The Style Files - Velvet, Consistent And Classic 

Velvet, the refined vampire look, polished with a tad of decadence to it. It was worn with simply styled hair, bold rings, dark stained lips, seductive beauty and an aura of '70s rebelliousness. Velvet is experiencing a fashion moment once again. 

This velvet look isn’t artsy, grand or princess like it’s just chic. Arriving in a shocking array of bright hues, velvet is no longer the fabric of dark, romantic, gothic evening-only clothes, but one to be mixed into the most vibrant street styler's daytime wardrobes. You'll find it used in everything from trouser suits to sky high stilettos. 

Velvet is having a moment right now On the catwalk, Giorgio Armani made himself the velvet king by making (almost) his entire collection in black velvet. Shoes, dresses, tops, and bags are covered in the luxe-feeling textile. The thing about velvet is that it’s quite grown-up on the whole, and that’s something to be celebrated in a world full of emojis, slogan t’s and dungarees. 

You have to admit that velvet is versatile. It’s gothy and 90s. It is supermodel sexy, also has a very proper old-school-gala feel to it and it’s also romantic. While velvet for A/W is a no brainer, take away the air temperature issue of wearing velvet in hotter climes (like ours) and velvet is looking like a tempting proposition – eminently tactile, it’s perfect for a bit of fun on a night out. 

There are plenty of ways to wear velvet and look elegant. If the bodycon dress doesn’t work for you, think more louche and loose. Long, flowing evening gowns that cocoon the body for a striking silhouette. A more relaxed silhouette will work best with longer lengths, although be warned: while a floor skimmer will certainly create a dramatic visual effect, it may be tempered somewhat if you end up stepping and tripping on the hem all night! Wrap dresses and deep necklines are flattering but always keep in mind if its low on top don’t make it short as well as that will just look tacky! 

Velvet is unquestionably the fabric of the season, especially with designers moving away from the traditional rich hues of plum, bottle green and rust and moving into brighter hues. The plainest versions are trousers, boyish and gamine. For this season velvet comes in a punchy, electric colour palette. So many ways to wear it so make sure you do!