Velvet is the undisputed fabric of the festive season. Rich, tactile, and quietly opulent, it carries an understated glamour, adding something special to your regular partywear pieces without being as in your face as a full sequin ensemble. Luxurious without being ostentatious, sumptuous yet supremely wearable, itâs no wonder it reigns supreme for occasionwear in the autumn and winter months. Plush and super soft, velvet not only looks expensive, but itâs also comfortable, which is a must for any plans involving partying into the early hours.
Royals wearing velvet dresses
Elegant and sophisticated, velvet has long been a royal favourite, gracing countless wardrobes and proving its enduring appeal. From the strapless black velvet gown the Princess of Wales wore at the Sun Military Awards in 2011 â a look that cemented Kate Middletonâs status as a modern style icon â to Princess Dianaâs iconic midnight blue velvet gown by Victor Edelstein, famously worn while dancing with John Travolta at the White House in 1985, velvet has defined some of the most memorable royal fashion moments.Â
Meghan Markle brought a contemporary sense of glamour to the tradition in 2018, when she appeared at the British Fashion Awards in a sleek, one-shoulder Givenchy velvet gown while pregnant with Prince Archie.Â
Velvet editorâs pick
© @holliebrothertonThe high street always turns its attention to velvet pieces in autumn/winter so I headed to & Other Stories on Londonâs Oxford Street and instantly fell for this velvet shift dress. It feels and looks high quality, and itâs so versatile. Itâs designed to be slightly oversized but it does run quite big (Iâm usually a UK 8 and Iâm pictured here wearing a 6). This means you can choose to wear it on its own or comfortably layer tops and blouses underneath. Iâd finish the look with a pair of sling-back heels or knee-high boots.
The best velvet dresses to shop this season
& Other Stories V-Neck Velvet Mini Dress
Editorâs Note:
& Other Storiesâ mini dress has a slim-fit shift cut thatâs so flattering. Made from the softest velvet with a sleeveless A-line silhouette, it features a V-neckline and even has pockets. I love it styled as a layering piece this autumn.
Style with: Alone or over an embroidered blouse with sling-back heels or knee-high boots.
Boden Tilda Velvet Midi Dress
Editorâs Note:
Velvet can look amazing in statement colours too. Case in point? This hot pink velvet midi dress from Boden. With its figure-skimming cut, ruched waistline, long sleeves, and slight stretch, itâs super flattering. It also comes in black and emerald green, if you want to go slightly more subtle.
Style with: A longline wool coat and platform heels.
Reiss Kass Velvet Sheer-Panel Cut-Out Midi Dress
Editorâs Note:
Royal favourite Reiss has dropped the Kass dress for autumn/winter 2025 and its sexy and sophisticated with its fitted cut and sheer panels. Made from plush velvet, it features long sleeves and gentle pleating at the shoulder, which creates a gentle drape effect.
Style with: Gold jewellery and a faux fur coat.
Nadine Merabi Lydia Black Dress
Editorâs Note:
Nadine Merabi counts the likes of Molly-Mae and Michelle Keegan as fans and does the most stunning velvet pieces. This mini dress is made from sheer black velvet embroidered lace (the brand recommends wearing tonal underwear) and is the exact dress worn by Claudia Winkleman.
Style with: Stiletto heels and a clutch.
Rixo Devina Silk-Velvet Gown
Editorâs Note:
Channel timeless Hollywood glamour this party season in Rixoâs red velvet dress. With its high neckline, low back, and subtle side slit, it strikes the perfect balance between sultry and sophistication, and the sumptuous red hue makes it perfect for festivities.
Style with: Platform heels and a neck scarf.
M&S Velvet Mini Skater Dress
Editorâs Note:
A chic velvet mini dress for ÂŁ26? This hasnât landed in stores yet and I predict it will sell out quickly. The ultimate party-season staple, just add knee-high boots or stilettos and youâve got an effortlessly glam look in seconds.
Style with: Statement earrings and stiletto heels or knee-high boots.
Mango Velvet Dress
Editorâs Note:
Mango just dropped this velvet midi dress in the most beautiful navy blue. It features a subtle keyhole neckline, short sleeves, and an asymmetric front slit accented by delicate button detailing. The luxurious texture and fluid drape make it ideal for evening elegance.
Style with: Silver jewellery and an embellished bag.
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