Why velvet outfits will see you through party season – and where to buy the best pieces now

Image courtesy of Mint Velvet

Guaranteed, velvet will elevate your winter wardrobe. Here’s our new season guide to the best pieces to buy and how to style them.

Lottie Franklin

17 October 2022

Velvet outfits are your answer for achieving instant, effortless glamour this party season.

As a fabric, velvet has timeless appeal, elevating dresses, suits, and separates with its luxe look and feel. There’s a subtle sumptuousness and decadence to it, making clothes look effortlessly smart, while also being a warm and comfortable fabric to wear, especially in winter.

Simply put, velvet outfits look special, so there’s really no wonder the fabric is so popular for wearing at Christmas time, Christmas parties and New Year’s Eve.

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But, velvet is more versatile than you might think and shouldn’t just be saved for those glamorous party dresses or trouser suits (although they’re fabulous too and, of course, get a mention later).

Here’s how to style velvet into your wardrobe and the best pieces to buy now before they sell out…

Velvet trousers

When it gets cold, velvet trousers are a smart option (in all senses) for day-to-night outfits, as a wintry alternative to wearing jeans and a nice top. They’ll look chic and keep you snug (and smug) too.

Velvet blazers

Velvet blazers are also a great investment for your winter wardrobe. They’ll effortlessly elevate a dinner and drinks outfit as a chic layer for wearing over the top of a blouse, silky cami, or even a satin slip dress.

If, like me, you’re picturing that Parisian je ne sais quoi kind of blazer look, I’d recommend a blazer style that’s structured on the shoulders, slightly fitted at your waist, and then skims across the back of your bottom or below. The original YSL Le Smoking tuxedo jacket did come from Paris, after all, so it’s the best place to turn for your styling inspiration.

Velvet suits

If you’re stepping up your styling for a wow moment, then a velvet suit is forever iconic. This year for the autumn/winter runways, designers were championing tailored blazers with a looser velvet trouser fit.

Velvet mini dresses

For ultimate luxe, I love a velvet party dress. Wear with sheer patterned tights and platform heels and you’ll be party ready. All these options come in a range of sizes – New Look has size 18 to 32, River Island size 6 to 28 and Zara’s XS to XXL.

Velvet evening dresses

Black velvet outfits will always look classic and chic, so keep it in mind when you’re looking for a smart and stylish evening dress in winter. From slip dresses to wrap around dresses, you can rely on velvet’s soft draping for a flattering look.

Velvet midi dresses

If you’d like to find a dress that you can get multiple wears from then you’ll love velvet midis like these below. Dress them up with heels for a smart dos and get togethers or wear them with knee high boots on weekends or to the office.

Velvet skirts

Another alternative to wearing jeans and a nice top is switching out your trousers for a velvet mini skirt or midi skirt. To complete the outfit, tuck in a pretty blouse, or wear with a roll neck or a chunky knit. Then, add knee high boots, stompy boots or comfy heels and tights depending on the occasion.