A Valentine's Day dance is a great excuse to dress up, but since it is not as formal as the prom, you’ll want to leave the ball gown at home. Even though the event is a more casual one, there are lots of ways to showcase your personal style, look your best, and reflect the holiday’s romantic theme.

Sporting the signature colors red and pink on Valentine’s Day is a great way to look festive at the dance. All shades of reds and pinks will look feminine and romantic on Valentine’s Day, from a soft blush hue to bold fire engine red. To keep the look on the sweet side and appease your school’s dress code, look for a flirty frock in a retro-inspired shape. A knee-length dress with an A-line skirt will twirl fabulously on the dance floor and can be worn again during summer soirees.

When it comes to dressing for romance, you can’t do much better than to don a lace dress. This feminine fabric is soft and pretty, and looks stunning in just about any color. You can stick with red or pink to play up the Valentine’s Day theme, but a black lace dress is just as chic and romantic. Because lace can skew on the sexier side, choose a dress that provides a bit more coverage with either a longer hemline or sleeves.

If you really want to shine and are feeling especially fancy, make an entrance in a dress covered in sparkles or sequins. To keep the look youthful and party appropriate, opt for a mini or knee length shift dress in a bright, bold color.

Jewelry that ties into the Valentine’s Day theme is the perfect way to top off your dance outfit. Heart and flower charms on a delicate necklace look pretty with lower necklines, while sparkly rhinestone stud earrings complement casual updos. As for shoes, pick a pair with a lower heel that you can dance in. Hair and makeup should be kept simpler than prom but a little more glam than you’re normal look. Appear lovely yet unfussy with your hair piled high in a loose bun or soft, casual curls. As for your face, experiment with pretty pastel eye shadows and keep lips nice and neutral so as not to cover your Valentine in lipstick!