Being single my plans for Valentine’s day tend to range from being  supremely casual to classy   so I decided that this year I would cover both kinds of activities. So for the next week I will be featuring some affordable Valentine’s day outfit inspo, starting with this first look  that is perfect for a casual shopping date, bowling, or even karaoke.

I don’t know about you, but I am still not ready to let go of peplum. The cinched waist of a peplum top is like wearing a fit and flare skater dress that is so versatile as it  can easily be paired with pants or skirts. It is this fact that drew me to this Bongo Junior’s Plus ribbed knit peplum sweater as it was a new take on an already classic piece. My fall/winter wardrobe vastly outweighs my spring/summer wardrobe for reasons I have already discussed on the blog. What can I say? I love knits, just as much as I love the winter cold. So considering the number of sweaters I already own, I really didn’t need to add to my collection, but the uniqueness of this piece stayed with me even after I left the store and shared it on Instagram that I just had to return to Sears to pick it up a couple days later. 

This sweater is thick, providing much needed warmth for these cold winter days. I particularly love how the vertical rib knit detail emphasizes the feminine pepulm waist. The hem has a good flare though not as voluminous or elaborate as my other similar tops. Paired with my favorite skinny Levi’s jeans, I dressed it down with my Vans though I can just as easily swap these sneakers for some heels to go from this lad back style to something more chic. Continuing in the vein of casual style, I kept accessories to a minimum, with a traditional Celtic knotwork ring with Amethyst stone and a pink rhinestone barrette for my half updo hairstyle.

~Get the look~

Bongo Junior’s Plus Ribbed Peplum Sweater (1X) | Sears (sold out but available in stores)  Levi’s Mid-rise Skinny (14 Reg) | Macy’s 
Vans Ferris Low Pro Sneakers | Famous Footwear (similar here and here)

While is sweater is no longer available online, I am happy to report that it is still available on sale in stores in turquoise, peach and, of course fuchsia pink. And if you can’t make it to your local Sears before Valentine’s day, don’t worry I got you covered. Below you’ll find links to other tops for that casual V-day outing, all of which are less than $40! Check them out and let me know which is your favorite.

Crochet Dot Blouse | Avenue           (Liz from With Wonder and Whimsy styled this top beautifully in a recent post here.)

Embellished Heart Hi Lo Swing Tee | Avenue

Fringe Hem Crochet Pullover | Wet Seal Plus

Gwen Open Stitch Sweater | Fashion to Figure (styled by Jolene from Boardroom Blonde recently here)

Flirty Hearts Tee | Lane Bryant