While matching outfits with your SO (whether it be your better half or your best friend), may be bordering on corny, knowing how to complement each other’s tastes in every type of date is cute in our book. And no, we don’t mean just wearing tops in the same color. Take some cues from celebrity stylist Ryuji Shiomitsu and Cosmopolitan Philippines editor-in-chief Jillian Q. Gatcheco. Below, they take the lead in helping you pull off the perfect look on that date (or “anti-date,” for some), without having to wear something that’ll fizzle out.
Preferring to take the “me and you, just us two,” route means you still want to celebrate Valentine’s minus the noise. Opt for a pared down look by balancing the casual vibe of soft knits and integrating pieces that up the style ante.
Ryuji emphasizes the value of accessorizing whenever you want to look like you made an effort to dress up. For the girls, he says, “Wearing trusty denims with a red striped top packs a punch when you change up your look with the right accessories—whether it’s a pair of clear specs, cute earrings, and funky platform sneaks, it’s all about getting the right mix to give a casual outfit some statement.”
For the guys, on the other hand, make it a point to mix your basics with a trendy piece: “A gray sweater will go a long way, because it’s smart and casual at the same time,” he says. “These muted-toned plaid trousers are sure to give this boy-next-door outfit a preppy pgrade.”
Nothing says sexy and sophisticated than an outfit that’s punctuated with the right kind of black. From a romantic dinner to spending after-hours at the club, this outfit is sure to give you a night for the books. Ryuji shares what he feels is date-worthy for the guy’s outfit: “All-black everything. You can never go wrong with black. Subtle touches of leather and denim make this night out-ready.”
For the girls, Jillian injects a touch of sass by pairing a trusty blazer with a sexy leopard-printed slip dress. “This look screams ‘I have a hot date tonight!’ The black blazer makes it office-appropriate in the a.m., but as soon as you clock out and remove that jacket, the party really starts.” Add a mini hat box bag for a more feminine but definitely functional oomph.
If you’re planning to cozy up and stay in, a comfortable ensemble is key. How to look like you didn’t just roll out of bed? Try a soft cropped top with relaxed palazzos. “Easy-to-wear basics in matching tonal colors give these co-ords a fun and fresh look,” says Ryuji. “Go ahead and match them with cute and fluffy slip-ons for a ready-to-bed style minus the lazy look.”
Jillian can’t agree more: “How cute are those slippers? This look is made for those who’d rather steer clear of the city traffic. A lounge-y outfit calls for some cuddles on that sofa, as you chill in style with your date in the company of your fave show or movie. Popcorn, optional.”
The athleisure trend is a look that’s easy to cop especially if you and your beau are into spending your quality time out and about. Refine a rugged get-up by choosing muted colors instead of bright and blaring ones. According to Ryuji, “sporty basics in neutral colors give off a fresh daytime feel that’s great for afternoon walks in the park or going for a run around the city.” His advice? “Complete this combo with your favorite sneakers or trainers for an appropriate dash to the finish line.”
Jillian on the other hand, highlights the balance of this outfit’s elements: “I love how the mesh jacket offsets the sexiness of the pleather bodysuit and skirt. Flatform heels complete the look; this OOTD is comfortable, sexy, and shows just the right amount of skin.”
If you want to leave heads turning and get double-taps on your IG post, then try this outfit. “The ‘unfollow’ text on this sweater definitely caught my eye because TBH, what’s the best measure of not liking people nowadays? Unfollowing them on social media!” Jillian says. “This piece will surely appeal to the cheeky lot who are done with the sap and mush of this commercialized holiday.”
Ryuji’s pick, on the other hand, also has its own share of fun: “I love that this look is simple, chic, and totally unexpected. The leopard print gives the statement shirt a casual air of charm. Match it with sneakers to achieve a dressy yet casual day-to-day feel. Anyone would be game to wear this well beyond Valentine’s Day.”
Coordinating looks with your BF or your BFF is another way to show you’re solid or going strong, and you’ll love the outfits you’ll come up with especially once you’ve nailed down the elements that appeal to both your style personalities. To stay trendy while taking those basics further, shop and plan your outfits together. Check out Forever 21, which has various collections and pieces you can mix and match to build a look that’s entirely you. If you find items marked “Cosmo Fashion Crush,” they’re the ones we featured here!
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