Velvet dresses for winter
Velvet is the easiest way to look dressed up in winter. Pick a jewel tone or black, a midi or maxi length for evening, and stretch velvet if you want easy care. Steam it, never iron it flat.
Velvet does the dressing up for you. It catches the light, feels good and keeps you warm, which is more than sequins can say.
When to wear it
Winter evenings. In Australia that means June to August: winter weddings, Christmas in July, dinners. In the US it's the holiday season, so Christmas parties and New Year's Eve. In an Australian December, leave it in the wardrobe.
Types of velvet
- Silk velvet drapes beautifully and costs the most.
- Crushed velvet has a broken, shiny texture and hides creases.
- Stretch velvet has some give, so it's comfortable and easy to care for.
Length and shape
A midi with a sleeve suits a cocktail invitation. A floor length gown in black or a deep colour works for black tie. Keep the shape simple. Velvet is busy enough on its own.
Caring for it
Hang it, don't fold it. Steam out creases. Spot clean where you can, and check the label before you wash anything.
A velvet midi
Warm enough for a cold night, smart enough for a cocktail invitation.
- Dress
A jewel tone velvet midi with a sleeve - Shoes
Pointed heels or heeled boots - Layer
A tailored coat
A velvet maxi
Velvet reads rich in the evening without sequins.
- Dress
A floor length velvet gown in black or a deep colour - Shoes
Strappy heels - Layer
A wrap or faux fur stole
Common questions
What colours work best in velvet?
Deep colours. Black, emerald, burgundy, navy and chocolate all show off the pile. Pale velvet marks easily.
How do I get creases out of velvet?
Steam it, or hang it in a steamy bathroom. Never press an iron flat on velvet. It crushes the pile for good.