It’s that time of year again when students are either overjoyed or bathing in hatred over Valentine’s Day. There is a lot of pressure to look your best this holiday for that dinner with the cutie from Kennedy or the boy from Blue Wall. Whether you’re going on a date or spending some time with Ben & Jerry, here are some pointers on what to wear in case you run into that special someone. Don’t think this is just for girls to read, boys need some help too.

Don’t Be Cliché

Although we automatically think of red and pink, that does not mean we should be a poster for the holiday. Instead of pulling out those red and pink dresses, pick an unexpected color or a fun print that you haven’t worn in awhile, such as floral or a dark green. If you really feel the need to wear those Valentine’s colors, use them as accessories. A red clutch or pink earrings can add a punch of color. Keep them in moderation so you aren’t screaming out that you love Feb. 14.

Emphasize Your Goods

Whether it be your favorite cheetah flats or your tiny waist, emphasize the best part of yourself. If you are dying to wear those cheetah flats for instance, then tone down the rest of your outfit by wearing neutrals like black or brown and keep the focus on the shoes. That tiny waist shouldn’t go unnoticed. Wear a top or dress that cinches at the waist, if it doesn’t, pair it with a belt. It’s all about making your best features or items stand out. Just don’t overdo it. Simply emphasize the goods.

Sniff Sniff…

Boys, this is where you come into play. Although it might seem easy for a guy to get ready, some may over think how they look. The most important step – shower. As long as you shower, shave, smell good and your hair isn’t a total mess, you’re golden. Cologne is a nice touch so two spritz is enough to last through the night without it being overwhelming for your date.

Menswear

Rule #1: wear a belt. Saggy pants are not a turn-on and never will be, so spare the sight for your date and wear a belt. Pair your belt with a nice pair of dark jeans. They are casual and flattering on anyone. Guys are lucky enough to have pretty simple clothing, so a nice button down or sweater will pair nicely with the jeans. Just make sure it doesn’t have a tiger or Ed Hardy logo on it or she will most likely have an “emergency phone call” during dinner. To finish the ensemble, wear a nice pair of casual dress shoes. No need to break out the black, shiny prom shoes, just a pair of nice brown ones that aren’t the sneakers you walk to class in everyday.

Ditch the White

White can be a flattering color at times, but not on everyone’s skin tone. Plus, white is the easiest color to ruin at dinner. Boys tend to be very messy with food so this is geared towards them. So girls go ahead and break out that white tank with ruffles to show off your arms. Back to you boys, if you want to avoid the huge spaghetti stain and embarrassment of possibly getting teased by your date, ditch the white.

Simple Is Better

The best advice to remember is to keep it simple. A pair of dark jeans, a cute top and some boots or heels will go a long way. Even a simple dress and tights with jewelry will make him say, “Wow!” In a Facebook poll, people were asked what they would want their date to wear. Almost everyone agreed with a good pair of dark jeans and almost all the males said “nothing.” Stick to the first answer.

The key things to keep in mind when dressing to impress for your special Valentine (or your roommate) is to keep it simple. They will most likely think you look great no matter what but either way, look your best. Keep it simple, keep up that confidence and keep yourself smelling good. Don’t stress, it’s only one day out of the year, but who says you should sacrifice fashion?

Tori Hall can be reached at [email protected].