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The Color Cure: Why Valentine's is actually about Dopamine Dressing

  • Hanna Mordekhai
  • 12 minutes ago
  • 3 min read

By: Hanna Mordekhai



Valentine’s Day has undergone a major cultural shift over the past few years. February 14th used to be synonymous with impossible dinner reservations, CVS heart-shaped candies, and, for many, the ultimate single person's nightmare.

Whether it’s the influence of social media or a boom in consumerism, the holiday has transformed into an opportunity to embrace vibrant pinks and reds. After a tired, uninspired January when many abandon their resolutions, February often feels like a rut. Thankfully, brands have turned this holiday into a reason to reintroduce color into our wardrobes—whether you’re single or taken, or the weather is freezing or mild. Breaking the "unspoken rule" of dark, muted New York winter tones has been a breath of fresh air for me. Here are a few brands I’m loving that are (almost) curing my winter blues:


Parke

Parke is notorious for their holiday drops, and Valentine’s Day is arguably its frontrunner. Their V-day collection sold out in minutes, featuring their classic mock necks in seasonal hues, alongside clips, robes, and sweatpants.

While I couldn't snag the main collection, I found their red denim set to be a perfect alternative. It’s easy to mix and match or wear together as a bold, eye-catching statement. For February, I’ve paired it with my Black Alaïa Coeur bag to show I’m somewhere between "bitter" and "filled with love" this season. It’s also just a chic outfit for those not interested in method dressing.

Kujten

Needing no introduction, Kujten has been a winter staple. I’m currently wearing mine for the seventh day in a row; you truly won't regret this Parisian-born essential. Bringing a lightness and “swag” back into the cold months, this little bandana scarf has us in a chokehold (no pun intended).. While many opt for grey or white, their wide range of colors allows you to lean into a more unique aesthetic. Here are some pinks and reds I’m obsessed with:

Helsa

Exclusively on Revolve and Fwrd, model Elsa Hosk’s fashion line has been a pioneer of modern-day viral garments, including gowns, coats, and shoes. The brand has a general flirtiness to it, with pastels on jackets, bows all over gowns, and the drapiest of capes. I found some pieces I absolutely love for this month. Whether you’re throwing the bouquet or catching it, Helsa is perfect for Valentine’s Day dinners, bridesmaids, or even commuting to work. Highly recommend checking out Helsa this and every season!

J. Crew

J. Crew has slowly but surely become a staple brand for Gen Z, which is shocking because I can’t say that about any of the other brands that were my mom’s favorites growing up. They keep up with what we like in a slower, better quality, and classier way. J. Crew’s silhouettes will last you a lifetime, but they will never bore you with their impeccable design that is effortlessly attractive and cool.


Their Valentine’s Day edit is incredibly chic, with anything from suede pastels to cherries (a not-obvious but definitely cool Valentine’s Day trope). Don’t be afraid to style a cherry print slip dress in the winter with a pair of knee-high boots and tights. We are not bound to knits and denim! Here are some of my favorites:



Look, I know it’s cold, and the vibes are historically low in February, but dressing strictly in blacks and greys is just giving off the vibe of "I’ve accepted defeat." I refuse to believe we are bound to the boringness! Take advantage of the season, wear the red denim, and let’s all pretend spring is closer than it actually is.




  



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