Happy Friday, gang! Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if you’re like me, you might be looking for a mix of cozy, festive vibes without the whole “do I need to make reservations at a fancy restaurant?” situation. Whether you’re planning a low-key night in or you just want to feel extra loved (because, hey, you deserve it!), we have a few perfect ideas for you—with sweet treats from Trader Joe’s, casual outfits, a buttery pasta recipe, and a gorgeous cocktail that’s gonna make your heart swoon. Let’s dive in, shall we?
Beth’s Casual Valentine’s Outfit
Maeve The Carys MockNeck Sweater – Je T’Aime | J.McLaughlin Ivy Pants | Nike Airmax Sneakers
Now, I love dressing up for Valentine’s, but if we’re keeping it casual and cozy, I’ve got the perfect ensemble to keep you comfy and chic. Kelly shared the The Carys MockNeck Sweater yesterday for her casual petite post and I loved it so much, I had to get one myself! This sweater is from Anthropologie and it comes in several colors with different French phrases. My love for the Ivy Pants from J.McLaughlin just got a bit deeper with this new layered lines print. These pants are perfect for spring and summer and this blue line print is great for festive summer outfits.
Neutral Nike Airmax Sneakers complete my casual Valentine’s ensemble. I love these sneakers because they are comfortable and fashionable – they’re the perfect sneakers to pair with casual outfits like this, and they look fantastic with trousers for an unexpected twist.
Shop Beth’s Casual Valentine’s Outfit
Kelly’s Casual Valentine’s Outfit
Madewell Waffle Knit Raglan Tee | Madewell Darted Barrel Leg Jean | The Greta Ballet Flat | J.Crew Leopard Leather Belt
I have been in love with the Darted Barrel Leg Jean and when Madewell introduced a version in white denim, I had to snap them up! This Waffle Knit Raglan Tee is ultra-cozy, it’s basically a thick thermal underwear-style top and it’s a great option for a casual Valentine’s outfit.
This Leopard Leather Belt is from J.Crew and If you don’t yet have a leopard belt, it’s time to add one to your collection! They are perfect for adding a fun twist to any outfit. I used this belt to add a little pattern and color to my recent menswear-inspired post. And to add balance to my outfit, The Greta Ballet Flat in red suede is the perfect way to tie everything together.
Shop Kelly’s Casual Valentine’s Outfit
Valentine’s Sweet Treats from Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s always has fun and festive holiday-themed treats and we decided to treat ourselves for this Valentine’s edition of Fridays with Oscar! Just a few heart-shaped chocolates and conversation hearts…the Raspberry Mousse Cakes are the perfect accompaniment to our raspberry martini.
Very Sexy Martini
This is a great Valentine’s cocktail! Subtly sweet, a little fruity, and the pink color is perfect. While this is a martini, it’s topped with sparkling rosé, so it’s light and refreshing.
Very Sexy Martini
Ingredients:
- 3 raspberries
- 5 mint leaves
- 1 oz. simple syrup
- 1 ½ oz. citrus vodka
- 1 oz. lime juice
- 1 ½ oz. Moët & Chandon Rosé Imperial Champagne or another comparable sparkling rosé, to top
- Garnish: mint sprig
- Garnish: raspberry
Instructions:
- In a shaker, muddle the raspberries and mint with the simple syrup.
- Add the vodka and lime juice, fill with ice, and shake until well-chilled.
- Strain into a cocktail glass.
- Top with the Champagne and garnish with a mint spring and a raspberry.
Did you make this recipe?
We’d love to see! Tag us @styleatacertainage
Pasta with Butter and Cheese
This is the easiest pasta recipe of all time! Pasta with Butter and Cheese is the original Alfredo without the heavy cream. It’s rich and luxurious, yet light and satisfying. This is an ultimate comfort food so it’s perfect for a Valentine’s dinner at home.
Pasta with Butter and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. Pasta
- 1.5 tbsp. Kosher Salt for seasoning the pasta water
- 2 cups Parmesan Cheese grated, plus extra for serving
- 5 tbsp. Unsalted Butter cut into 5 pieces
- Black Pepper optional, for serving
Instructions:
- Set 3 quarts of water to boil in a large pot over high heat.
- When the water is boiling, add 1.5 tablespoons of kosher salt to the water, then add the pasta. Set a timer for 8 minutes and test the pasta doneness beginning at the 8-minute mark. For almost al dente, Fettuccine will cook for about 9 minutes.
- When the pasta is just about to al dente, ladle out 2 cups of pasta water into a measuring cup and set aside.
- Drain the pasta and without shaking off the excess water in the colander, add it back to the pot.
- Add the butter, cheese, and 1 cup of the reserved pasta water. Turn the heat up to medium-low and vigorously stir the pasta.
- It will look all wrong at first. It will be super watery. But as we vigorously stir the pasta with the starchy water, butter, and cheese the pasta will continue cooking and soaking up the water, creating a thick, smooth sauce. Keep adding a drizzle of pasta water as needed to keep the mixture smooth.
- Keep stirring until a smooth, creamy, glossy sauce coats the pasta.
- Cover the pot and turn off the heat. Let the pasta rest for about 3 minutes. Then stir again (add a drizzle more of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed) and serve.
- Serve in a warmed, wide shallow bowl and top with fresh cracked black pepper and more grated Parmesan, if you like.
Did you make this recipe?
We’d love to see! Tag us @styleatacertainage
Cheers to a Casual Valentine’s Day Fridays with Oscar!
Oscar, Ollie, Kelly, and I wish you a beautiful weekend!
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