Thought you’d seen the last of velvet? Think again.
Ballet flats were dismissed for many years as a fad from the 2000s. Then, the style set started slipping their feet back into them. Now, they’re a fixture across pavements globally, and the collective conscious has forgotten the hateful glances they once received.
The same, it seems, goes for velvet. In 2016, that plush pile was everywhere, until the public perception turned and it was deemed as tacky and garish. As we entered the twenties, it was nowhere to be seen. But if the most recent catwalks are anything to go by, it seems that velvet is most definitely back.
This season, it wasn’t just Anna Sui that returned to fashion week. The design veteran showcased velvet earth-tone suits and lace-trimmed dresses in a particularly Victorian aesthetic that was also evident at Bora Aksu and Ann Demeulemeester. Khaite, Calvin Klein, and Fforme are known for their minimalist design codes, yet all three didn’t shy away from using the salient material. Even Ralph Lauren dipped its toe into the trend, showcasing moss and chocolate roll-necks, blazers, and floor-length dresses.
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Naturally, there were plenty of eveningwear options. Lanvin embellished its slinky gowns with feather trims or fringed hems. Richard Quinn’s dresses were curvaceous and glistening, reaffirming that the material should be seen as a luxury one. While Akris, Ulla Johnson, and Alaia all presented suits for those whose style leans on the more androgynous side.
But why is it back now? You may have noticed other ostentatious trends, like animal print and loud color combinations, have also had a revival. If the early 2020s were for minimalist wardrobes, the latter half of the decade is swaying in the other direction. And while temperatures aren’t currently scorching, now’s the time to start adopting some plush pieces before the masses catch onto the trend this fall.
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If you want to lean into the ornate feeling this fabric exudes, shop for vintage pieces that are particularly dainty. If that’s an embellished blouse, keep the bottoms simple and not overly modern. Alternatively, a pussy-blow blouse looks fantastic with a pair of wide-leg velvet trousers; the loose-leg silhouette keeps the look from looking too dated or costume.
For more subdued ready-to-wear, swap in a velvet blazer – another garment that’s slowly regaining popularity, especially in monochrome. Black seems like an obvious choice, but natural hues add a bit of color into your ensemble without it looking over-the-top. If, however, you’re still wary of velvet, start by weaving it into your evening wardrobe. A fitted black gown that is devoid of prints, colors and gaudy jewelry is incredibly chic and still falls under the minimalist umbrella.
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