What we love this Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s is more than just about spreading love and taking time out to make loved ones feel special. It is also about sharing gifts, dressing up and getting in the spirit by looking fabulous.

For the naysayers, since the 14^th is falling on a Friday this year, you might as well join the party. Whether you plan to start celebrations early with colleagues at the office, enjoy a romantic dinner, make it a family affair, party with your girlfriends or have a movie night at home, we have a long list of hand-picked outfits and accessories to choose from.

At work



Let’s face it. Fridays at any office are pretend workdays. Celebrate with friends or a secret office romance by taking in a long lunch. Prêt wear at Nida Azwer, Sublime by Sara Shahid, Daaman, Sheep and Shamsha Hashwani will help you get in the mood; they are offering 50 shades of red in soft pleated and embroidered solids, hint of gold screen prints and spring prints. 

At dinner



A candlelit dinner followed by gifts deserves some effort. We recommend going big with the accessories in striking red or pretty pink with contrasting monochromatic separates, such as a graphic printed shirt or touch of lace. You can also reverse your look with statement black and gold spike loafers or oversized jewellery paired with one piece of red clothing. Kiran Fine Jewellery by Kiran Aman unveils her latest ‘Nau’ collection, which comprises select Onyx carved gold earrings and scripted beaten gold rings that will complement your look and also make the perfect Valentine’s gift, so start dropping hints now! The complete range is available at her new store at Ocean Mall, Karachi. Nida Azwer’s silk pink wrap around top is another favourite. You’ll find accessories galore at Pedro, Charles & Keith and QueenCleo.com, plus plenty of trendy tops to mix and match at Splash. 

At a party



For a formal night out, we had a hard time narrowing down the list. If you’re looking to be the fiery hot centre of attention, Deepak Perwani, Delphi and Sania Maskatiya offer glamorous tailored drapes and dresses. Our new luxury fusion pick is Nazli Akbar. Mango and Splash also showcase pure Western dresses in silks and chiffons. Remember, if you’re wearing all red, shift your accessories to black, nude, or metallic textures. If red isn’t your cup of tea, opt for a deeper burgundy or maroon ensemble, such as this sophisticated number by Maheen Karim.


At home



Undoubtedly, a number of hard working couples will end up spending a cosy night in, watching a movie, lighting candles and ordering takeout. There’s still no reason not to dress to impress. We love this luscious lips printed sweatshirt by Stella McCartney and Love ring by Sarah Chloe. Fortunately, you can find something very similar if you hurry on sale at 9Lines.shop.web.pk.

At a wedding



Chances are that you may end up celebrating someone else’s love as well this Valentine’s. If your plans include a wedding reception, few things are more stunning than a red sari. Opt for a Delphi crochet or Nida Azwer’s leather cut work sari. Additionally, you can go all out with breathtaking fusion formals at Ayesha Somaya, Nadia Farooqui, Maheen Karim, Delphi and Nazli Akbar. For a chic eastern look, Farah Talib Aziz offers exquisite silk net formals.

With family



For a wholesome Valentine’s Day family affair at home or out, opt for classic modern-day prêt wear. Pick from ‘Ari’ works at Fiction Concepts by Rabia Wahab, Sania Maskatiya distinctive thread works, Farah Talib Aziz’s new Classic Rose Collection comprising vintage cross-stitch embroideries on cotton net available at Ensemble Karachi and Nida Azwer artistic screen prints, all for timeless quality. Don’t forget to take some memorable family selfies! 

Published in The Express Tribune, February 12^th, 2014.