Velvet Isn’t Just For Christmas – Here’s How To Wear It Long After Party Season Has Finished

With the possible exception of Mariah Carey or the sight of great-aunt Mildred snoring in the corner after one too many sherries, there is nothing more festive than velvet. But don’t rush to stash it away with the tinsel – velvet is for life, not just for Christmas, and the style set is proving that velvet is versatile long after the last mince pie has been eaten. The trick is knowing how to make it go the distance.

For starters, invest in not-so-Christmassy colours. A dress in a delicious pistachio, for instance, will have more endurance than one in Santa red. Think beyond partywear, too. Try adding a touch of texture by layering a velvet waistcoat under a classic tailored two-piece, while accessories, like ballet pumps or a hair bow, offer a subtle nod to the trend that’s easy to incorporate.

Second, good care is key. ‘While all velvets have one trademark texture (known as a pile), it can be made from a variety of different fibres,’ says Layla Sargent, founder of The Seam, the UK’s only full-service care and repair specialists. She advises to always check the label; vintage velvets are usually made from cotton with a shorter pile, while newer items are often polyester or blended synthetics, and soft-touch, high-shine velvet is typically made from silk.

Whether your garment is dry-clean only or not, washing as infrequently as possible is recommended. ‘Velvet is more delicate when wet, so avoid pressing on the material until it’s dry as you may crush the pile.’ This makes spot-cleaning risky too. ‘Dirt or spills should be brushed away or shaken off,’ she advises. Ironing is also a no-no. ‘When stored properly (on a shaped hanger) velvet isn’t prone to wrinkling. However, if your garment does show creases, use a very gentle steam and leave the garment to hang.’

Finally, always repair promptly. ‘Silk velvets can be prone to seam slippage [which leaves a rip in the seam]. A small tear is simpler and more cost-effective to repair than a larger rip, so book repairs at the first sight of damage.’

Follow these rules and the decorations may be gone by Twelfth Night, but your velvet will be gleaming all year round.

SHOP: The Best Velvet Pieces