So I know I said I don’t “do” Valentine’s Day, but that doesn’t stop me dreaming up fabulous outfits I’d wear if I did, does it…? I’ve taken one red floral dress and styled it three ways to show you what a great investment a cute red dress can be!
I did wonder how many people go out and buy a new swanky dress (or whole new outfit) for Valentine’s Day – I don’t really think there’s a need to be honest. I know that many of us struggle to find the cash to buy outfits for special occasions, like Valentine’s, parties or a wedding (especially considering you’re also splashing out on gifts, travel, accommodation, etc.), so to buy something that’s a total bargain and can be styled many different ways, and for many different events, is actually a really wise investment.
I’ve chosen a red floral dress with a plain neckline and a beautiful pale blue flower print from good old Marks & Spencer. The sleeves are long and the cuffs are fluted so it’s great for all body shapes and sizes. It’s a shorter length but if you’re not into showing off your legs fear not – all three looks I’ve created don’t reveal any leg (or very little, anyway).
Whether you need something for a romantic lunch date, a glamorous evening event or a casual day out with your other half this dress has you covered. It will then see you into spring and beyond, so I reckon this could be your wisest sartorial investment this year – all for just £19.50.
Yes you read that right – JUST £19.50 ($34.00 in the US)! I’m actually taking a bow right now because I’m so pleased with myself for finding something so versatile, stylish AND a total bargain to boot.
However if this IS the dress for you don’t hesitate as Marks & Spencer are notorious for running out of stock very quickly. (If you’re in the US here’s a direct link to the dress on the US site.) Here are a few more dresses as alternatives if red isn’t your colour or if you don’t do pattern (or if you’re not digging this one):
A red floral dress to wear multiple ways
This style of dress could be, I think, one of the most hardworking dresses that you could have in your wardrobe this year that’ll work for all sorts of events both glam and casual (if you’re searching some yourself look for a “skater style” dress). The styling possibilities are endless!
WHAT DO YOU HAVE PLANNED FOR VALENTINE’S DAY, AND WHAT WILL YOU BE WEARING? TELL ME IN THE COMMENTS OR TWEET ME @NOTLAMB!
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– 37 Galentine’s Day Gifts For Your Friends
1. A casual, comfortable daytime Valentine’s Day look
One of my favourite style tips – especially if you want to wear short dresses but don’t like your legs (like me) – is to layer a shorter dress over trousers or jeans. The best jeans styles are skinnies or cropped flares as these both give a smoother finish under your dress and work with the proportions of the outfit. Here I’ve added bold jewellery and a warm woollen cape as well as red boots and the funkiest bag.
Dress | Cape | Jeans | Boots | Bag | Necklace
SHOP THE LOOK:
2. A smart, romantic Valentine’s lunch date look
I love this look – it’s still comfy but it’s polished, tailored and sooo on trend with those OTK boots. If your weather still isn’t warm by February 14th you should still be able to beat the cold if you add warm layers under the dress like tights and a roll neck (or even thermals if necessary). The touches of gold in the jewellery and crossbody bag add a little glam to a really romantic look.
Dress | Coat | Boots | Bag | Snood | Earrings
SHOP THE LOOK:
3. A super glam Valentine’s Day evening look
If you’re lucky enough to be treated to a super glam night out, there’s no need to buy a one-off gown: Layer a long satin skirt over the dress and voilà: one new “top and skirt” combo. By investing in a full black skirt you can pair it with any number of tops or short dresses to create a new look each time. Simply add as much bling as you like, some killer heels and a clutch and you’re done.
Dress | Skirt | Heels | Bag | Earrings
SHOP THE LOOK:
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Liked the dress, bought the dress (not for Valentine’s though).
I enjoy following your blog!
Tell you what – good old Marks and Sparks! It’s unbelievable the amount of things I see that I’d buy nowadays. When did that start happening?
I get lots of sportswear from M&S and I’ve got a few really nice frocks from there as well.
Bang goes my punk rock street cred!
That satin skirt!! So cute looks! Xoxo, K&E
Catherine, I love this. I am all for finding different ways to repurpose a clothing piece so I can wear it in new and different ways. This is such a pretty dress and I love all your combinations. Thanks for the inspiration! – Amy
http://stylingrannymama.com/
Author
My pleasure Amy – it seems silly to buy a dress for Valentine’s Day alone so I thought something like this made more sense…!
I love the concept of the black satin skirt over the dress…and just imagine if it had a split front so you’d see the dress and boots underneath when you walked! Or maybe that’s awful and this is why I’m not a fashion designer 🙂
I don’t know that I ever get a complete Valentine’s day OUTFIT, but I do try to have SOMETHING on to give a nod to the day – a red sweater, pink scarf, heart brooch, something. I don’t usually have a date on that day either, so…and all my gal pals HAVE men with whom they WOULD be having dates so I usually have no plans OH BOY IS THIS TURNING INTO A PITY PARTY!!! Ha. Snap out of it, girl!
Are you feeling all recovered from your surgery?
Bettye
https://fashionschlub.com
Author
Haha Bettye I’m no stylist either, I just have a few tried-and-tested combinations that I know work [for me]… all three of these outfits are combos I’ve worn before in some way. I love that you wear something pink or red on the day, and why not?!!! No pity party, you just enjoy the day if dressing in red is what you want to do – GO FOR IT, GIRL! x
Author
Oh and I forgot to say yes I’m all recovered – thank you so much!!!
Dear Catherine. I am a total flower dress fan and do agree with you that they are very versatile. A cropped jeans jacket, a cardigan or a blazer plus the shoes you combine it with easily create many more outfits from one and the same dress. I am definitely going to try out your idea with the jeans under one of my (too short for the classroom) dresses….see if I like it! Have a great weekend. Love, Lieske
Author
I’m a big fan of shorter dresses over jeans and trousers Lieske – it’s the perfect solution for skirt lengths that are just a bit too short (either for the occasion or for your personal preference)! I bet you’ll love it when you try it 😉
Blimey that dress really is infinitely wearable Catherine! My fave is over jeans, I’d wear that way a lot plus I adore long sleeved dresses & knee high boots. Spot on styling mate, excellent job! xx
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Thanks MT – I love a dress over jeans too. And long boots and short dresses were made for each other, dontcha think…?? x
Some lovely items here Catherine. My eyes zoomed straight in on the Mango bag! I’ve put that on my list!
Laurie xx
Author
Laurie I think the Mango bag is my fave piece here as well – not only does it have a bamboo handle but it has a flower strap… I die!!!!!