It's nearing the end of January, which means that Valentine's Day is right around the corner. For some, this means a cute date with a boyfriend or girlfriend featuring a nice dinner and special guest appearances from Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams. Throughout the years, however, I have found that an overwhelming number of individuals have not and will not be partaking in such festivities. In past years, I have heard a nonstop buzz of negativity surrounding V-day and all that goes along with the occasion. People from all over the world have declared themselves, proud or not, as solo entities; they have ditched the holiday and all its lighthearted glory.
As a lover of fun and fashion, this is very saddening to me. Date or not, time and time again Valentine's Day has presented to me the opportunity to get together with friends, dress up, go out and appreciate the love that we have for one another. The holiday's slow demise is so sad that I'm determined to convince the naysayers that it must go on. From all red everything to a simple dinner date with friends, I'm breaking down some of the ways to make the best of Valentine's Day without throwing in the towel, queuing the lower-lip pout and hating the world for 24 hours.
Dress Up
Valentine's Day will only be special if you commit to making it that way. Make a pact with your girls that you'll all plan to look nice. Don't know what to wear? Dresses and heels are always a fun place to start. Peplum tops and full dresses are all the rage this year, and are perfect for all sorts of body types. Sweetheart necklines are also perfect for nice and or romantic occasions because of their beautifully feminine cuts. Plus, with a name like that, who wouldn't want try one out for V-day?
Dinner Dates
Whether you're with your beau or with a group of your favorite beauties, make reservations at a nice place, put away those cell phones and talk the night away. Many restaurants have Valentine's Day themes and specials, and if you're in good company, even the cheesiest of decorations will add to the fun-filled day.
Dye Your Hair Pink!
Just kidding, please don't do that. Just appreciate the fact that you could, then move on. Good life choices.
Cupcakes
Not in the mood to go out, but still want to take part in some of the fun V-day festivities? Pull out your cupcake tray and bake away! It's a great way to bond with friends and goes perfectly with my next suggestion. Not in the mood to go out orto bake? Get some from a bakery or supermarket during the day to share with friends on Valentine's night.
Watch Movies
Sappy, scary, thrilling, funny or whatever your taste may be, movie nights are a win-win almost every time. Oh, and don't forget to pig out on ice cream too - as much as you want, no regrets, because it's Valentine's Day. Tell me you Debbie Downer's aren't feeling that idea.
Girl's Night Out
Hit the club or go to a fun concert and dance and sing the night away with your beau or close friends. Even better - take a couple of hints from the suggestions above. Dress up, dine out and then make your way out.
Within no time, your Valentine's Day agenda will be full and by the end of the night you'll be counting down the days until you're surrounded by pink balloons and sequins all over again.
Contact Jessie Christian at jchrist7@nd.edu
