EXPERIMENTAL ACCESSORIZATION IS THE KEY TO THIS YEAR’S GALENTINE’S
BY LAUREN STIDHAM ILLUSTRATION BY KENDALL WIFF
At first glance, a Galentine’s party often carries the negative connotation of being single on Valentine’s Day. However, anyone participating in this celebration knows this invitation is something far from a glum affair. Spending this occasion in the company of those you have the most fun with calls for the appropriate attire.
Whether it's a living room excursion or reservations to fine dining, there is no such thing as overdressing for this event. Mingling fun, flirtatious, and extravagant is the key to this year’s Galentine’s lookbook.
Achieving this perfect amalgamation begins with the accessories. Tights, an accessory perpetually in wardrobes spanning decades, can be the first step in perfecting a uniquely classy Galentine’s outfit. Choose a pair of red or pink tights, adorned with either unique patterns of lace or a traditional plain mesh, to perfect your outfit.
Funky scarves are another method of accessorization that adds the glamor and spunk these parties are looking for. Adding a velvet, striped, or patterned scarf elongates the silhouette and provides a centerpiece that revitalizes the look. Choosing a scarf that sticks to the traditional colors of Valentine’s provides a snappy adornment that keeps you on theme with any outfit variation. Styling this addition with a relaxed bun or updo and a mini skirt proves to be the ideal approach to achieving a cool girl, pop star-esque ensemble.
When looking for color palettes, sticking to the customary deep reds and soft pinks will suffice, but alternate choices can elevate the usual Galentine’s color scheme. Purple, an often inconsequential contender in the lineup, is a refreshing alternate for your outfit this year. It’s fun, flirty, and spunky, making it the perfect frontrunner this upcoming Galentine’s. Magenta is another addition to the palette that adds a level of maturity and allure in comparison to the light pinks most regularly worn.
A sustainable option is taking a black or white solid outfit already in your closet and accessorizing with the colored tights or scarves previously mentioned. This option proves to be a classy and interestingly minimalist choice for this occasion.
Mixing or clashing colors that are atypical during this season is one way to show a sense of individuality amidst the long-standing traditional palette. Greens, golds, and denim all accentuate the warm tones of the pinks and purples that are the focal point of the outfit. Adding patterns and prints, such as a fur cheetah coat or any variation of stripes, favors those who prefer a sense of maximalism in their aesthetic.
Finally, a choice that goes without saying: sparkles. Glitter, beads, and sequins are essential if you are leaning into the celebratory side of this holiday. Sporting any article that sparkles is perfect for going out, throwing a party, or planning to document the night on someone’s digital camera.
As for makeup, Galentine’s is the perfect opportunity to try something you haven't attempted beforehand. The time to experiment or step outside of your comfort zone is in the company of your dearest friends, making this the perfect occasion. Overdoing your blush, adding exuberant amounts of glitter to your eyeshadow or a dramatic wing will only escalate your getup. Whether you want to feel girly or grunge, overdoing it is not a concept this Galentine’s.
Whether you choose a look that's mix and match or monochromatic, any combination of pieces that satisfies your lookbook preferences is in this Galentine’s. Accessorizing is the ideal strategy that enables you to conform each outfit to your own personal flair.
While it's essential your outfit thrives in the department of individuality, it's impossible to forget that Galentine’s serves as an unwavering reminder of the people who make you feel like you belong.
