STYLE AND CULTURE

PAUL ANTHONY KELLY IS BRINGING BACK THE VELVET SUIT

By Flo Bellinger, 25 March 2026

Hollywood has a new leading man. After wooing us as JFK Jr., Love Story star Paul Anthony Kelly is taking style notes from his onscreen alter-ego. And while the most eligible bachelor of the 90s had a penchant for baseball caps, Paul turned to JFK Jr.’s more elevated staples for the Vanity Fair Oscars Party – arriving in a custom velvet suit by Brunello Cucinelli. Bold? Yes. Effective? Most certainly. With his Clark Kent locks and dazzling smile, Ryan Murphy’s latest muse made a case for the return of rich tailoring. Just stick to these styling tips and you can pull it off too.

Paul Anthony Kelly wearing velvet suit | ASOS Style Feed

Picture: Getty

Statement suiting is nothing new. 2026 has already invited vibrant colour-blocking and experimental textures to the formal wardrobe – but velvet can still raise alarm bells. The heavy fabric is deliciously retro but can quickly feel dated and bulky if not thought through. Paul Anthony Kelly struck the right balance by opting for a neutral shade. Soft earthy brown is not only timeless, but it dials down the textural chutzpah.

Collage of men wearing ASOS clothing | ASOS Style Feed

Picture: ASOS

To ground the look, Paul’s jacket features black piping to match his sleek trousers and classic bow tie. This nifty coordination trick is another great way to make statement pieces more wearable. And the simple patent dress shoes keep all the focus on the jacket.

Because of its rich finish, velvet can overpower your ensemble and your frame – especially when cut in a double-breasted silhouette like Paul’s blazer. This is countered with slim suit trousers and form-fitting shoes, so there’s no risk of looking cumbersome. Every styling detail takes the inherently vintage feel of velvet and brings it firmly into the present day. If it always looks this good, we say: viva la velvet suit!

GET THE LOOK:

1) ASOS DESIGN slim tuxedo trousers in black, £30
2) ASOS DESIGN slim rectangle sunglasses in green with green lens, £14
3) Maya Satin bow tie pocket square set in black, £24.99
4) ASOS DESIGN slim double breasted suit jacket in brown cotton velvet, £100
5) Tommy Hilfiger leather Penny patent loafers in black, £150