From the kind of candlelit cocktails that end an Uptown dinner to the way the French Quarter invites a hand-in-hand stroll, New Orleans and romance go together like a wink and a smile. We played cupid to find some Valentine’s-themed accessories and activities to help keep the home fires burning.
A carnation-red statement bag from Tory Burch will seamlessly take you from workday to date night. The laser-cut print on the Robinson perforated micro double zip tote will add on-trend texture to your ensemble. Emma’s Shoes & Accessories, 3904 Highway 22, (985) 778-2200; 110 Rosa Ave., 407-0668, EmmasShoes.com
With accents of gold and silver leaf, as well as local designer Helen Bolin’s signature use of patina and bronzing, a few thoughtfully placed clay heart decoratives make a lovely addition to any tablescape. Lucy Rose, 3318 Magazine St., 895-0444, ShopLucyRose.com
For a day of pampering, book some relaxation time at The Spa at Stone Creek. This day-cation spot offers a full array of services, such as couples’ massages and half-day retreats, along with access to the secluded relaxation garden and lounge. The Spa at Stone Creek, 1201 Ochsner Blvd., (985) 801-7100, StoneCreekClubAndSpa.com
Festive for the 14th, the Jane by Marie Jo balconette bra and the matching Rio panty in an elegant Fiesta Red hue are just the underthings to have you feeling sexy and feminine. Bra Genie, 2881 Highway 190, (985) 951-8638, TheBraGenie.com
Keeping with the eternal theme that diamonds are a girl’s best friend, a diamond bar necklace is the epitome of elegant simplicity. Hiller Jewelry, 923 Metairie Road, 837-8200, HillerJewelry.com
For a night on the town, slip on the vintage-inspired Honey Child Dress. The structured bodice and red stretch cotton sateen fabric flatter in all the right places. Trashy Diva, 2048 Magazine St., 299-8777; 537 Royal St., 522-4233; TrashyDiva.com
See the world through rose-colored glasses, literally, with the MONROE by KREWE DU OPTIC. A modernized version of the 1950s cat eye, the handcrafted scarlet lens is not only stylish, but also 100 percent UVA/UVB protected. $185. Feet First, 4122 Magazine St., 899-6800; 526 Royal St., 569-0005; 200 Metairie Road, 324-9124, FeetFirstStores.com
Put your declarations of love in writing with a whimsical card from Waste Not Paper. Betty Hunley Designs, 6057 Magazine St., 895-2870, BettyHunley.com
Gift your sweetheart with a breakable heart pendant from Cristy’s Collection. The pendant comes soldered together, so you can make it a moment when the two of you break them apart together. Adler’s Jewelry at Lakeside Mall, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 504.523.5292, AdlersJewelry.com