few dates beat an old-school visit to the cinema. Plus, with an evening spent mostly seated, you can ooze comfort in loose-fitting shapes; wide-leg trousers, jersey jumpsuits and oversized sweaters. Don’t forget to carry a lightweight overcoat for the walk to and from the car and a roomy tote for snacks!

All dressed up, with nowhere to go. You can do little wrong with a giant dose of self-care on Valentine’s Day. So, here’s your chance to dive head-first onto the sofa and don your new pyjama set, complete with shearling-lined slippers. Pull out your favourite snuggly throw, as well as that scented candle you’ve been saving for a special occasion. Go on, you deserve it.

A games night may call for low-key style, but you’ll probably want to add a little something to your off-duty line-up. Layers of lace and tulle add an air of romance, so swap your usual jeans and tee for a floaty blouse or go all out with a flippy dress and sneakers. You can also play with layers and accessories – colourful knits, printed jackets, jewellery or even a statement scarf – they’ll add those all-important finishing touches.

If there’s one thing we love more than an excuse to get dressed up, it’s meeting up with friends for an evening of fun – and Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity for both. Time for your perennial wardrobe favourites, but with added glam. That printed midi dress you bought in the January sales? Add tights, chunky boots and your favourite stackable jewellery for an effortlessly cool look. 

If, like us, a day spent browsing the boutiques is your happy place, then a trip to Bicester Village is sure to delight. With 150 boutiques to explore together, you’ll want to wear something practical and comfy – that’s where this season’s ‘casual-luxe’ style, with its slouchier fits and lightweight knits, comes in handy. Just remember to reserve some time for dinner at one of our restaurants for one of their Valentine’s specials…