Dress For Love

So you managed to get a date for Valentine's Day - now what? Whether you're going on a daytime picnic or out for a romantic dinner, here's what to wear.

BY DAY

• Shoes: Opt for cute ballet flats - you don't want to be tripping every five seconds walking around a park towards your picnic spot. • Dress: Go for a fun, summery sundress in soft pastel such as lilac, or vibrant summer colours like tangerine or lemon yellow. Don't go too short, as you want to be able to sit and lie down without worrying about exposing yourself. Opt for soft textures such as cotton and lace. • Heart shapes: Valentine's Day just wouldn't be the same without something heart-shaped. But instead of cheap chocolates wrapped in red cellophane, you can incorporate stylish heart shapes into your outfit. Try understated heart-shaped studs, which will add a touch of sparkle to your outfit without being kitsch or overwhelming. Alternatively, heart-shaped cutouts look great on the backs of casual tees or sundresses. • Red: No Valentine's Day outfit is complete without a splash of red. For daytime, go for a subtle 'pop' of this hot hue. Paint your toenails red if you're wearing sandals, or take a red cardigan along for when nighttime sets in, and you and your date are still gazing into each other's eyes... You can also incorporate red using the colour-blocking trend, which is still red-hot this season. • Fragrance: You want a scent that is light and fresh. Think: floral, sea-breeze, vanilla, citrus or lemongrass. • Skin and makeup: Keep your makeup to a minimum. Get glowing summer skin by exfoliating the night before, and applying a tinted moisturiser and bronzer to your collarbones and cheeks. Add some coral blush, a dash of pink lip-gloss and a bit of mascara, and you're good to go. • Hair: A no-fuss do like a ponytail or loose waves will round off your outfit perfectly, for a sexy, laid-back look. • Extra props: Take a warm blanket with you. Chances are your guy will have forgotten, and what could be more romantic than cuddling up to make out?

BY NIGHT

Make the most of the gorgeous weather and grab every opportunity to eat outside with these colourful accessories.

Author: Lize Kay