CRUSHING ON VELVET: HOW TO STYLE VELVET TOPS FOR PARTY SEASON

Luxurious, vampy, plush, rich – all words you might associate with velvet. And for good reason. Year after year, velvet is a go-to for red carpets and party looks alike. Jenna Ortega leant into the gothic side of velvet for the Beetlejuice premiere last year, Emily Blunt recently wore a sculptural velvet Ralph Lauren gown for the ELLE Women in Hollywood event, and even our very own Claudia Winkleman is known to love a velvet jacket.

Black may be the first shade you think of when velvet springs to mind, but we’re here to prove that a little colour will go a long way in your party wardrobe. And is this not the perfect example of a jeans-and-a-nice-top outfit? Clashing textures is a great way to add dimension and interest – that’s why the faux-fur jacket works so well here. But equally, a leather jacket (or trousers) would look great, too. Of course, it wouldn’t be a party outfit without a touch of sparkle – find this with your accessories.

GET THE LOOK:

Topshop co-ord twist shoulder velvet cami in avocado, £36

Topshop Barrel mid rise jean in washed black, £50

Topshop faux mongolian fur bomber coat in grey, £95

Topshop Gwyn embellished knot grab bag in pewter, £32

A blazer already has party appeal, but if it comes in velvet – and crushed velvet at that – then it’s guaranteed to cause the best kind of scene at your next event. Chocolate brown has ruled 2025 wardrobes, so why not continue it into party season? This blazer comes as part of a co-ord, so when you're thinking about how to wear a velvet blazer, you can choose to go head-to-toe or team it with tailored trousers or a satin skirt – whatever fits your style best. Amp up the intensity with gold accessories and a rich oud fragrance.

GET THE LOOK:

ASOS DESIGN Curve tailored velvet blazer co-ord in chocolate, from £30

Public Desire Beverly pointed toe heeled ankle boots in brown, £45

ASOS DESIGN drop earrings with 3D floral design in gold tone, £14

KAYALI Oudgasm Chocolate Oud EDP 10ml, £35

Nothing says chic quite like a black velvet top, especially during party season. This one from ASOS DESIGN has a gold-tone detail that creates an asymmetric silhouette for a touch of difference – something worth considering when you’re opting for an all-black moment. Sheer patterned tights add depth to the look, while a simple black skort and glossy patent pumps give a refined finish. And if heels aren’t your thing, swap them out for a smart loafer or ballet flats – they’ll have the same polished effect.

GET THE LOOK:

ASOS DESIGN velvet funnel neck tank top with metal trim, £22

ASOS DESIGN tailored wrap mini skort in black, £26

Calzedonia Sheer polka dot tights in black polka dot, £16.99

ASOS DESIGN Skip slingback kitten heel shoes in burgundy patent, £26

Whether you like the extra warmth or just prefer a bit of extra coverage, a velvet long-sleeve top will work double-time in your winter wardrobe. And if you’re looking to switch up your style this season, try a different silhouette to what you’re used to. For example, the slim asymmetric fit of this top would contrast perfectly with the voluminous shape of balloon trousers or a tailored wide-leg style. Balance the look by extending the velvet to your toes with a pair of bow heels, and add silver accessories that’ll bring that extra dose of razzle dazzle.

GET THE LOOK:

Topshop velvet off shoulder tunic long sleeve top in burgundy, £36

ARKET pull on balloon shape trousers with shine in black, £85

Accessorize knotted cupchain long drop earrings in silver, £14

ASOS DESIGN Saffron bow detail mid heeled shoes in black velvet, £32

River Island Sequin clutch bag in silver, £36

If high-octane glamour is what you’re looking for, you’ll always find it in a velvet corset. For the ultimate dressed-up look, team yours with a sequin skirt and heels. But the beauty of a corset is you can dress it down if the dress code calls for it. For instant cool-girl appeal, slip into your favourite jeans instead. Whether you’ve got an office party, cocktails with friends or a family affair, you’ll always look like you’ve made an effort in one of these.

GET THE LOOK:

ASOS DESIGN structured velvet longline corset in black, £28

River Island ruched side velvet sequin midi skirt in black, £46

ASOS DESIGN Nali barely there heeled sandals in black PU, £22

ASOS DESIGN ring with oval and faux pearl detail in gold tone, £8