Wearing velvet to a party – a men’s style guide
Velvet has long been synonymous with luxury and sophistication. From the opulent courts of European aristocracy to today’s chic events, velvet’s rich texture and lustrous sheen have continued to capture the sartorial imagination.
Velvet’s origins trace back to the East, where it was first woven from silk. Its production spanned across continents, reaching its zenith in the royal courts of Renaissance Europe. Velvet was a symbol of wealth and status, reserved for the highest echelons of society.
Although today’s velvet is often blended with synthetic fibres, it has retained much of its aristocratic charm. The lowered production and retail costs make velvet perfect if you like to experiment a little.
Velvet’s unmistakable sheen will make you a stand-out guest at any event. This guide helps you work out how to wear mens velvet blazers and jackets, ensuring you exude elegance at your next soirée.
Exploring velvet jacket styles and colours
Because of its sheen, velvet almost has a living feel to it. It can sometimes appear like a flawlessly smooth block of colour, while other times it moves like the Northern Lights, with sweeping auroras of darkness and rich hues. That makes the choice of colour a vital one.
Black velvet jackets
The classic black velvet jacket is the epitome of understated elegance. Perfectly paired with a crisp white dress shirt and a black or metallic bow tie, it becomes an ideal alternative to the conventional tuxedo. For a more relaxed look, consider wearing it tieless with a black polo neck sweater underneath, adding a layer of contemporary sophistication.
Blue velvet jackets
From midnight to royal blue, velvet in this spectrum offers a refreshing departure from typical black attire. Match a blue velvet blazer with a white or light blue dress shirt and a contrasting tie in a complementary shade. For an edgier vibe, a dark blue velvet jacket paired with a black turtleneck creates a stylish ensemble with 1960s undertones.
Green velvet jackets
Emerald and deep forest greens are both bold and sophisticated. Complement a green velvet blazer with an ivory shirt and a textured gold or burgundy tie. Green pairs handsomely with tan trousers for an exquisite contrast in textures and hues, ensuring all eyes are on you.
Burgundy and maroon velvet jackets
Shades of burgundy speak volumes about confidence and flair. A burgundy velvet tuxedo worn with a black dress shirt and a coordinating red or black bow tie is both festive and distinguished. For a slightly dialled-down approach, a white shirt with an open collar keeps things effortlessly chic.
Purple velvet jackets
Purple is synonymous with wealth and wisdom, and a purple velvet jacket certainly commands respect. Pair it with a grey or black shirt for a sleek look or opt for a patterned tie that picks up on purple hues to enhance the vibrancy of the ensemble.
Red velvet jackets
Definitely one for those with bold tastes, a red velvet jacket is the ultimate look-at-me garment. Toning down the formality with a black roll-neck sweater can help you swerve the fox-hunting vibe, but if you’re going in all horns blazing, there’s no replacement for the black bow tie and purest white shirt.
Paisley and quilted styles
Patterns and textures offer an alternative take on the pure delights of a single colour, and open up a few tantalising options for your VJ.
Paisley patterns add a whimsical touch to velvet, perfect for those wanting to infuse personality into their attire. A paisley velvet jacket pairs well with a white or neutral shirt and minimal accessories, ensuring the pattern remains the focal point.
Quilted velvet jackets, on the other hand, offer a tactile and visually interesting dimension. These jackets are best paired with simple, solid colours to avoid overwhelming the senses.
The importance of fit
The right fit can make or break an outfit, particularly with a statement fabric like velvet. Ensure your velvet jacket skims your shoulders neatly and tapers at the waist. Sleeves should end at the wrist bone, allowing a sliver of shirt cuff to peep through. Avoid overly tight fits, as velvet’s thicker texture requires a bit of breathing room to maintain its shape and elegance.
Accessories matter
Accessories can take your velvet attire from stylish to show-stopping. Consider contrasting textures and colours to create a balanced look. A silk pocket square in a contrasting colour, metallic cufflinks, or a leather belt in a complementary shade can all add depth to your ensemble. A velvet jacket demands shoes that match its level of sophistication. Go for polished leather dress shoes or patent loafers for the ultimate finishing touch.
Caring for velvet
Velvet’s delicate fibres require careful maintenance to preserve their lush appearance. For spills and spots:
- Blot immediately with a dry cloth – avoid rubbing.
- Use lukewarm water mixed with a gentle soap to blot the stain, then blot dry.
- For stubborn stains, seek professional dry cleaning.
Velvet is notorious for accumulating dust and lint in the wardrobe. To maintain your jacket’s smooth appearance:
- Use a soft bristle clothes brush or a lint roller regularly.
- Hang your velvet garments on padded hangers to maintain their shape.
- Store in a breathable garment bag to prevent dust and creases.
Are you ready for a touch of velvet?
Velvet is a timeless fabric that can ease you into iconic status when worn correctly. Consider your colours carefully and think about the style of the event you’re attending. Then it’s all down to your charm and charisma to pull off the look. We can almost guarantee that once you’ve dipped your toe into the velvet waters, you’ll be ready to dive right in.
