How to Wear Velvet Pants, According to the Runways
2 min readWhen you think of velvet, what comes to mind? For me, it has always been a cozy-chic holiday fabric. But that’s no longer the whole story. Velvet has graduated from special-occasion dressing to an everyday staple.
Designers like Tory Burch, Stella McCartney, and Burberry have shown that velvet can live alongside the rest of your wardrobe, not just next to your holiday party picks. The texture is cozy yet elevated, which is why it’s gaining more creative freedom with every season.
The easiest way to start is to treat velvet pants like any other trouser you’d reach for on repeat. Pair them with a fine-gauge knit, a crisp white shirt, or a matching tailored blazer, and let the fabric’s soft sheen do the talking. Swap in loafers or flats for the day, then switch to heels and a silk blouse for evening.
With velvet’s texture already doing the heavy lifting, accessories can stay simple and fuss-free. Wear them a few times, and you’ll realize just how versatile velvet trousers can be.
Below, get the runway-inspired edition of how to wear velvet pants this fall.
Jeweled velour
Velvet in bold jewel tones, as shown at Akris, makes more than a textural statement. For the full velvet effect, pair your trousers with a matching blazer and a coat in an equally soft, plush texture.
Chic utilitarian
At Burberry, dark navy velvet pants were paired with a light beige rain jacket. The result is part sophisticated-chic, part utilitarian.
Preppy vibes
At Polo Ralph Lauren, wide-leg velvet trousers were styled with a knit layered over a collared button-up, a preppy look with a plush twist.
Romantic elegance
Consider the Ralph Lauren Collection approach: a romantic sheer ruffled blouse paired with a velvet duster coat.
Tailored velvet
Proenza Schouler’s tailored velvet suit pairs sharp attitude with a hint of playfulness.
Velvety stripes
Tory Burch proved that velvet and stripes are a perfect match. Pair velvet trousers with a simple henley tee, then add a statement accessory to finish it. A sculptural belt, dangly earrings, and oversized sunglasses give the outfit a focal point without competing with the velvet’s texture.
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