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What to wear on Valentine's Day

08 February, 2012 06:00:00 Contributor

Photo ©: Image Source IS2 - Fotolia.com

Not sure what to wear for your date this Valentine's Day? Here are some tips from the minds of men...

February is the month to celebrate love and as Valentine’s Day approaches, you may have already started to think about how to look your best for that special someone in your life.

But before you go and splurge on an outfit hot off the runway, Danelle Milward, Marketing Director of Captive8, a fashion house catering for women’s plus-size clothing, suggests you take stock of what men really think makes a woman look beautiful.

“If you really want to dress to impress then keep it real,” says Milward. “High-waisted pants and jump-suits may bring compliments from your friends, but men prefer you to look like yourselves rather than a wanna-be model and socialite. Although not many men may be up to speed on the latest fashion trends, they are visual creatures and know what clothes look good on you.”

Milward suggests these tips for looking your best:

Keep it feminine

Men like women to look feminine, so make sure your outfit of choice projects that. A dress is the easiest way to look like a lady, but pay attention to the fabric, too. Men are attracted to the softness of a woman so accentuate this with soft flowing fabrics as opposed to stiff ones.

Keep it curvy

Men want to see your figure. So whether you are self-conscious and want to hide in a loose-fitting outfit or whether you are skinny enough to be able to pull it off and still look slim, men simply think you are wearing a bag.

Your outfit needs to be fitted and figure hugging. Research has shown that the most attractive body shape to a man is the hour glass, so make sure your outfit either hugs you in the waist or under the bust. This way you can achieve that perfect silhouette.

Keep it classy

Exposing just the right amount of skin is essential to achieving ultimate elegance and attractiveness. Miniskirts and low-cut tops are not of interest to men who are looking for or are in a long term relationship. Instead, they prefer v-necks and rounded necklines that expose the collar bone, while knee-length skirts show off just enough leg.

Keep it clichéd

Studies have shown that colour is an important factor to men and they associate deep red with passion, so even though you may be tempted to steer away from the typical Valentine’s colour you might want to reconsider embracing it. Surveys also show that men love the little black dress and find it very elegant on a woman. But if you are bored of the clichés then stick to the deeper shades, as men are put off by bright colours and light pinks that make you look like a little girl.

Keep it natural

When it comes to makeup and hair, do not overdo it. The guy sitting across the table from you does not want to stare at a painted doll, so don’t plaster on the makeup. Instead use it simply to enhance your natural features. And if you are unsure what to do with your hair, keep it down. Men love the thought of being able to touch your soft hair.

Keep it classic

When it comes to shoes, jewellery and other accessories, less is more. A simple heel with an almond shaped toe is far more attractive to men than a wedge or gladiator shoe, while too much jewellery can make you seem far too adorned.

"When dressing up for a special occasion, women can end up looking like they are trying too hard. If you stick to these tips when planning your perfect outfit, not only will you feel comfortable and therefore exude confidence, that special person in your life will find you the most attractive woman of the night. Your outer beauty will be at its optimum and your inner beauty will shine through,” concludes Milward.

For more information, visit www.captive8.co.za or contact 021 555 4282