Summer has come to a rather swift and unfortunate end but with the autumnal season upon us, what better excuse could you possibly need to invest in a whole new wardrobe?
And the trend we’re so desperately seeking is soft, charming and well, admittedly rather Christmassy. Velvet.
Having graced countless catwalks season after season, the trend still manages to lure our credit cards in with ankle boots, blazers and velvety dresses aplenty.
But not to fear, as velvet can be donned no matter what the season, it’s just a matter of styling it.
Be it a velvet slip dress worn atop a white t-shirt or a velvety emerald two-piece paired with heels (yes, we’re talking about that Topshop celebrity coveted co-ord drop) - there are plenty of ways to style the must-have.
And on that note, we round up the very best ways to style the most lust-worthy trend of the moment (when it's not quite winter just yet)…
Leave it to the accessories
With the British weather undoubtedly unpredictable, it’s best (and sartorially safest) to steer clear of any velvety jumpers. Instead, play on the trend through your accessories.
As luck would have it, the high street has just seen a fash drop in velvet-inspired pieces, from royal emerald box clutches to the nineties comeback choker. We're lusting over this new drop from River Island.
Velvet boots
It’s the one good thing to come out of winter. And with the change in the elements brewing, make sure to snag yourself a pair of snow-defying boots, fast. Just make sure they’re velvet. Pair with a suede mini skirt and pussbow blouse for sweet '70s vibes.
Drape it over your shoulders
One word - Zara. The holy grail of new season trends has just dropped velvet in abundance and we cannot get enough. The mink coloured velvet utilitarian jacket is undoubtedly the sartorial stuff of dreams.
Pair with a white zip-up polo and trousers then finish with sock boots. Race you to Zara...
Luxe athleisure
Think velvet and you conjure up associations with Hollywood glamour, festive parties and well-concocted dressiness. But with the rise of athleisure, there’s no denying the luxe-sportswear revival.
So if you’re not one to don soft tailoring, then why not opt for athletic velour? Finish with trainers (not the kind you gym in) and the lustworthy Zara backpack above.
The crushed velvet co-ord
We know it’s not quite the festive season, but who could say no to this emerald co-ord?
But if you're not one to double-up, simply opt for the blazer and pair with a crisp white shirt. Or of course, give the flares a go.
For more tips and tricks on how to style up the trend, browse the gallery for sartorial inspo:
Velvet New - Grazia
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Eva Herzigova donned a pink velvet pyjama style suit to the Venice Film Festival. Talk about tackling two trends in one. The look was finished with round '70s sunnies. Take sartorial inspo this season and pair with boots come winter.
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As velvet is traditionally associated with Christmas, opt for brighter shades. Yellow is undoubtedly the colour of the moment so invest in a crushed velvet pair of trousers and pair with a silky blouse.
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Sofia Richie is the girl of the moment and we recently discovered that she's also our style muse. With a zip-up velvet hoodie dress hybrid and thigh-high boots, she's showing us all how velvet can be worked into the athleisure trend.
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As the colder climate creeps in, layer your velvet slip dress over a jumper as demonstrated by Gilda Ambrosio. If the sun is out to play, layer over a simple white t-shirt and bare legs.
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Gigi Hadid works '80s inspired double denim with her velvet boots. Swap the denim jacket for a trench when the colder climate hits. A pair of boots is the greatest way to play on the trend if you're not ready to fully invest in the look.
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Kendall Jenner not only brought the baker hat back but donned a pair of lust-worthy velvet boots. Pair yours with a simple t-shirt and wrap-around skirt as demonstrated. Finish with a blazer when the sun dips.
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