Valentine’s Day Trends in the 1900s – How People Celebrated Love
Sweety KarlakValentine’s Day in the 1900s was filled with charm, emotion, and tradition. Even without modern technology, people found beautiful and creative ways to express love. Many of these trends still influence how we celebrate Valentine’s Day today.
Let’s take a look at the most popular Valentine’s Day trends of the 1900s.
Handwritten Love Letters
One of the biggest trends of the 1900s was writing heartfelt love letters. People carefully chose their words, wrote with ink pens, and poured their emotions onto paper. These letters were treasured for years.
Gifting Flowers (Especially Red Roses)
Red roses became a powerful symbol of love. Men often gifted bouquets to their partners, and florists saw increased demand around Valentine’s Day.
Beautiful Decorative Valentine Cards
Elaborate paper Valentine cards became very popular. These cards featured:
Lace designs
Glitter and ribbons
Cupids and heart illustrations
Romantic couple images
Many people kept these cards as memories.
Handmade and Thoughtful Gifts
Instead of expensive store-bought items, people preferred handmade gifts such as:
Embroidered handkerchiefs
Knitted scarves
Small paintings
Personalized keepsakes
These gifts showed effort and deep affection.
Love Poems and Romantic Songs
Romantic poetry and music played a big role in Valentine’s celebrations. Some people even wrote their own poems for their loved ones.
Secret Admirers Were Common
Many people sent anonymous Valentine’s cards signed “Your Secret Admirer.” This created excitement, mystery, and romance.
Chocolates Slowly Gained Popularity
By the late 1900s, chocolates started becoming a Valentine’s treat, though they were considered a luxury gift at that time.
Valentine’s Day and Marriage
Valentine’s Day was often associated with proposals and romantic commitments. Many couples chose this day to express serious love or get engaged.
How Valentine’s “Days” Were Celebrated in the 1900s (Traditional Style)
Unlike today’s modern Valentine Week (Rose Day, Propose Day, etc.), people in the 1900s did not follow a fixed 7-day celebration. Instead, love was celebrated in a slow, meaningful, and traditional way around February 14.
Letter Writing Days (Early February)
In the first week of February, people began writing romantic letters and poems for their loved ones.
Flower Sending Days (Before Feb 14)
A few days before Valentine’s Day, men often arranged for flowers — especially red roses — to be delivered.
Valentine Card Days (Feb 12–13)
Beautiful handmade or decorated Valentine cards were sent secretly or openly to lovers, friends, or admirers.
Gift Preparation Day (Feb 13)
People prepared handmade gifts like embroidered handkerchiefs, knitted items, or small keepsakes.
Valentine’s Day – February 14 (Main Celebration)
This was the most important day, where people:
Exchanged love letters
Gave flowers and cards
Spent quality time together
Some couples got engaged or proposed
Final Thoughts
Valentine’s Day in the 1900s was simple, emotional, and deeply meaningful. Love was expressed through words, creativity, and personal effort — making it truly special.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Was Valentine’s Day celebrated in the 1900s?
Yes, Valentine’s Day was widely celebrated in the 1900s, mainly through letters, cards, and flowers.
2. What were the most common Valentine gifts in the 1900s?
Handwritten letters, flowers, handmade gifts, and decorative cards.
3. Did people give chocolates in the 1900s?
Yes, but mainly in the late 1900s, and they were considered a luxury.
4. Were Valentine cards popular back then?
Yes, beautifully designed cards were one of the biggest trends.
5. Did people celebrate Valentine’s Day only as couples?
Mostly yes, but friends and secret admirers also exchanged cards.
6. Were love letters important in the 1900s?
Absolutely — they were one of the most romantic ways to express love.
7. Did people celebrate Valentine’s Day with parties?
Some communities and social groups organized small gatherings or dances.
8. Were roses always red?
Red roses were most popular, but other flowers were also gifted.
9. Did women also propose on Valentine’s Day?
Rarely, but in some cultures, women could express love through letters.
10. Why is the 1900s Valentine’s trend still special?
Because it focused on emotions, effort, and personal expression rather than money.
