Oh Valentine’s Day.. you are so much more than just a rotating seasonal section in Target.

Beneath all of the giant stuffed bears, piles of red roses and boxes of chocolate lies the grim history of Valentine’s Day, originating as early as the 3rd century with the Christian martyr, Saint Valentine. The legend states that Saint Valentine was a devoted priest in Rome, spending most of his religious career performing secret marriages which were at the time, banned by Emperor Claudius II. The Emperor apparently wasn’t too fond of the distractions young men found themselves having in relation to their their marriages.. he thought a life of emotional detachment made better soldiers on the battlefield. As a result of this, Saint Valentine was arrested for his feats of courage and executed on the day we know, love, and sometimes dread ( ?!)—February 14th.

Centuries later, Valentine’s Day became largely popularized in the Victorian Era as lovers began to swap small notes of tender adoration, speciality goods branded with hearts, books & tins of candies. Everyone was freaking out about stationary… which is fair because, honestly, 200+ years later…same.

But it wasn’t until the 20th century that V-day took off. Once enterprises realized that they could prey on our common desire for love and affection, it was GAME OVER. But regardless of all the problems with mass consumerism that we face today, this holiday is still grounded in the same principles that Saint Valentine died for—which are rooted in love and connection. In our present day… a time that often feels loveless, Valentine’s Day serves as a day to honor not only romantic love, but also platonic love, familial love & self-love. New modes of love are celebrated as we continue to develop what this day means for us personally. Whether a Galentine’s dinner out or an indulgent night in to ourselves, a note of gratitude to a family member... there are so many ways we can feel love on a day like today.

When it comes to self-love, fashion demonstrates itself as a powerful tool for self-expression, empowerment and developing our confidence. Because after all, these many forms of love can’t thrive to their full potential without the most important love of all, self-love..

Over the past 4 years, Vie en Vert has curated different types of Valentines day collections, each reflecting different moods and feelings.

Which collection resonates with your personal style the most?