Ahh, velvet – it’s super strokable, luxurious, and never fails to make us feel festive. Whether it’s for a formal event, a Christmas celebration, or another special occasion, a velvet dress is a timeless wardrobe piece that deserves your attention. Join us as we explore all things velvet, from which shades will suit your skin tone, to the best velvet pieces of the season and how to wear them.
Why Choose a Velvet Dress?
Before we dive into the intricacies of styling a velvet dress, let’s take a moment to appreciate why they are such an iconic choice. With its plush and soft texture, velvet has an elegant and opulent feel. This fabric has serious visual and tactile appeal! The sheen of velvet plays with the light, giving the dress a unique, eye-catching look.
How To Style A Velvet Dress
Another advantage of velvet is its versatility. It can be styled for formal and casual occasions, making it a valuable addition to your wardrobe – the key is to understand the nuances of styling to maximise the potential of your velvet dress.
Choose the Right Fit
The first step in styling a velvet dress is selecting the right style for your body type and the occasion. Velvet dresses come in various cuts and lengths, from maxi to mini, and body-hugging to flowy. Think about these factors:
– Body Shape: For an hourglass figure, opt for a fitted velvet dress to accentuate your curves. A-line or empire-waist dresses work well for apple or pear-shaped bodies.
– Occasion: A long, elegant velvet gown is perfect for formal events, while a shorter, flirty dress suits casual outings.
Selecting the Right Shade
The colour of your velvet dress can significantly impact your overall look. Here’s how to make the right choice:
– Skin Tone: Choosing the right colour for your velvet dress that compliments your skin tone can enhance your overall look. Here are some general guidelines to help you select the best colours for a velvet dress based on different skin tones:
For Fair Skin
– Cool Tones: Jewel tones like deep emerald green, sapphire blue, and amethyst can make fair skin stand out beautifully.
– Pastels: Light pastel shades like blush pink, lavender, or soft mint can create a delicate, ethereal look.
– Neutrals: Cool neutrals such as charcoal grey or silver can provide an elegant contrast.
For Light to Medium Skin
– Warm Tones: Earthy warm shades like burgundy, rust, and forest green can complement light to medium skin tones.
– Brights: Bold and bright colours such as royal blue or fiery red can create a striking contrast.
– Metallics: Gold and copper shades can add warmth and radiance to the complexion.
For Medium to Olive Skin
– Rich Hues: Deep, rich colours like deep purple, dark red and navy can create a captivating look.
– Earthy Tones: Olive and warm earthy colours like terracotta or mustard can complement medium to olive skin beautifully.
– Metallics: Silver or bronze shades can provide a striking contrast.
For Dark Skin
– Bold and Brights: Vibrant shades such as rich blue, fuchsia, and emerald green can make a bold and eye-catching statement.
– Jewel Tones: Deep jewel tones like amethyst, ruby, and sapphire can enhance the richness of dark skin.
– Neutrals: Darker neutrals like deep brown or charcoal grey can be elegant and sophisticated.
Universal Colours
There are some colours that tend to work well with a wide range of skin tones. These include:
– Navy Blue: A versatile and universally flattering shade that suits many skin tones.
– Burgundy: A deep, rich colour that complements a range of skin tones.
– Emerald Green: A jewel tone that can enhance both fair and dark skin.
– Black: A classic and elegant choice that works for various complexions.
Accessorise: Jewellery, Shoes, and Bags
A beautiful velvet dress gives you the perfect canvas for accessorising. Here are some tips:
– Jewellery: Opt for statement pieces, such as a chunky necklace or large earrings, to add a touch of glamour. Gold or silver complements velvet beautifully.
– Shoes: Strappy heels, ankle boots, or even stylish trainers can enhance your velvet dress. Choose footwear that suits the occasion.
– Bags: A sparkly clutch bag or a metallic handbag will complete your look.
Layer with Jackets, Coats, and Scarves
When styling your velvet dress for cooler weather or added flair, layers come to your rescue. Here are some ideas:
– Leather Jacket: A black leather jacket can lend a hint of edge to your look, creating an intriguing contrast with the softness of velvet.
– Coats: A tailored coat or a faux fur coat will keep you warm and pull your outfit together.
– Scarves: A silk or cashmere scarf can be draped elegantly around your neck, adding a pop of colour and warmth.
Day to Night – How to transition a velvet dress from a daytime to a nighttime look?
One of the most remarkable aspects of velvet dresses is their adaptability. With a few changes, you can easily transition from a daytime to a nighttime look.
– Daytime Look: Pair your velvet dress with a denim jacket or a cardigan for a relaxed, chic look. Opt for casual footwear like ankle boots or stylish trainers.
– Nighttime Look: For evening events, switch to strappy heels, add some statement jewellery, and transform your makeup for a more glamorous appearance.
Dressing for the Weather
Velvet dresses can be worn year-round, but you’ll need to adapt them for different seasons. Consider these seasonal variations:
– Spring & Summer: Choose a short, lightweight velvet dress for breathability, and pair it with open-toe sandals or wedges.
– Autumn: Incorporate layers like a leather jacket and ankle boots for a cosy yet fashionable look.
– Winter: Opt for a long-sleeved velvet dress and add tights or leggings. A faux fur coat and knee-high boots will keep you warm while looking stylish.
Your Velvet Dress FAQs
Can I wear a velvet dress in the summer, or is it too hot?
Yes, you can wear a velvet dress in the summer, but it’s essential to choose lightweight velvet, shorter styles, and lighter colours to stay cool and comfortable in warm weather.
Are there any specific shoes that go well with velvet dresses?
Yes, there are specific shoes that pair well with velvet dresses, including strappy heels and ankle boots.
What’s the best way to care for and clean a velvet dress?
The best way to care for and clean a velvet dress is to spot-clean minor stains with mild detergent and lukewarm water, and to have it professionally dry cleaned for more thorough cleaning. Avoid machine washing, use gentle steaming or ironing techniques, and store the dress on padded hangers to maintain its shape.
Should I opt for a fitted or flowy velvet dress, and how do I choose the right fit?
The choice between a fitted or flowy velvet dress depends on your body type, personal style, and the occasion. Fitted dresses accentuate curves and are suitable for formal events, while flowy dresses offer comfort and versatility, often ideal for casual or relaxed occasions. Choose the fit that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
What’s the difference between crushed velvet and regular velvet, and how does it affect styling?
The key difference between crushed velvet and regular velvet is their texture. Crushed velvet has a textured, crinkled appearance, making it more casual and contemporary. Regular velvet has a smooth, lustrous texture, making it the traditional choice for formal and elegant styles. Choose based on the event and your personal style.
