How to Wear Velvet for AW16: 5 Ways

Velvet – it’s considered a bit of a Marmite fabric.
For some, it’s a decadent, luxe accent that instantly makes an outfit look more expensive than it really is. Others though, think of it as a fabric best left to the archive.
But there’s no getting away from velvet this season, as it’s literally everywhere you turn. After making waves on the catwalks of a host of designers from Valentino to Balmain, it’s filtered down to the high street in a big way. And we mean big.
From skirts to jumpsuits via an ankle boot or puffa, there’s a myriad of ways to wear velvet this season and not one of them has to be a dress. Which one will you choose?

The ankle boot

Boots, £120, Senso at Very Exclusive

If you’re looking to dip your toe into the look without investing in a whole outfit, an ankle boot is an easy way up update your everyday outfit.
Try to steer away from black with navy, grey or rich red tones and embrace this season’s cropped ankle jean to really show them off.

The top

Blouse, £25.99, Mango

Velvet can easily work for day as well as night; a velvet T-shirt is a great alternative to a lightweight knit as the chunkier fabric adds warmth with a little opulence along the way.
Look for one with added extras like flounced sleeves, mesh panels or ribbon detailing.

The jacket

Puffa, £69, Topshop

One way to up the ante of a puffa jacket (another must-have this winter) is by making it a velvet one.
For those who’ve never quite managed to embrace the casualness of a padded jacket, opt for a velvet one for a hefty nod to the sports-luxe trend.

The pleated skirt

Skirt, £29.50, Marks & Spencer

Pleated skirts are going nowhere, but they’ve been reimagined for 2016 in, you guessed it, velvet.
Wear with a jumper or tee by day and a silky blouse or cami by night. Prim, but in all the right places.

The brave…

Jumpsuit, £60, True Decadence at ASOS

Feeling brave? Ditch the typical sequinned Christmas party dress for a true vampy look – a velvet jumpsuit.
It’s decadence personified and an elegant option for any festive occasion; add a slim heel to balance any bulk.