How to Wear Velvet

If the mere sound of the word velvet makes you squeamish, it shouldn’t. The fabric has been worn by kings and rock stars alike, and since your style probably lies somewhere between those extremes, there’s definitely a place in your wardrobe for velvet. Velvet is like a spice and is best when used sparingly (we wouldn’t advocate a velvet suit any more than a bowl of horseradish). Lately it’s become trendy to wear velvet slippers with casual outfits in place of, say, a driving moccasin. Our version, complete with golden crest, pairs with denim, flannel grey trousers or your most elegant evening ensembles, not to mention a robe and pajamas. For a step up, consider a velvet vest under your favorite sport coat — or even alone with a crisp white shirt. Our houndstooth velvet vest with shawl collar takes a traditional pattern and renders it in an unexpected fabric, a perfect addition for your wintertime festivities. For an even bolder statement, nothing beats a velvet sport coat. Don’t be surprised if women stroke your arm during conversation when you’re wearing something like our ultraluxe double-breasted burgundy velvet blazer, all but guaranteed to make you the most rakish guest at the party. We’ve also done a single-breasted dinner jacket in cream, a velvet twist on Bogart’s iconic look in “Casablanca.” But a fabric this plush shouldn’t be just for mixing and mingling, which is why you should feel comfortable wearing it for quiet evenings at home by the fireside as well. For kings, rock stars and even you share one thing in common: a man’s home is his castle.