Dear Avery,
I’m going on a date on Valentine’s Day for the first time this year — a fancy date. I definitely need to wear a dress but I’m not sure if it’s O.K. to wear Valentine’s colors like pink and red. Will I look like I’m trying too hard?

Not only is it acceptable to dress festively on Valentine’s Day, but I strongly encourage it. February 14th is the only day of the year when it is appropriate to look at feel like a lovebird. Unless you single, in which case, bummer. But you should wear pink anyway.

This does come with a caveat, however. While a less mature version of yourself — let’s be honest, myself — may have donned a pink plaid skirt and heart-printed knee socks on Valentine’s Days past like a cracked-out school girl high on candy hearts, this year should be different. You’re a grown-up lady now, you need to show some restraint.

But that’s not to say you have to forego all festive accouterments. Sneak some hearts into your ensemble, or wear that bright pink lipstick you bought on a whim. Treating yourself to a red sparkly manicure is also completely acceptable, and if you’ve been wanting to try some lavender hair extensions, now’s your chance. But when it comes down to it, we all know what’s really important: the dress. When your date sees you, the general reaction should be something along the lines of “Wow.”

Option No. 1

Nothing says Valentine’s Day like a red party dress. Though such an in-your-face color may not be for everyone, this is the one day a year where you should get over your fears and find the perfect red dress. By choosing one with a high neck, fitted bodice and full-skirt, you won’t feel like such a vixen, but the open back still adds a little sex appeal. And if you’re more well-endowed and typically steer clear of backless dresses, find one structured and tight enough that it’ll keep the girls in line.

Dress: Urban Outfitters, $39
Tights: Target, $8
Shoes: Aldo, $100

Option No. 2

If you’re looking for a more subtle option, opt for ladylike pink silk. Even though silk isn’t the more forgiving material, you’ll easily be able to hide all the chocolate truffle weight you’ve gained in an figure-flattering wrap dress. This dress offers just the right amount of cleavage with a not-too-short hemline, so you won’t look like a tramp at the dinner table. Just be wary of the color: unless you’re actually going for the “fully nude” look, don’t wear this dress if you’re pale. We’ve been over this.

Dress: Asos, $61.39
Shoes: Nine West, $55.99
Necklace: Forever 21, $1.80

Option No. 3

If you’re looking to mix things up a little, why not try something patterned? A heart print is a little too obvious, polka dots aren’t sophisticated enough and stripes are simply too boring for V Day. Floral, however, is just the ticket — especially in bright lavender, red and blue. No other girl at the restaurant is going to be rocking such a bold print, I can assure you. The structured fit combined with cutouts and an open back make this dress all around unexpected yet totally perfect. Pair it with jewel-toned pumps and keep the jewelry to a minimum — after all, your date may have a little velvet box bearing something sparkly with your name on it.

Dress: Nasty Gal, $38
Shoes: Aldo, $69.98
Earrings: Forever 21, $2.80

Photo courtesy of Facebook / Macy’s.