Welcome the return of velvet

If there’s any trend that was exemplified in the 1990s, it was velvet. This decade made this textile so versatile that it was featured on dresses, boots and even jackets. Sadly, the velvet trend died down a bit once the 2000s hit, but like a lot of trends this fall, it seems to be making a comeback! Designers like Prada and Gucci have draped their runway models in velvet this year and now it’s our turn! Here’s how to wear the glamorous material:

Incorporate it into your fall wardrobe

Velvet is a pretty thick material, so there’s no doubt that it’s not the most summer-friendly. However, when the leaves begin changing and you grab a jacket on the way out the door, you’ve officially entered velvet weather. This is the perfect time of year to wear some soft velvet leggings, paired one of your favorite cozy embellished sweaters. You don’t have to sacrifice comfort for style! A velvet blazer is also a great way to keep warm this fall and still have fun with your look.

Experiment with colors

Most velvet pieces come in deep purples or maroons – perfect for feeling like royalty! However, it’s understandable to be a bit intimidated by the idea of wearing a bold color in such a distinctive fabric. If you’re not ready to let out your inner queen in a purple velvet dress, opt for something a little more low key, like some black velvet booties or a flowy kimono with velvet detailing. This way, you can get used to the style without feeling uncomfortable or out of place while wearing it.

Toughen it up

Incorporating velvet into an outfit gives it a very feminine vibe. Play that up by mixing floral patterns in as well, or go the opposite way and give it some edge. If you’re wearing velvet in your outfit, consider wearing your favorite leather jacket or some biker or high heeled boots as well. Either option is a fun way to play with your look and experiment with new possibilities.

Keep it simple

Velvet is a very bold material choice, so there’s no need to overdo it. If you’re wearing a piece made of the fabric, that’s all you need. Wearing a velvet dress with a handbag of the same material can be overkill – not to mention it takes the attention off of the one impressive staple. Keep it chic and wear just a single velvet piece at a time. Similarly, when you wear velvet, it’s a good idea to keep the rest of your outfit as minimal as possible – a pair of skinny dress pants and a simple clutch will do the trick.

Go all out

Once you wear a velvet dress, you’ll wonder how you ever went without. The stretchy material is breathable and comfy, while the soft shine of the velvet still allows you to look put together and dressy. This material is truly perfect for the holiday season. Pair it with some opaque tights and dress heels. The great thing about wearing a dress with some glisten to it is that you don’t need jewelry to pull the look together. However, since velvet’s shine is so subtle, it doesn’t look overpowering if you decide to wear you favorite fashion jewelry set as well. The moral of the story is to not be intimidated by the idea of rocking velvet. Make David Bowie and Prince proud.