How to wear velvet without looking like Mrs Christmas
Velvet is back for autumn/winter 2015, and this time round it's as far from fancy-dress, Mrs Christmas and OTT richness as you can imagine.
It's a grand and opulent fabric, so you can either embrace its luxe drama and channel your inner royal, or you can tone it down by pairing with denim. Velvet blazers and camis look great teamed with boyfriend jeans or leather trousers.
We're into the louche Oscar Wilde vibe of this season's velvet suits, which look great oversized, and are a perfect party-ready option.
Alternatively, go for a grungy approach and wear a velvet slip dress with biker boots or Converse. Those who want to dip in without going the full way should consider a pair of velvet boots or shoes, which add a lavish edge to any outfit. We also love the juxtaposition of a velvet bomber jacket - urban utility meets 17th century royals.
See our pick of the best velvet pieces above.
Velvet slip dress, £14.75, Forever 21
Claret Cubana boots, £269, Penelope Chilvers
Cerise skater dress, £580, Emilio de la Morena at Avenue 32
Velvet skinny jeans, £230, J Brand at Trilogy
Velvet plimsolls, £18, Asos
Black and white velvet midi skirt, £155, The Fold
Dandy velvet slipper shoes, £139, Chatelles
Velvet maxi slip dress, £108, Free People
Belted velvet jacket, £179, Gestuz
High-waisted wide-leg trousers, £119, Gestuz
Open front blazer, £28, Missy Empire
Velvet kick flares, £271, J Brand
Blue ankle boots, £460, Laurence Dacade
Velvet shoulder bag, £310, Marc by Marc at Stylebop
Glitter velvet playsuit, £27.99, New Look
Quilted bomber jacket, £65, Monki
Embellished tunic dress, £129, Monsoon
Bell sleeve skater dress, £25, Pretty Little Thing
Navy jumpsuit, £39, Rare London
Satin and velvet strapless mini dress, £465, Red Valentino at Stylebop
