Date Night or Girls' Night? Styling Romance Reimagined

It's that time of year again, and we're all scrambling to put together our dreamiest outfits for Valentine's. But adding a touch of romance to your wardrobe isn't just for February 14th. Here at Joe Browns, we adore putting together lovestruck looks all year round, from dazzling date night outfits to girls' night glam. So, just in time for Valentine's (and Galentine's) day, here are our tips for swoon-worthy style.

We often gravitate toward red for V-day, but let's branch out a little! For soft, romantic vibes, gentle pastels create such a dreamy aesthetic. Think fresh greens, blush pinks and baby blues. 

For a Galentine’s girls' night, why not choose to coordinate by all wearing the same romantic colour? For girl power, pink is an obvious choice, but buttery yellow or elegant periwinkle are also wonderful options, as these colours are known to symbolise friendship. Our guide to wearing colours with confidence can help you.

We love loose pieces for a lovey-dovey look. While figure-hugging clothes certainly have their place in romance, there’s something so wonderful about feeling flowing, silky fabrics swish around your body. Picture strolling on a date, your skirt swaying, or the wind gently tousling your shirt frills. You’ll feel just like a romance novel heroine!

This Valentine’s, we’re swept up in Regency romance, thanks to the new Wuthering Heights movie and the latest season of Bridgerton. To nod to the classic romantic styles, explore floaty tea dresses and maxi frocks with empire waistlines or flowing blouses with lace and embroidery. 

These are perfect daytime looks for romantic lunches and ladies’ brunches. Our guide to the romantic style trend can offer more ideas.

Florals are an emblem of romance, so floral patterning and embroidery are perfect for a Valentine’s look. Classic roses never fail, but there are other flowers that make us feel the love, too. Try sunflowers for positivity and bright energy, or delicate daisy styles for a girlish outfit.

Casual doesn’t have to mean low in romance. Take the classic ‘Jeans and a Nice Top look’ -  a go-to Galentine’s dress code. Pair your jeans with a loose, silky blouse for a soft, sensual look. Accessories like a scarf or elegant earrings can further elevate the romance, while brightly coloured pumps make the whole thing pop.

Valentine’s might make us feel warm inside, but it takes place during the coldest season. That’s why we love leaning into knitwear styles and the inherent romance of cosy, cuddly looks. Wrap a snug longline cardigan around your Valentine’s dress, or choose a knitted top for a preppy Galentine’s style. Nothing says ‘love’ like feeling snug. See our knitwear layering guide for styling tips.

It doesn’t have to be all soft fabrics and pastels. True romance lies in contrast, in the bringing together of two worlds. Perhaps the rugged style of some distressed denim would work well with your classically romantic pieces? You could pair a flowing dress with cowboy boots or a floral blouse with a leather jacket for a striking statement. Think of it as the clothing equivalent of a rough-and-ready antihero courting a delicate and demure heroine.

No romantic look is complete without the right accents. Accessories are the "love notes" of your outfit - they tell a story in the details.

• Jewellery: Opt for dainty gold chains or vintage-inspired lockets to lean into that Regency feel. If you’re heading out with the girls, statement heart-shaped hoops add a cheeky, high-energy vibe.

• The Bag: For a dinner date, a small velvet clutch feels luxurious and intimate. For a busy Galentine’s brunch, a structured crossbody in a bold berry hue keeps you hands-free for those inevitable group selfies.

• Footwear: If you aren't feeling the "edge" of leather boots, try a classic Mary Jane with a block heel. It’s the perfect middle ground between "dressed up" and "comfortable enough to dance in."