The Beatles coined the phrase "can't buy me love," but they probably weren't shopping for a discerning partner on the year's most romantic holiday.
Those looking forward to Valentine's Day and shopping to create a special day of romantic bliss won't be alone. It turns out that most of us will be buying for the special people in our lives. According to the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics, shoppers are predicted to spend a staggering $25.9 billion on Valentine's Day this year – one the highest spending years on record.
To ease the shopping pressure and increase the shopping pleasure – we've put together a list of the best places to shop for everything Valentine's Day related across all categories, including romance, gal pals, self-care, and of course, our furry friends.
Elizabeth Anthony is hosting can't-miss events in the Uptown Park boutique. Highlights include the store's annual Designer Evening Showcase featuring eveningwear with an opportunity to earn a $1,000 gift card and an exciting shopping event for Galentine's Day. On February 9, the store will host Girl's Day Out featuring in-store sweet treats, drinks, and shopping surprises. Shoppers can also check out trunk shows from Assael Fine Jewelry, Judith Leiber Couture Handbags, and the Chris Davies Fine Jewelry Collection Trunk Show with a personal appearance. Details for in-store happenings are available here.
Luxury brand Finley shirts, known for their soft cotton and ruffled collars, have mastered closet staples since they began designing clothing 25 years ago. Finley Shirts are made for the gal that loves all things pink for Valentine's Day. The line features shirt dresses, skirts, and tops perfect for the pink and red-themed holiday. Finley can be found at Tootsies and Neiman Marcus.
The coveted Ellsworth+Ivey Crewneck "HOU" sweater is back in stock at Golden. The custom knit sweater is made from an acrylic blend and is lightweight enough for Houston's temperamental weather. Snag one before they are gone again.
Southern Cali-based brand Gorjana will launch a new collection of stunning, heart-shaped pieces just in time for Valentine's Day. The new line, available in stores on February 6, features rings, earrings, and necklaces in Gojana's signature laid-back style.
For nearly 50 years, IW Marks Jewelers has been a go-to for great Valentine's Day gifts. On the heels of its complete renovation, they put together a gift guide perfect for the most romantic day of the year. Dazzling diamonds, engagement rings, fashion jewelry, and gifts for him are available at the Bellaire store.
Beloved jewelry maven Kendra Scott recently released two new capsule collections. Yellow Rose by Kendra Scott is a Texas ranch-inspired capsule collection exclusively online and at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. The 56-piece collection was designed with the Modern Cowgirl in mind, and for those looking for something to wear on Valentine's Day, the brand just released its Valentine's Day collection with pieces for both men and women.
For those wanting even more of Kendra, the Houston Rockets are hosting a Kendra Gives Back Party at the Kendra Scott Houston Heights store on Tuesday, February 7, from 6:30 pm-8:00 pm. During the event, Kendra Scott will give 20% of the proceeds back to Clutch City Foundation. Guests can expect special appearances from Clutch, KJ Martin (Houston Rockets Forward), and the Clutch City Dancers. RSVP to the event here.
Léránt is one of Houston's top destinations for gifts and decor. Score colored glasses, gorgeous dishes, and V-Day-themed linens to create a stunning tablescape for a Galentine's Day dinner or shop for unique gifts. Visit the Galleria-area store for a Margarita Mercantile Pop-Up on February 8 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Shop Mexican-inspired dresses, Valentine's Day gifts, and decor. Margarita Mercantile merchandise will remain in the store through the weekend.
Art and home decor enthusiasts will be delighted to shop the Lewis & Maese's Sawyer Yards location closing event, The Sale at Sawyer. Deal-savvy shoppers can take advantage of huge savings on thousands of items, including new, gently used antique furniture, rugs, lighting, paintings, sculpture and accessories, handbags, and jewelry. The sale has also helped shoppers find great deals on statuary, pianos, linens, fossils, furs, crystals, and southwestern silver and turquoise pieces – among many other finds. Saturday, February 4 – doors open at 11 am, and the auction begins at 1 pm; Sunday, February 5 – doors open at 11 am, and the auction starts at 1 pm.
Shop contemporary home decor and art at the new location of Native Citizen by Williwest Design Studio on 19th Street in the Heights. The store is known for mixing vintage objects with modern elements to create a unique lifestyle and features art by local artists Edgar Medina and Sonya Cuellar.
Floral favorite LoveShack Fancy has teamed up with wellness brand BelliWelli for an exclusive launch of their probiotic chocolate chip snack bar. Snag a treat from the collab's pink floral bar stands. The super cute bars will be free with all in-store purchases in LoveShack Fancy's River Oaks District Store.
The mother-and-daughter team behind Look Lifestyle focused on providing luxury and relaxation this Valentine's Day. The Lily Rose Nightgown is lightweight, breathable, and made from a poly-silk and spandex blend. Pair the gown with their artisan-made Babe Towels for the ultimate in-home retreat.
No one is more deserving of our attention and cuddles than our pups. Spoil them with gifts from ultra-glam pet boutique Pucci this Valentine's Day. Pucci carries a full range of heart-themed clothing items, including sweaters, toys, and treats.
Shop locally for Valentine's Day at Urban Harvest's third annual Sweetheart Festival on Saturday, February 11, from 9 am to 11 pm. Houstonians will have the opportunity to support local growers and makers to prepare for Valentine's Day. Shoppers can learn from citrus tree expert Bill Arndt and taste seasonal chocolate-covered Atkinson's strawberries dipped on-site by market vendor Xocolla Chocolate. There will also be games, prizes, and crafts for the whole family at the Valentine's Day-themed event.
Photo courtesy of shopgoldenhouston.com
Snag a HOU sweater from Golden Boutique before they sell out (again).
The posh Post Oak jewelry store has put together a Valentine's Day gift guide and two events to make the month much sweeter. Round up the besties to shop their Galentine's Day Soirée on Friday, February 10, from noon to 6 pm and score 20 percent off Zadok Collection for your sweetheart or yourself. Experience the new collection from Parisian designer Dinh Van on February 10-11 from 10 am to 6 pm and shop an expanded selection of modern, wearable jewelry, notably worn by the cast of Emily in Paris during the show's latest season.
And, a swoon-worthy bonus...
Ditch the flowers and chocolate and get yourself or your loved one something extra-luxe from Gucci. The formidable fashion house put together a host of options anyone would love to receive on Valentine's Day. Shop at the brand's Galleria outpost and choose from the Ophidia GG heart utility belt, Aphrodite small shoulder bag, Aluminum GG cabin trolley, and so much more.
Texas-based artist Kyle Steed adds to the local appeal of the new Highland Village store. Photos courtesy of Lululemon 
