Well, After my last blog on Emily in Paris, I started thinking - do clothes always have to conform to reality, or can they err on the side of fantasy? I wanted to explore this question a little more as we quickly approach what’s supposed to be the most romantic, fantasy-inducing day of the year (apparently) - Valentine’s Day. 

If we’re mostly living in a virtual, non-structured existence where you don’t need separate outfits for weekend lounging, workdays, dinners out, coffee dates, and errands, do the rules of what to wear really apply anymore? Are we being handed a unique opportunity to physically wear our fantasies on our sleeves by dressing however we want, whenever? 

Personally, I used the past two years as an opportunity to start wearing the clothes and accessories that would only come out of my closet on weekends: fancy dresses, designer boots, vintage bold jewelry, signature belts, hats, and statement scarves. Sweats and athleisure weren’t on the menu, my dears. This was my chance to be myself 100% of the time and indulge in my romance with fashion (outside of barre class, of course). After moving into D.C., I was even more encouraged to “dress to impress” on a regular basis. (I mean, even people walking their dogs in the morning are serving looks). 

Truthfully, winter is one of the best times of the year to play with your style because you can simply wear more in cold weather - outerwear, chunky jewelry, layers of knits, funky tights, and other pieces you can combine into various options for a complete look. More is more, which makes dressing on the side of fantasy even more accessible to us. For me, fantasy through fashion isn’t about clothes that read costume, it’s about embracing eye catching, out of the ordinary details. While I love a sleek, clean outfit (e.g., Vince, Theory, Rag & Bone), I am inspired by brands that make me do a double take with their creative designs, like Red Valentino, Moschino, and Alexander McQueen (not to mention my all time love, Saint Laurent). The way these fashion houses bring dream like details into reality is simply amazing. While Red Valentino can integrate its opera inspired opulence into the most common of silhouettes, McQueen combines the romantic flares of almost historically referenced clothes with present day edginess. Missoni proves that you can wear bright and bold patterned knits pretty much anywhere and for any occasion. And you can be comfortable while making a statement. If you are looking for whimsical yet more affordable pieces that will blend into your daily look, check out Rebecca Taylor, M Missoni, Ganni, IRO, and Isabel Marant. These brands make clothes that are easy to assimilate into your wardrobe while adding flare with their impactful or romantic details, prints, and cuts. 

This Valentines Day, I challenge you to ditch the basic red dress and shoes for the unexpected. Wear an outfit that celebrates not only who you are but who you dream of becoming. Something that brings you out of the conventional and closer with your romantic, adventurous self. Because one of the most important kinds of love is self love, and that’s worth celebrating. Aside from the upcoming holiday, why not use this unusual time we live in to really experiment with your style? After all, we are going into another sale season…No one said I was a good influence when it comes to shopping.

Keep scrolling until the end for more inspiration and a few pieces you can buy!

And now, a little bit of real life application…

Feel like shopping?

You can browse the following pieces at The Outnet!