12 February 2024 , 10:24
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Valentine's Day is the one day of the year largely associated with the colour red. And understandably so - it represents love, passion, joy, confidence, desire... pretty much all the emotions that cause us to celebrate Valentine's in the first place. It's the colour of the roses most people receive on February 14 and the colour many people display in their chosen outfit for whatever they're doing to mark the occasion.
But what if a ruby tint doesn't quite suit your skin-tone or you simply don't like it? Just because scarlets and cherries and garnets and crimsons are worn by many, doesn't mean you have to. And thankfully, the high street has a plethora of options for those who want to leave the red at home and wow their partner - or besties, Valentine's can be about platonic love too - with a cool shade of blue or crisp white instead - including H&M.
READ MORE: I tried date night outfits at M&S, River Island and more to find the ultimate Valentine’s look
And with V-day just days away, traipsing into your nearest city and exploring the aisles and rails of your local store doesn't sound like the most relaxing of activities on a busy Saturday - thankfully, I visited my nearest branch so you don't have to to show you my favourite two-pieces, tops and dresses that will have you feeling the love on February 14 and, most importantly, aren't red.
Without further ado...
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Black draped jersey dress
This little black dress is a little different and is super flattering (Eve Rowlands)Not quite the conventional looking LBD (little black dress) but this gorgeous asymmetric garment is great for those who don't feel too comfortable in something fitted - bodycon style - but still want that waist cinching effect without a belt. I fell in love with this little dress as soon as I put my head through its slanted high neckline because it felt comfortable and a little sassy. The heavy jersey material is supportive enough to feel held in but doesn't show all your problem areas and the pleated neck adds a detail that'd simply be overshadowed by jewellery, meaning you only need some earrings and nice shoes to make this dress something special.
With a ruched side detailing, I was surprised by how flattering the dress was on me. Its mini A-line skirt feels as though you're wearing a skater dress (very fun) but it's the top half that transforms it into a gorgeous elegant wardrobe staple Coco Chanel herself would be proud of and one that's perfect for your swanky - or casual - Valentine's Day meal.
Costing £27.99, it comes in sizes XS to XXL and would be perfectly complimented by a pair of pointed stilletos or boots and some statement earrings.
Bouclé-knit bodycon dress
The boucle dress is super soft and is perfect for a bride-to-be (Eve Rowlands)For all you brides-to-be, I feel like this gorgeous, soft, comfortable and oyster coloured bouclé knit is a lovely dress to really get the most out of your pre-wedding era - especially if it's your last Valentine's as a Miss. Plus, with a partial see-through texture, it's bang on trend with textured white dress playing a major part in the SS24 catwalks.
The wide - or boat - neckline on this dress gives it an Old Hollywood feel with the fluted sleeves offering a more modern and bohemian feel. The midi length makes it perfect for the time of year (keeping your legs toasty in the winter weather - although it's best to wear skin-colour tights under it too).
What's great about this £34.99 dress is that it's comfy enough to lounge in for a cosy night in but can easily be dressed up with a bold heel, some lipstick and a bagette.
Coming in sizes XXS to XL, the 'bodycon' dress fitted my usual 8 on the larger size - which I was pleased with, because it meant I could easily move - should the Valentine's date call for an activity - and I wouldn't be conscious of the inevitable food baby after a three-course dinner at The Ivy.