Ah February. The month of love. Red hearts, Valentine’s and Cupid’s little arrow. What better time to love yourself than this? Whether you have a significant other or a loved one to dote upon or not, a little self care and pampering should always be on the menu. We all know that when you take care of yourself first, you’re better able to take care of those around you. Besides, who doesn’t like a little spoiling every now and then.

Whether soaking in a bath, hitting the spa or indulging in your favourite meal is your idea of a little self love, as a Personal Stylist, mine always involves clothing. If you happen to love style, fashion, shopping or clothes as much as I do, here are 5 stylish ways to love yourself just a little bit more this month.

1. Dress For Yourself

When it comes to clothing, dress for yourself. By that I mean be 100% true to your style, dress for your particular body shape, in colours that suit your skin tone best.

I’ve worked with a number of women who’ve worn certain things because they thought that they should wear them. Either someone suggested it, they heard that it was the “in” thing or they thought it was appropriate.

Whatever the reason, never ever feel that you need to wear certain items. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to wear pieces that suit and reflect you and who you are.

2. Treat Yourself

Who doesn’t like a little treat or a splurge? If you haven’t in a while, or even if you have, why not treat yourself to a little somethin’ somethin’. Whether it’s a new pair of shoes, a blouse, earrings or a great fitting bra, treat yourself to something that makes you feel special.

While it doesn’t have to be expensive, it does have to be something that makes you look and feel absolutely fabulous. If money’s a little tight at the moment, hit a thrift shop or vintage store, or organize a clothing swap with some friends. Just find some way to give yourself a little pick-me-up.

3. Try Something New

Trying something new is a great way to give yourself a little love. We all get stuck in a rut every once in a while – do things the same way, shop at the same stores, wear the same types of clothes. Why not try shaking things up a bit?

Visit a new boutique, try on a different style of shoe, buy a piece of jewelry you’ve never worn before. Expand yourself. You’ll never know if something will work for you unless you try. Who knows what you could be missing out on.

Just keep one thing in mind – whatever you choose to give a go, make sure it feels right on you. Don’t force it. That would defeat the purpose.

4. Sexy it Up

What girl doesn’t like to feel a little (or a lot) sexy? Maybe not all the time, but here and there, or every so often. All day, every day works too. If you’ve been lacking in the sexy department lately, why not amp it up a bit?

Now, that said, it doesn’t have to be overt. Everyone’s definition of sexy is different. For some, putting on some sexy lingerie does the trick. For others it might be showing a little extra skin, wearing something silky or lacey or putting on a pair of killer heels. The most important thing is that you put on something that makes you feel like the hottest hottie you are.

5. Take Yourself Out

Let’s be honest. You’re too fabulous not to share yourself with the world. Put on your hottest, most stylish outfit, get dressed to the nines, do yourself right up, and take yourself somewhere fabulous. Whether it’s your favourite restaurant, the newest club or a great little café, get out there and show yourself off.

A word of caution – heads might turn, cats might call and cars might come to a screeching halt. It’s ok. Let them. Move along, do your thing and keep on keepin’ on, truly and absolutely, loving yourself.