Valentine’s Day is all about love, but let’s be real: some gifts just don’t say “I adore you” the way they used to! While romancenever goes out of style, it’s easy for certain Valentine’s Day gifts to feel more like a last-minute grabthan a compassionate, heartfelt expression of love.
If you want to impress your special someone this Valentine's Day, it’s time to retire these 7 “outdated” and overdone gifts that scream predictable.
The Glorious Studio / PEXELS
Now don’t get me wrong – heart-shaped jewelry can be super cute, but oftentimes, it can feel a little cheesy and predictable for Valentine’s Day.
Instead, consider your Valentine’s personal interests and search for some jewelry that way. Whether it’s sports, animals, or astrology, you’ll surely be able to find something that suits them more closely.Hassan Ouajbir / PEXELS
Those big teddies – or even just the cheap stuffed animals from the drugstore – are not practical whatsoever and tend to collect dust. Unless you know of a very specific plush that your Valentine's been wanting, it’s okay to skip the stuffed animals.
Picjumbo / PEXELS
While red roses can be a romantic gesture, there are so many other flowers to consider. Roses are simply generic AF and very expected – instead, get to the bottom of what your Valentine’s favorite flower is and run with that! From lilies to mums, you could even create your own bouquet with just a little extra effort.
Ksenia Chernaya / PEXELS
The same idea goes for fake plants. Why invest in a fake plant when a real one can be so much more meaningful? This way, every time your Valentine goes to water the plant you gave them, they’ll be thinking of you. ❤️
Matching t-shirts, mugs, socks, and the like are honestly pretty cringeworthy, unless you’re really into them. Your Valentine will definitely appreciate a unique gift a lot more this year.
Amazon
Cheap chocolates are good for a last-minute gift, but if you want your gift to feel special to your Valentine, please take the extra time (and money!) to opt for a fancier box. They’ll look better and taste better.
Jill Wellington / PEXELS
All of this goes to say that anything impersonal makes a cliche and outdated Valentine’s Day gift. You don’t even have to go insanely above and beyond for your date this year – just a little extra consideration will definitely make them feel loved.
Subscribe to our newsletter for more lifestyle advice!
Just like we come to AMC for magic, we come to the Oscars for the awards — and the red carpet looks. The best dressed stars at the 2025 Oscars include all our favorite stars with different colors, textures, and silhouettes galore. But one thing that unites them all? They look incredible.
Monica Schipper/Getty Images
A Complete Unknown's Elle Fanning looks classy in a black and white Givenchy dress — which is the first red carpet look after Sarah Burton's appointment as creative director.
Monica Schipper/Getty Images
Ariana Grande wears a beautiful sculpted Schiaparelli gown that's equal parts whimsical and classy.
Mike Coppola/Getty Images
Speaking of all things Wicked, Cynthia Erivo goes big with a green velvet Louis Vuitton gown we'll be talking about forever.
Mike Coppola/Getty Images
Selena Gomez stuns at the 2025 Oscars in a glam, nude Ralph Lauren gown that's totally giving old Hollywood.
Mike Coppola/Getty Images
Demi Moore is a shining star — just like her jeweled Armani Privé red carpet look.
Timothée Chalamet proves butter yellow isn't going anywhere a monochromatic Givenchy look.
Savion Washington/Getty Images
Monica Barbaro totally stands out in a textured and rosy gown by Dior.
Mike Coppola/Getty Images
Miley Cyrus is bringing serious edge to the 2025 Oscars with a black Alexander McQueen gown and bleached eyebrows.
Monica Schipper/Getty Images
Mikey Madison stuns in a black and pink Dior ensemble with a bow detail.
Savion Washington/Getty Images
Halle Berry literally shines in a Christian Siriano that's giving "Mirrorball" by Taylor Swift.
Savion Washington/Getty Images
Rachel Zegler wore a Dior gown to the 2025 Oscar red carpet with a beautiful corset and pearl detail.
Kevin Winter/Getty Images
During the Oscars intro, Ariana Grande changed into a ruby-red dress Dorothy would totally approve of. I literally jumped to my feet.
Who were your picks for the best dressed on the 2025 Oscars red carpet? Let us know in the comments!
Whether you're celebrating with your significant other for the first time or the tenth, you've probably already given some thought to your Valentine's Day dinner ideas. You'll be hungry by the time the sun sets, whether you've spent the whole day together, or you've just come back from the best date night ever. These recipes are perfect for ending the night on a delicious note or they can serve as your date night — cooking together is a super fun way to spend your time.
You can show your favorite valentine love with DIY Valentine's gifts, pink cocktails, fruit salad, or you can whip up a fancy-schmancy (and romantic) dinner. You can try the same recipe until it's just right, or experiment with a different pick every night of February. No matter what your favorite cuisine is, there's something for everyone.
Here are our favorite Valentine's Day dinner ideas for a date night meal to remember.
A good Valentine's Day dinner is anything that is delicious and romantic, and that will change for every couple (or if you're alone!). V Day is always a good excuse to cook up a steak if you and your partner eat meat, but pasta or seafood are also great ideas. Or go for a surf and turf dinner that incorporates all of them. You can also add aphrodisiacs into the menu, but whatever you pick, don't forget dessert!
Your Valentine's Day menu is totally up to you and your partners' tastes. You can check out what's local to your area if you want to have a menu that reflects this time of year in your state. In terms of courses, you can opt for dinner and dessert or go all out with an appetizer, entrée, drinks, and dessert.
Here are some popular Valentine's Day foods you can consider making:
Prepare to swoon over this simple sous vide steak. Pair it with a baked potato and steamed veg. (via Brit + Co)
Nothing says high class quite like a well-cooked steak. Take it from the pros and cook it medium-rare for the most intense flavor. We love the classic steak and baked potato combo, but feel free to shake things up with a different side. (via Brit + Co)
Image via Half Baked Harvest
You know we love vodka cocktails, so we are all about some vodka pasta! It's a 30-minute recipe topped with basil pesto and loads of your favorite cheese and you can add some red pepper flakes for some extra spice if you want. Swap the vodka for broth or water if you don't want to cook with alcohol. It'll taste just as good! (via Brit + Co)
For charcuterie board fans or those of us who'd rather much on apps than have a full-blown dinner, these poke bites are cute, delicious, and have us dreaming of summer. Pickled ginger, avocado, and red onion take this recipe to a new level. Yum! (via Brit + Co)
A soup that's delicious *and* features veggies, cheese, and pasta all in one? Count us in. Just put everything in your slow cooker and let it come together while you finish getting ready. (via Brit + Co)
This one-pot wonder is great for any day of the week. Salmon, potatoes, olives, and green beans (along with some other delicious ingredients) come together to create a flavorful combo that you'll daydream about until you can eat it again. (via Brit + Co)
A healthy, colorful dish like this butternut squash recipe makes for a great dinner recipe for vegetarians and carnivores alike. Plus it makes for an awesome winter comfort food. (via Brit + Co)
Air fryer salmon is a great Valentine's Day dinner idea for anyone who works long hours and doesn't want to spend hours upon hours in the kitchen. Plus it's healthier than your other frying options! Not a fan of salmon? Try chicken or potatoes for other yummy options. (via Brit + Co)
This recipe from Rachael Ray has some of the most interesting and captivating flavors we've tasted in a long time, and with meat, fruit, dairy, and starches, you're eating a lot of the food groups. (via Brit + Co)
All you need for this delicious date night recipe is sausage, canned tomatoes, and pasta. And don't forget your favorite cheese, of course. This is a great option for having a fancy dinner at the dining table or curling up on the couch for a romantic movie. (via Brit + Co)
Image via SocietySocial and QueenBrieCLT/Photography Demi Mabry
There's something so sophisticated and stylish about having a charcuterie board anytime of year, but especially on Valentine's Day. You can make it a red, pink, and white color scheme with fruit, dried flowers, and cheese, or try your hand at a breakfast-for-dinner board with heart-shaped pancakes, berries, and chocolate. (Via Brit + Co)
Quick, easy, and delicious, what's not to love about this chicken recipe?! Tomato-y, buttery chicken goes great with flavorful naan and white rice. Sprinkle with cilantro before you serve. (via Brit + Co)
If you're avoiding regular pasta, try zucchini noodles instead of regular for a healthy take on your favorite dishes. Serve with pesto, olive oil and vinegar dressing, or Alfredo sauce to make a creamy pasta. (via Brit + Co)
Photo via Half Baked Harvest
This dish might be geared for summer picnics, but it will also make a great option for your winter nights in. Change up the spices and seasonings depending on what your favorite flavors are, or make a couple different mixes and try them all! (via Brit + Co)
Photo via Half Baked Harvest
Okay so donuts don't technically count as an option for dinner but you can definitely make them for dessert! (Especially if you've already had your fill of lobster tails or pasta). You can even add some espresso to the chocolate glaze for a mocha taste. (via Brit + Co)
Not only does sushi make for a yummy Valentine's Day dinner for you and your S.O. but the actual construction of the sushi sounds just as great! Swap regular rice for some DIY cauliflower rice but feel free to keep your favorite fillings and sauces. (via Brit + Co)
Another great option for a smaller, finger food dinner, stuffed avocados make for a tasty and filling dish. You can also leave out the shrimp to make this an easy meat-free recipe. (via Brit + Co)
We're huge fans of ramen noodle meals and know this is one Valentine's Day dinner idea that can't be topped. Call us biased, but you'll find it hard not to be once you get a taste of this caramelized blend of pork, open face-egg, and jalapenos. (via Brit + Co)
Get your hands messy with this appetizing and flavorful recipe! With ingredients like tomato paste, garlic cloves, and red wine, your taste buds will be satiated. (via Brit + Co)
Looking for Valentine's Day dinner ideas that are healthy and won't put a dent in your budget? Try your hand at this creamy Cajun mushroom pasta! (via Brit + Co)
Eating breakfast for dinner seems to stir up our inner little girl, so we're sharing this delish recipe with you! (via Brit + Co)
Chicken is always a pretty safe option when cooking dinner, but this recipe dresses it up into something extra delicious. (via Culinary Hill)
Make your Valentine something extra fancy with this confit salad. Not only is this Valentine's Day dinner elegant but it also features pomegranates and avocados, so we can't say no. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Photo via Tieghan Gerard of Half Baked Harvest
Whether you're making brunch or having brunch for dinner, this is a great French toast-croissant hybrid. Swap the drizzle of maple with a chocolate drizzle to make it extra Valentine-esque. Serve with white wine or champagne. (via Brit + Co)
With classic Cuban flavors, this mouthwatering pork recipe is juicy and moist. Pro tips: Spring for a high-quality meat source from your local butcher or farmers’ market, and marinate the pork overnight to make this top-notch recipe even tastier. (via The Food Charlatan)
If you’re both eating garlic, then you won’t have to worry about dreaded “garlic breath” after. Shrimp and gnocchi are already amazing on their own, but put them together for a powerhouse meal that everyone will want. You'll want to grab some red wine to go with this one. (via Damn Delicious)
If you prefer something a little more casual (or just love handheld food), try out these amazing wraps. Make your own tzatziki if you're feeling adventurous. (via Forks and Foliage)
These naturally pink ravioli are packed with decadent flavors and topped with a balsamic reduction for a sweet and savory combo. Plus considering it's Valentine's Day, we'll take all the pink food that we can get our hands on. (via A Beautiful Mess)
Pasta dishes have a certain sensuousness to them, and this indulgent, cheesy manicotti dish cries out for a cozy and lovey-dovey night in. Feel free to use store-bought marinara sauce or make your own. Bring on all the bread and garlic butter. (via The Cooking Jar)
Mussels are delicate, fleshy, and delicious and lend a hand to any full-bodied sauce. The beer base will require all the bread to sop up every last drop of goodness. (via Drizzle and Dip)
Add a little bit of ~mood lighting~ with these candles that are literally made out of butter. They make the perfect addition to any dinner and are like 2023's version of butter boards. (via Brit + Co)
If you're celebrating Valentine's Day with your girlfriends, or even going stag, make this colorful and sweet dessert board. You might spoil your dinner but honestly, it's worth it. (via Amanda Wilens)
This healthful, Whole30-approved pot roast doesn't skimp on yum factor even though it's made with completely clean ingredients. (via Noshtastic)
This plant-based tomato sauce blends cashews, roasted tomatoes, and onions. It is so good, the non-vegans in your life won't mind eating it too. (via Fit Foodie Finds)
Let this moist raspberry almond crumb cake help set the tone for sexy activities after dinner. It's full of ooey-gooey goodness that'll leave you and your date's mouths watering. (via Cozy Cravings)
For more Valentine's Day dinner ideas follow us on Pinterest and check out our online cooking classes!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This article has been updated from a previous post.
Additional reporting by Chloe Williams and Jasmine Williams.
The right accessory won't just elevate an outfit – it will also make your getup, well, uniquely yours. That's why collecting certain must-have pieces is the key to expressing your personality and completing your everyday looks! From shoes to scarves and watches to sunglasses, your 'fits just aren't the same without a little spice.
Anthropologie
From wearing them on your head to wrapping them around your neck, scarves and bandanas are statement pieces that can transform your whole appearance! Plus, they're super easy to wear.
A silky scarf can add an instant touch of refinement and luxury while retro or bohemian-inspired bandanas can bring a fun, bold twist to your personal style.
Collect a few neutral pieces, as well as patterned, colorful ones, to have options for every outfit!
Gap
Waist belts are the ultimate accessories for shaping your figure. It not only defines your waist to create a flattering silhouette, but also turns loose-fitting pieces into something that can be chic and trendy.
Since they're so versatile, waist belts can be styled in an endless amount of ways. Use them to add a pop of contrast over a dress or to cinch an oversized blazer at work.
Quince
If you've been searching for footwear that's comfortable and cute at the same time, loafers are your answer! They help add a polished touch to any outfit while still maintaining a laid-back vibe.
You can rock them with a white button-down and blue jeans for a business-casual look or pair them with a skirt and blouse to dress up without suffering in heels all night long.
Baggu
Let's be real: do you really need every little thing that's floating around in your massive purse right now?! From old gum packs to multiple tubes of chapstick, it's sometimes a bit too much.
If you opt to embrace the mini purse trend, you can leave all that extra baggage at home. They may be tiny, but they make a bold statement and are sure to become conversation-starters, especially when they feature bright colors or patterns.
Just take only what you absolutely need out of the house and enjoy feeling a bit lighter without all the clutter from purses past.
Nordstrom
One of the most timeless accessories that can instantly elevate any outfit is a classic watch. Regardless of whether you're a gold girlie or a silver girlie, find a watch that matches your typical bracelet stack and wear it with all of your looks.
Throwing on this seemingly subtle accent piece couldn't be easier – yet it will pull together any aesthetic.
Urban Outfitters
Of course, sunglasses are practical tools that help protect our eyes from harmful rays. But more than that, they're critical fashion accessories that enhance your style.
It doesn't matter if you love classic aviators or bolder styles, like cat-eyes. There are sunglasses out there that complement every face shape and vibe!
J.Crew Factory
Want to add more depth and personality to your look? You can never go wrong with layered necklaces. By experimenting with different lengths and styles, you can completely customize your vibe every single day.
Don't be afraid to mix metals, textures, and even charms to infuse your outfit with interest in a playful yet chic way.
Nordstrom
Lastly, a go-to hat is the perfect way to (literally) top off your outfit with a finishing touch that reflects your personal style.
If you live in a warmer climate, you may opt for a sun hat or signature baseball cap that's a neutral, versatile color. Or, in the chillier months, find a beanie that's cozy and cool to enhance your winter wardrobe.
Whatever the season or occasion, a go-to hat can truly complete a look.
Subscribe to our newsletter for more easy style advice!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
When you welcome a furry friend into your family, one of the biggest decisions you'll have to make is choosing their name. Of course, there are the (possibly overdone) classics like Princess, Fido, and Lassie, but they're still cute. Other, more modern names, such as Luna, Milo, and Cooper, have also risen in popularity.
However, have you ever met someone who picked a pet name that left you seriously scratching your head? Plenty of people on Reddit have, and they recently shared the worst dog names they've ever heard (some of which have unfortunate or bizarre backstories).
"Scooter because when they got him, he would drag his [behind] on rugs because he had worms," one user revealed.
"I've never been fond of highly normal-named dogs (David, Katie, Tom, Sarah, etc). But then there are also people like my [derpy] old roommate who, for some special reason, named his dog Cat," another user said.
"My sister-in-law named her dog Hashtag. Not even kidding. She thought it was trendy and unique," shared a user.
"My husband's family likes to get the same types of dogs and give that dog the same name as the dog before it. They've had generations of Shih Tzus named Joachim starting in, like, the 1950s, and there was also a series of Portugues water dog duos all named the same thing," one user explained.
"I adopted a dachshund from a lady who was getting divorced and was going to submit him. His name was Kaiser Koenig der Schnitzel Fritz... We just called him Fritz," recalled another user.
"A colleague called her dog Dave. When I started at the job, I couldn't figure out who the [heck] she was talking about when she 'took Dave for a walk.' I was too scared to ask who Dave was," detailed a user.
"There was this old lady that would take her two chihuahuas to the dog park. I'd also see them occasionally on walks around the neighborhood. They were both white and looked very similar," one user remembered.
"The male dog was named Girl, and the female dog was named Boy. They were nasty little dogs. Girl peed on my shoes once, too."
"I once heard someone name their dog Chair. The poor pup must have been so confused," added a user.
"My brother named his dog Aye because he wouldn't respond to anything else except 'Aye!' Come to find out, the former owners were Haitian, and the dog understood more Creole than English," a user said.
"They still got the dog. He's 15 years old, and my brother's family has learned some Creole phrases for him. He understands English now, but his name still remains Aye."
"My dad never had a son to name him Joshua, so he named our dog Joshua," joked a final user.
Looking for more pets & lifestyle advice? Be sure to sign up for our newsletter!
