In December there are a few key pieces that are worth the investment. Holiday trends tend to transition slower, read: gnome holiday decor is the hottest item 5 years in a row. Or better yet, Mariah Carey topping the 2020 charts with a Christmas song recorded in 1994. Wherever you celebrate and whoever you celebrate with, it is time to get on fashion’s nice list. There is only one way in. Pluck that holiday feeling from your closet. The name is velvet. Wear it while you are sleeping and awake.
Why velvet literally every year? Of course, there is a reason a fabric like velvet steps into the spotlight every Nutcracker season. The word velvet just sounds luxe and for good reason. Velvet goes way back to about the 13th century and translates to mean “pile of silk thread.” Velvet is greater than plain silk on its own because of the intense weaving process to make the fabric. All that looping and weaving deems velvet a fancy gal that is best worn for special occasions like “the holidays.” On a personal and less serious speculation, velvet is also incredibly soft which keeps the wearer cozy in the brisk winter months. Plus makes for great hugs!
Velvet is going to take all of your December looks to that next level. Let’s explore this in the order these parties appear on your calendar.
Office Christmas Party: Of course it is a challenge to make one single outfit recommendation for all office Christmas parties.There are so many jobs out there! But, velvet pants are a fashion girl’s way to fit any dress code no matter how formal or casual your workplace may be. For true business casual, pair high-waisted pull on velvet pants with a classic white button down, a pile of pearls, and your favorite boots (I’ve been like, too into square-toe rusted red midi boots. But that’s just me.) For a more modern workplace I’d unbutton the bottom few buttons and tuck in half the shirt and let the other half hang loose. This adds shape to the look and is very necessary for pants without belt loops. If your workplace throws a more formal soiree, go with the white tie of velvet pants: black with gemstone embellishment. Add a white fur coat and red lip. Mrs. Claus could never.
Christmas Shopping: So, yes it is winter but, no, that doesn’t mean we always want to trap ourselves in a giant coat! But, let me tell you: coats have never been cuter! There are so many options on the market for a lightweight jacket that technically functions as an extra layer but, really, it is worn as the star of the outfit. Most people probably wear these to the bars but I find a lightweight second layer essential to help me navigate the bright lights and crowds in stores while shopping. Also, let’s be honest, while Christmas shopping there is a 100% chance you’ll find yourself in a fitting room just to try on something you quickly decide you cannot live without. A lightweight jacket is easiest to take on and off.
The magical shopping coat is a varsity-style velvet bomber in more of a feminine pastel hue like mauve or lavender. She is ornamented with etched in chandelier-like designs that shine through the velvet fabric like a gem. Tasteful lace or beadwork can be placed on the back or down the sleeves. The slightly oversized shape that highlights a masculine shoulder makes the jacket casual enough to wear with jeans, your best tee, and comfy sneakers while buying for everyone on your list. Please and thank you!
Christmas Eve Eve: Or whenever you’re hitting the social scene, do it in a trendy velvet corset top. (Not an ugly sweater!) Any sort of tie situation is recommended. Whether it is two ties as the straps cascade down your shoulders, or a single tie in the back like a more traditional corset, velvet ribbons add a festive flair. Pro tip: jewel tones tend to be less corny than bright red which might make you look like an actual present. Teal, emerald, and amethyst are all very flattering. Pick your fave.
Christmas Morning: Your most famous pjs of the year may very well be your Christmas morning look. We love a sleek velvet robe over a slip dress nighty and big slippers. More of a pants gal? I gotchu. A full velvet button-down and pants set in maroon will look very cute as you indulge in stockings and sticky buns. Your fave quarantine sweatsuit turns into a holiday edition. Life is good.
Tis velvet season. Happy, happy to all who celebrate!
U r an excellent writer and beautiful person. It is uplifting and fun to read how clothes can become apart of what we feel. Velvet can be fun, sexy, warm, comfortable and rich; making g those who wear it,feel like royality!!