There are some trends that come around every Winter, velvet being one of them. It’s easy to see why this luxurious fabric is so popular: it’s soft to the touch, comfortable and easy to dress up. And yet, it took me a while to warm to velvet. It’s not always the most flattering fabric – body con dresses in thin, cheap versions should be avoided.
A couple of Winters ago I had my heart set on a black velvet jacket, but despite my best efforts I couldn’t find one that I liked. Most of the high street offerings were baggy and unflattering. I didn’t have a massive budget so I decided to bide my time. I’m so glad I waited because I found this jacket in a charity shop for just a few pounds! And then not long afterwards I picked up one in burgundy for a bargain price too 🙂
A velvet jacket adds a touch of luxe to any oufit and works particuarly well with lace, frills and ruffles. (I wore this jacket over a red lace dress for a wedding in March.) In the run up to Christmas those after work parties can mean dashing from office to bar…yep, that’ll be me next Friday! Although I still haven’t decided on my outfit, this jacket is a strong contender. I will probably wear a dress or jumpsuit, but for more informal after works drinks these culottes would be perfect. I’ve got to be honest, I had reservations about ordering these velvet culottes but as soon as I put them on I knew they were keepers. They’re as comfortable as pyjamas…and they have pockets 🙂
I love co-ords because you wear them as a set or break them up. Well I’ve taken the reverse approach with this outfit. Worn together, the black velvet jacket and culottes look like a suit, making it an office appropriate look. There’s a slight difference in the fabric making the culottes appear a little lighter and shinier. This showed up more on the photos as we had to use the flash, even though it was only 2.30pm…I really miss the sun! It also started to rain just as we stepped outside – you can see rain drops on my jacket in some of the photos.
As it was such a dull day I wanted to add some colour to the outfit, and what better shade than bright red? I’ve worn this red frill bouse more than I thought I would. You may remember it from the Style Not Age October challenge when I teamed it with coated skinny jeans and trainers.
SHOP THE LOOK
I’ve switched the tote bag for a clutch, which is all you really need for a quick day to night change. Of course, you could also substitute the blouse for a camisole if you feel too trussed up, but I’m loving high neck tops right now. I’m looking forward to trying this velvet duo with a black lace Victorian-style top. The clutch is actually the multiway bag from Zara, which can also be worn as a belt bag or shoulder bag. I love this three-for-the-price-of-one approach so much I bought it in black too!
The red and black combination gave me the perfect opportunity to wear my new earrings that I bought at the-Bias-Cut pop up in London a couple of weeks ago. I’ve got so many pairs of tassel earrings but these are by far by favourites. They’re so light and comfortable that I forget I’m wearing them. If only all earrings were like that!
Next velvet jacket (from charity shop, similar) | RJR.John Rocha velvet culottes from Debenhams (similar) | & Other Stories blouse (similar) | Mila Blu tote bag (similar) | red shoes (similar) | Dark Horse earrings (from the-Bias-Cut) | Zara multiway bag (worn as a clutch)
Maria of Passion Fruit, Paws and Peonies, Lisa of Coast to Coast and Bettye of Fashion Schlub!
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Great look Emma. Love velvet but it does have to be good quality as you say.
Interesting outfit! I’m not sure too many people could pull this off, but you definitely have! I love the pops of red! xx
Emma, there really is nothing quite like a pretty velvet blazer! I have a few and kind of want more! Such a gorgeous holiday outfit!
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
I just love black velvet! You look stunning!
Emma!! This is SO perfect for the Christmas season. The velvet is such a texture lovers dream, and then culottes are always great. I love them with tall boots especially!!
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
This is absolutely stunning! Especially with the pop of red 🙂
http://www.bauchlefashion.com/2018/12/the-top-5-must-have-holiday-flats-for.html?m=1
Well worth the wait I think. And as Gail has sad above the quality is key. I’m on the search for a deep green blazer style, but I want it to be good quality too. Like you say Emma it’s a trend that’s not going anywhere so it’s wise to invest I think.
The trousers that you’ve paired the blazer with are such a perfect match. You look brilliant in this outfit xx
Yes to velvet! You know I am a big fan and I have bought all or nearly all of my velvet blazers secondhand as well! You found a gem! I love the red and black mix and the cullotes look great on you! Love that little red quilted bag!
Happy Holidays Emma!
jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
sure makes a stunning suit. Loving everything about this
Emma, Thank you so much for choosing me as a favorite. I’m honored. Your red and black are stunning and the cut of the jacket is so flattering. I think the real headliner here though is your eyelashes. GORGEOUS!!! Have a wonderful week! XO
You look so elegant! I love the black velvet!
Lizzie
http://www.lizzieinlace.com
Emma, I agree with you. Velvet is so chic and especially if it is a blazer. The pop of color in both your top and accessories ( red) add a beautiful contrast to the black.
I love the bracelet and how it adds shine to your outfit. Just perfect for this time of the year.
perfection
http://www.chez-rama.com
I’ve always been a huge fan of velvet. I remember wearing the most beautiful black velvet dress with a sweetheart neckline one Christmas when I was in my very early teens. I felt so grown up in it lol!
You look stunning in this outfit, Emma. I adore the colour combination.
Hugs
Suzy xx
I always think red and black go well together, and you’ve proved me right! Well done on finding that jacket, will never go out of fashion and will always look fab. Jacqui Mummabstylish
I like the matching velvet! Those culotte pants are very chic!
Angela | http://www.lenorth.com
Emma thank you so much for feature – I am so thrilled!! Love your red frill blouse it’s so beaut against the velvet jacket, which is a great fit on you. Gorgeous sparkly bracelet too Emma! Thanks again my lovely xx
That outfit looks great. I love a nice velvet jacket in the winter.
This is such a classic—and classy—holiday look. Love the mix of black velvet and pops of red!
Cheryl Shops | http://www.cherylshops.net
I’m absolutely loving all the velvet I am seeing lately and that blazer is no exception! It’s gorgeous on you!
I love the velvet and the red and black combo, Emma! So pretty! Thanks for the link up! XXX
This looks is so elegant! I love all things velvet and this jacket is just beautiful.
Xx, Nailil
thirtyminusone.com
Such a gorgeous velvet jacket! Love it with the pops of red! Velvet is one of my favorite fabrics in the winter!
Carrie
curlycraftymom.com
gorgeous! I love velvet during the holiday season. You look so timeless and elegant!
Such a classic look on you dear. So elegant and feminine!
Jessica | notjessfashion.com