Valentine's Day Dress

The history of Valentine’s Day has all the necessary components of a tentpole blockbuster: Forbidden love. Mystery. Deception. Torture. War. It’s riveting stuff.

There are three men who may or may not be Saint Valentine, making him love’s version of Keyser Söze. My favorite tale speaks of Rome’s emperor, Claudius II, and his ban on a soldier’s right to marry and have a family. The thinking goes that a man with nothing to lose makes a better warrior. On paper it’s not a bad idea. But despite 150 million cards sent each Valentine’s Day, love isn’t about what’s on paper.

It is a gift.

One that shouldn’t be denied to a soldier or anyone.

I can’t help but wonder why one of Claudius II’s advisors didn’t tap him on the shoulder to suggest, perhaps, maybe, a soldier with nothing to lose isn’t as effective as a soldier with something to fight for.

Here’s to fighting for the gift we call love.

And like all extraordinary gifts, we’ve put a bow on you.

The After Valentine’s Day Dress (No. 5294). Stretch rayon-blend fabric with full stretch lining. Bateau neckline with large collar that drapes over your shoulders. V-neckline in back with self-fabric bow. Bow is tacked at the top and has extra-long tails that fall to mid-thigh length. Sleeveless armhole. Center front seam. Shaping darts at front and back waist. Invisible zipper at left side seam. Hook-and-eye closure at top. Bra keepers. Imported.