Valentine’s Date Night Dazzle

by Kerry Andersen

Before Southwest Louisiana is decked out in Mardi Gras purple, green, and gold, we’ll be celebrating the season of love. Cupid’s go-to shade of red never goes out of style when dressing for a Valentine’s Day date with your loved one. When it comes to creating a unique and show-stopping Valentine’s Day look, Mia’s Downtown boutique owner Mia Mouton Rene offers up these style tips sure to make sure you feel fabulous on your special night out!

Leather, Lace, and Pearls
Nothing makes a sultry date night statement quite like leather. Pair a leather skirt or pants with a soft lace camisole or a sheer mesh shirt. The mixture of textures will rev up the romantic vibe. For jewelry, pearls win the day. They soften up any outfit and are universally flattering. These gems of the ocean are everywhere this season, accenting sweaters, pants, and purses. So mix, match, and slay!

Bows
The bow trend has grown up for 2025. This fun detail from girlhood is now glamorous, polished, and oh so feminine. Forget those saccharin heart sweaters and opt for fashionable bow details in pink or red instead. You’ll find them on tops, tied as an accent on purses, punctuating a dramatic dress hemline, and putting a sophisticated pop on the back of a pair of pumps. Even blue jeans and vests have bows in all sizes. Or tie one on for a fashion win!

The Red Dress
Yes, the little red dress is always a winner for a romantic night out, but try reaching for a style that is a bit more edgy. The modern red dress is classy in the front but a party in the back, featuring a plunging v silhouette. Even a short dress can be made classy yet sexy.

Animal Print
There are a few universal fashion rules, including the fact that animal print never goes out of style! Mia’s stands firm that animal print, especially leopard, is a neutral that can be paired with anything. Try wearing leopard pants or a skirt paired with a bright red or soft pink blouse. A pump or purse in red leather pairs well with cheetah or leopard for a sultry pop of color.

Playful Jumpsuits
For a modern twist, a sleek jumpsuit is a great alternative to a dress. Choose one in velvet or satin for an upscale look paired with a cinched waist to highlight your figure. Mia’s likes to pair a corseted denim jumpsuit with black lace underneath for a sexy peek-a-boo. Pair it with black boots and a plush bag for a real wow moment.

Mia’s Downtown is located at 312 Pujo St. in Lake Charles and carries sizes 0-24. Shop online at www.miasdowntown.com or call 337.508.2397 to book a private Sip & Shop appointment. Open Tuesday through Friday 10:30am – 6pm, Saturday 11am-4pm. Closed Sunday/Monday.

Photos courtesty of Mia’s Downtown