Most of us are familiar with the multitude of amorous associations surrounding Valentine’s Day. As for how such practices came about, however, proves to be murkier territory, with there being various conflicting accounts with regard to the individual responsible for starting it all. The general consensus is that revered English poets Geoffrey Chaucer and William Shakespeare had a part to play in the popularisation of V-Day fever, where they kickstarted the tradition of penning and exchanging love letters. This eventually devolved to gift-giving; of course, with major corporations commercialising the celebration by marketing candy, flowers, and jewellery to the masses.
These days, V-Day has become a more profit-orientated affair than ever. Still, that’s not say it is lacking in sincerity by any measure. Instead, individuals are choosing to reinterpret and reinvent archetypal rituals. Flowers made by crochet are having a moment; more unique chocolate configurations than ever have burst onto the scene; while a recent survey conducted by vacation rental company, Vacasa, revealed that experience-based dates are taking precedence over extravagant gifts.
It is a sentiment that is well-reflected in the fashion realm, too, with this year’s Valentine’s Day capsule collections presenting a renewed take on trite trends. Heart motifs are still prominently featured, except they’re being rendered in abstract shapes and paired with bold typography, utilitarian hardware, as well as pop-art influences that make it a visual feast to witness. In the case of Dior, cherubs were forsaken in favour of Eros, the Greek God of love. Then there’s Tod’s. The Italian luxury house has opted for bold typeface and quotes to convey the timeless quality of love, a reminder for folks to shower their loved ones with affection “every step of the way” through a new sneaker drop.
Below, a full rundown of the most striking Valentine’s Day capsule collections to know about in 2022.
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Gucci Saint Valentine Doll, $3,680
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Gucci Saint Valentine GG Supreme, $1,890
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Gucci Saint Valentine Mix Mat, $3,700
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Dior Cupidon Intarsia and embroidery cashmere knit, $3,300
Available at Dior.
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Tod’s Tabs sneaker, $1,080
Available in stores.
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Salvatore Ferragamo Gancini slide, $1,090
Available in stores.
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Salvatore Ferragamo Vara Bow cross body bag, $2,590
Available in stores.
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Salvatore Ferragamo Vara Bow top handle, $2,250
Available in stores.
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Salvatore Ferragamo bracelet
Available in stores.
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Salvatore Ferragamo Vara Bow key ring
Available in stores.
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Balenciaga Valentine’s Day 22 track trainers, $1,450
Available at Balenciaga.
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Balenciaga Valentine’s Day 22 Tie-Dye hoodie wide-fit in black, $1,450
Available at Balenciaga.
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Balenciaga Valentine’s Day 22 Romance necklace, $775
Available at Balenciaga.
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Balenciaga Valentine’s Day 22 Romance earrings, $725
Available at Balenciaga.
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Balenciaga Valentine’s Day 22 Romance ring, $550
Available at Balenciaga.
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Balenciaga Valentine’s Day 22 mesh bra, $275
Available at Balenciaga.
