While Valentine’s Day 2021 may look quite different to previous years, Cupid isn’t about to be put off by a global pandemic. The dating app Bumble has reported a 93% spike in usage of its in-app video chat function, as people remain committed to finding romance during this time.

2020 revealed some surprising upsides to socially distanced dating, and virtual dates are certainly amongst them. You can discover common interests by visiting art galleries and museums via your screens, or stay much closer to home and scrutinize your date’s home décor tastes while you catch up with a glass of wine. As Valentine’s Day approaches, here’s how to make sure your outfit helps put the “ooh” in Zoom.

You and your date might like to create a theme for your time together, perhaps centered around your favorite food or city in the world. It may come as no surprise that two of the most popular foods in the world are pizza and Thai curry: why not take inspiration from one of them, and theme your evening and outfit choices to match? Something laid back but stylish like a jumpsuit would fit perfectly with street food style pizza slices and a good bottle of red wine. For Thai food, consider a silk blouse, or pick out details such as pearls or orchids in your jewelry. Or go for that classic date night dinner of surf & turf, paired with a crisp white shirt and black pants. Pick a delivery company you trust to deliver the same steaks to both of you so you know you're sharing the same quality and decadence worthy of Valentine's Day.

Your Valentine is there to get to know you, so show them what you’re about. If you’re proud that your workouts are resulting in toned upper arms, wear something sleeveless to show them off and get you talking about fitness. If you love to travel or support independent labels, why not wear a statement piece that opens up a conversation about where you bought it? Research has shown that it can take less than three minutes to assess a love interest’s potential, so get cracking with those conversation openers to quickly gauge where your shared interests lie.

Research has shown that the average person spends around five hours per day staring at a laptop screen. To help you shift from work mode to Valentine date mode, make sure you block out a little time to relax and change gear. Run yourself a bath, take a moment to style your hair properly, and check that your nails are clean and well groomed: even a simple file and cuticle trim will elevate your look. Regardless of how much your date can see on camera, you will feel more confident and radiate that positive energy.

There’s no reason not to bring your best to a virtual Valentine date. If anything, these online experiences can result in more meaningful, honest connection, as many of the trappings of a typical date are stripped back. Consider having fun with a theme, show your date something that is unique to you, and most importantly, take the time to make yourself feel special beforehand. A confident smile is the most attractive date accessory yet.