Due to my quickly approaching birthday, this was originally going to be a retail therapy post on ways to treat yourself on your big day, but I didn't want to exclude anybody that wasn't fortunate enough to be born under the Aquarius sign. So, I chose the closest holiday: Valentine's Day. I would like to apologize to all of the single girls who just cringed in their chair upon reading those two words. I promise this isn't a step-by-step guide on where to buy your valentines. Any unavailable girls shouldn't feel as though this post isn't directed towards them, either. Just because you have a man doesn't mean you aren't allowed to treat yourself to a mini shopping spree.

In this dreary weather, I find that nothing perks me up more than a new purchase. It's unhealthy, yes, but you know what they say: shopping is cheaper than a therapist. Sometimes all it takes is a yearbook-thick magazine dropped off on my door step by the Fed Ex man to cheer me up. And with spring around the corner, I thought feminine colors and girly trinkets would be the best way to embrace your inner flower child. I've never been one for Valentine's Day, but there's just something about this time of year that really makes me love pink. I'm sorry if you're a Rooney Mara type and resist any shade of color, but even Rooney has to embrace a red Valentino dress every once in a while.



1. Circle frame sunglasses, The Row
The Olsen sisters wear some of the best sunglasses around, so it's no surprise that their own line is all things retro and chic. 

2. Debbie ballet flats, Witchery 
Every girl needs a pair of red flats. 

3. Zip based handheld bag, ASOS
I feel like this bag has a heavy Celine influence, and I do not mind at all. It's small size makes it not only compact, but absolutely adorable. 

4. Smith's Rosebud lip balm
Good for getting your lips date ready or saving them from the torcherous winter air. 

5. Calvin Klein Spring 2012
Embrace your inner Lara Stone by picking up a nude spaghetti strap dress. There's something so sexy about being simple. 

6. Chloé eau de parfum, Saks
Undoubtedly the longest lasting perfume that I own. It also doesn't hurt that the bottle is the perfect decorative accessory for your vanity. 

7. Vogue archive
This will likely put a dent in your wallet, but it's probably worth it. Maybe. If you're like me and you have to put your tuition costs over your love for Vogue, try searching for your favorite vintage magazines on eBay. 

8. Christian Dior "Oui" ring and gold bunny ears ring, ASOS
One day I will own the Christian Dior "Oui" ring, but in the mean time I'll have to settle for other cutesy jewelry pieces. The latter reminds me of something that either Marc Jacobs would put out or a piece of jewelry I'd see on a girl in middle school, but I adore it. Sorry I'm not sorry. 

9. Polka dot umbrella, Barneys
Because you should look cute when you have to fight the rain. 

10. Norma Kamali ruched mesh swimsuit, Net-A-Porter
Get ahead of the curve and purchase your swimsuit a couple of months early to avoid having to go through racks of picked over separates. 

11. Clutch, Jason Wu for Target
I truly cannot stop obsessing over Jason Wu's anticipated collection for Target, and I'm judging anybody who hasn't already planned their 6am shopping mission. This classic clutch also comes in the form of a satchel, and I can guarantee that it will be in my hands come February. 

If you're of a different gender and you've somehow found yourself reading this, please use it as a reference tool when picking something out for your lady or your best girl friend. Girls, go ahead and pick yourself up something nice this year. You deserve it. 

Check Out More:

How To Have A Vogue Weekend, Valentine's Day.

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