Won't you be my Sweater Sweetheart Valentine? I know, it's not Valentine's Day anymore, but now that the flowers have wilted, the chocolate has been eaten (and regretted), where does that lovin' feeling go? How about something that's calorie-free and isn't shedding petals every ten seconds. I used to love patterned sweaters as a kid. Big shapes and patterns incorporated into the knitted weave -- loved 'em. And it wasn't even the Dr. Huxtable/insane pattern sweaters, I liked the simple, childish shapes of big hearts, stars and flowers, and I'm happy to say my childhood love has finally come 'round again! I've been admiring all the cute retro-styled sweaters, as well as ones with metallic threaded patterns. The look might be a little nerdy, but despite the Valentine sweetness, we're still in winter weather. Instead of being buried in drab, dark wool coats, put a little love in your heart... or just wear it on a sweater.

Here's some sweaters that are just a real sweetheart of a find: {1} Intarsia Dog Sweater by Boy. by Band of Outsiders, {2} White Label All Over Love Lennon Sweater by Wildfox Couture, {3} Sloane Dot Cashmere Sweater by Equipment, {4} Lurex Flame sweater by Lucca Couture, {5} Spray Paint Metallic Cable Knit by Christopher Fischer, {6} ASOS Cat Sweater, {7} Collection Handknit Fair Isle Sweater in navy hickory poppy by J. Crew



Jaunty Fine Print: Images from shops listed above

Valentine's Day is upon us! This Bird isn't much of a stickler for the hearts n' flowers stuff -- truthfully, I have a hard time taking a greeting card-invented holiday all that seriously, but I do appreciate the sentiment. It's a good idea to recognize a special someone in our life. But what's with the red rose fever?? It's the one day of the year that the price of roses triples, and as beautiful as they are, there are so many other gorgeous flowers out there that still say "I love and appreciate you," all the same. 

I had to show off one of my favorite photos I took on a recent visit to Maui. Orchids are incredible flowers, no? Difficult to grow in colder climates, true, but what a showstopper. I haven't had the best of luck keeping these delicate beauties alive, but I do love them for their color, exotic and fluttery shape, and frankly, they give any ol' rose a run for its money! So as you're considering heart-shaped boxes of chocolates and wondering if that bouquet of roses is worth the holiday upcharge, take a stroll outside the Valentine's Day box and consider a living plant, something a recipient can enjoy and care for, much like a beloved relationship. 

The Birdy wishes you all a very happy Valentine's Day -- you don't need a sweetheart to feel loved and appreciated, and don't be shy about letting someone else know they are loved and appreciated.    


Jaunty Fine Print: Photo by Denise Sakaki