It’s hard to believe that the day of love, roses and candy is nearly upon us once again.

Yup — Valentine’s Day.

And many ladies are panicking about what to wear for that special date that's less than two weeks from now.

I suggest White House/Black Market, because it's one of the garment boutiques that forces the fashion envelope by designing chic, sexy and elegant women's pieces.

Most women want to purchase something trendy but lasting. And they want to feel comfortable in every garment they purchase.

So here's the story ...

I had a great conversation with Michelle Brunner, a manager at White House/ Black Market. Michelle took a few moments to speak with me about what’s hot for that romantic day, and how to pull it all together.

As an aside, she filled me in that many guys actually come in while their women are shopping. This is very interesting because it’s generally accepted that men hate to shop.

"Most of the guys like to come in and sit in the ‘man chair’ and wait for their lady to come from the dressing room with the dress or whatever she’s trying on,” said Michelle. “Most of our pieces are sensual and cut to fit the woman’s body and curves.”

One of the hottest pieces is the White House’s pencil skirt, a popular piece  customers have been grabbing up quickly. Michelle described it as a slim-fitting, high-waisted skirt, which can be pulled together with a great blouse and high-heel pumps.

“It’s an excellent choice for Valentine’s Day, date night and parties," said Michelle. “The shoes are White House-styled and branded and they are comfortable and don’t pinch your feet.”

Stretching the “s” in sensual, the boutique also has a similar pencil-skirt style transformed to a long dress. This is great for a party, wedding or special event.

"This style accentuates the woman’s hourglass shape as well. We have pieces that fit our clients up to a size 16,” she said.

White House Black Market is certainly a think-outside-the-box store for ladies who adore sensual, sexy and trendy clothing that, at the same time, defy trends. This is a fine tightrope to walk in the fashion world. But, White House has done it well.

When it comes to Valentine’s Day, stepping "outside the box" doesn't mean you have to leave the house for a date or go to Victoria’s Secret for lingerie.

Try something different and bring Valentine’s Day into your home space. Guys, grab that button-down shirt and match it with the a European-style suit (no tie necessary) and dress up as if you’re going out, as you stay in and create an experience.

You and your significant other can create a menu of simple and delicious delights and schedule a midnight supper, complete with candles and aromatherapy from Pier 1.

Gourmet Again or Trader Joe's are great places to grab dinner ingredients.

Instead of roses and chocolate, create a gift bag and include one tiger lily and organic dark or milk chocolates from a fair trade community. 

Write a note or jot down a memorable epiphany on a note card in place of a commercial Hallmark greeting card.

For dessert, why not try chocolate-dipped fruits (find some at Chocolate Publishing Company in Pikesville) or a natural pastry, cake or pie — light but delicious!

Let's not forget about beverages. Red wine is often the healthiest.

Valentine’s Day can be remade, reimagined and remastered to be something more than what it has been for so many years — candy, roses, lingerie, dinner and a commercialized card.

Create a theme, space and experience that will get the two of you thinking about what to do next year!

White House/Black Market, Pier 1 and Trader Joe's are all located in the Festival at Woodholme Shopping Center, 1809 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville.

In Towson, White House/Black Market is in the Towson Town Center, 825 Dulaney Road, #3355. Pier 1 and Trader Joe's are located at 1 E. Joppa Road, Towson.