10 Velvet Outfit Ideas to Embrace Luxe Vibes This Winter

If you’re looking for ways to brighten up your style amidst a string of cold, dark days, velvet is a staple in most winter wardrobes for a reason. The fabric has always been popular for holiday parties and cold weather thanks to its warm, lush texture, helping you maintain cozy vibes all season long. But while it never quite goes out of style, the material is having an on-trend moment this season, as countless brands are offering both classic and innovative takes including dresses, shirts, suits, and accessories. Whether you’re looking to dress up for an event or finding ways to add velvet to your outfit rotation, we’re here to help. Ahead, see 10 velvet outfit ideas to help you wear winter’s favorite fabric. 

On the Town 

Just because winter is here doesn’t mean you can’t show off a little skin. The weather outside may be frightful (and warrant a good coat), but underneath, get playful with a backless velvet dress like the mini that Ashley Graham wears here. The cozy fabric and cut-out pieces balance each other out to keep you feeling festive whether you’re at a house party or chic cocktail bar. Consider statement shades like lilac or hot pink to elevate the look. 

Emerald Elegance

When it comes to holiday parties and New Year’s Eve bashes, velvet is a rich, luxurious material that can make a statement as part of almost any look. Turn heads at your next event with a velvet maxi dress in a dark emerald or teal shade. Add a matching fur wrap to create an old money vibe, then top it off with strappy heels and a few sparkly jewelry pieces. 

Be the Gift 

Velvet is a dramatic fabric in its own right, but you can always get even more playful, as Kiernan Shipka does here with a micro-mini silhouette and a bold single sleeve. Create an unforgettable statement with a velvet one-shoulder mini or puff-sleeve dress. Add some fun heels and a sweet velvet bow for a coquette touch.

Suits You Well 

If you’ve had enough velvet dresses in your closet or looking for something different, consider trying a velvet suit to dress up your look during parties and important events. You can try a black version for a classic look, or opt for a print like Taylor Swift’s for a statement look worth celebrating. 

Jump to It 

If a suit is a little too formal, go the statement route with a velvet jumpsuit. The playful yet put-together silhouette is adequately dressed-up to wear to important parties and events, yet fun and casual enough to wear on first dates or when getting drinks with friends. Jumpsuits will make you feel cool and confident, especially when you jazz them up with bold jewelry pieces and prints. 

Classic Elegance

Of course, you can never go wrong with a little black dress: It’s timeless, effortlessly chic, and you have infinite options to dress it up or down with a bit of creative styling. Investing in a high-quality piece here will serve you well, as you’ll be able to wear and rewear it for years to come. With the right shoes (mesh flats for winter, anyone?) and statement accessories, you’ll feel party-ready in no time.

Fiery Statement 

Red continues to be a major color trend (not to mention a constant favorite during winter and the holidays), so take the hue for a monochromatic spin to stand out this season. A form-fitting red velvet dress with coordinating heels and some plush velvet opera gloves can make you the star of any scene. 

Velvet Underground 

Velvet can also work beautifully as an accent piece to add intrigue to any outfit. Pair an embellished black velvet vest with some leather shorts for a edgy rocker vibe. Add some tights, a statement bag, and a big coat to balance cold-weather practicality with head-turning statements. With a look like this, you’re more than ready to be the main character at a concert, night spent dancing at the club, or any other event.

Textural Masterpiece 

While velvet is especially popular around the holidays and in formal looks, you don’t have to save it for special occasions. Accessories in the material can easily elevate your daily looks, especially if you’re mixing different textures. A good velvet blazer pairs impeccably with a light-colored turtleneck and a fleece maxi skirt to create a chic and cozy ensemble for work or running errands.

Everyday Drama 

While velvet is often at home in more formal contexts, you can easily make a dramatic dress work for a regular dinner date or hanging out with friends. Pair a turtleneck velvet maxi dress with a black leather jacket for a chic but laid-back ensemble. Add some oversized shades for a final touch of effortless cool.