How to wear a velvet dress in winter?
Velvet dresses are perfect for the winter season, adding a touch of luxury and warmth to your wardrobe. However, styling them can be a bit tricky. If you've just purchased a velvet dress and are unsure how to style it for the colder months, don't worry — we've got you covered. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best ways to style velvet dresses in winter so you can create chic, fashion-forward outfits that turn heads wherever you go.
Layer Your Velvet Dress with Jackets or Coats
First, pairing your velvet dress with the right outerwear is key to staying warm while looking chic. A denim jacket or a leather coat can help balance out the richness of the velvet fabric and give your outfit a modern edge. Just make sure the outerwear complements the color and style of the dress.
For a casual look, throw on a denim jacket and ankle boots — perfect for running errands or catching up with friends over coffee. Heading to a formal event? A structured blazer over your velvet dress with statement jewelry can create a sophisticated evening ensemble.
A long wool coat or leather biker jacket works beautifully. For a more relaxed look, try a faux fur vest or a denim jacket. These layers will keep you warm while adding depth and dimension to your outfit.
Choose Bold Accessories
Accessories are the finishing touch that can make your velvet dress feel complete.
Accessorizing with statement jewelry is an easy way to complete your look. Statement accessories can instantly elevate a velvet dress. Opt for bold necklaces, oversized earrings, or a standout belt to add a touch of glamour. When accessorizing, aim for harmony with your dress. For example, a black velvet dress pairs beautifully with gold or silver accessories, while brightly colored velvet calls for more neutral-toned accents to balance the look.
Scarves are versatile accessories that enhance any outfit. When styling a velvet dress, consider adding a scarf to complete the look. A scarf made of luxurious fabric like silk or cashmere pairs beautifully with velvet. You can opt for a bold color or a patterned scarf to add visual interest.
A belt can cinch your waist and create a more defined silhouette. So define your silhouette with a belt. Whether it's a wide statement belt or a slim, delicate one, cinching the waist can enhance your figure and add polish to the look. A metallic belt in gold or silver adds shine and sophistication, while a brightly colored belt makes a confident fashion statement.
Beyond shape, a belt can also introduce texture and detail to your outfit. If your velvet dress is minimalistic, you can make it more interesting by choosing a belt with embellishments such as studs, crystals, or patterned designs.
When styling with a belt, it’s important to consider the length of your dress. For knee-length or longer dresses, a waist-level belt works well. For shorter dresses, wearing the belt lower at the hips can create a more flattering silhouette.
In addition to defining shape, belting your dress can also help transition your look from day to night. For a casual daytime outfit, wear a simple belt with your velvet dress and pair it with ankle boots or flat shoes. For a more formal evening look, opt for a statement belt, high heels, and a clutch bag.
Overall, belting is one of the best ways to style a velvet dress in the winter season. It not only adds structure and sophistication but also transforms your dress for different occasions. Whether you're heading to brunch or a formal event, a belt can be the ideal accessory to elevate your velvet ensemble.
Wear Your Velvet Dress with Boots or Heels
Shoes can make or break your outfit. For velvet dresses, choose footwear that complements the fabric’s rich texture. Ankle boots, loafers, or classic pumps are all great choices. If you’re looking to stand out, metallic or brightly colored shoes can add a fun twist—just make sure they harmonize with the rest of your ensemble.
Ankle boots offer a laid-back, cool vibe. Not only do they add originality to your outfit, but they also provide warmth and comfort. You can opt for classic black or brown boots, or go bold with a pop of color to make a statement.
On the other hand, knee-high boots bring structure and style. For more formal occasions, heels are a great way to add height and sophistication. Choose a pair in nude, metallic, or complementary shades to your dress for an effortlessly chic finish.
Play with Textures
Yes, you need to remember that no matter how luxurious and beautiful the fabric is, if all the items over your outfit are made of this fabric, it will only make people feel boring. So don't be afraid to play with textures and colors. Velvet is a rich, textured fabric that pairs well with other interesting materials. Try layering your dress with patterned tights, wool leggings, or fishnet stockings to add visual depth. Mixing velvet with other materials like silk, knits, or faux fur can create a visually interesting and unique ensemble.
Try to find a color palette that complements the richness of velvet—deep jewel tones like emerald, burgundy, or navy work especially well. In short, all deep and rich colors will especially reflect the high-end texture of velvet. All you need to do is pick out the colors you like best and the ones that suit your skin tone best.
Finally, don’t forget to unify the overall color tone. Velvet is generally used in more formal or grand occasions, so we don’t recommend that you choose to use contrasting colors to add vitality to the shape. Instead, choosing similar colors to create a more unified style may be a better choice.Make sure the added textures harmonize with your velvet piece to keep the overall look cohesive and stylish.
Other Ways to Style Your Velvet Dress in Winter
Dress It Up or Down
Velvet dresses are surprisingly versatile. For a casual look, wear them with boots and a denim jacket. For a formal event, pair with heels and a clutch. Whether you're going relaxed or refined, a velvet dress adapts easily to any occasion.
Go Bold with Makeup
Don’t forget your makeup! A bold lip color — think red or deep plum — pairs beautifully with the richness of velvet. Add a touch of shimmer to your eye makeup for a festive, glamorous look.
With these seven tips, you’ll be ready to wear your velvet dress all season long — stylishly and confidently.
Embrace the Tights Trend
Bare legs in winter may be tempting, but tights are a smart and stylish alternative. They come in a range of colors and patterns, giving you plenty of room to experiment. Black opaque tights are a timeless choice, but sheer or patterned ones can add a playful twist. They’ll keep you warm and add visual interest.
Master the Art of Layering
Layering is a must during the colder months—it adds warmth, texture, and visual depth to your outfit. A velvet dress can sometimes feel heavy or flat, so layering underneath or over it breaks up the look. Try wearing a fitted turtleneck or long-sleeve blouse under your dress. Add opaque tights or leggings and ankle boots for extra warmth. On top, a cozy knit sweater or a structured coat adds polish while keeping you snug.
Embrace Timeless Classics
When in doubt, go with a classic. A little black velvet dress is effortlessly chic and versatile. Pair it with black pumps, a statement necklace, and a clutch for a refined evening look. Red velvet dresses are also a holiday staple—accentuate them with gold or silver accessories and heels for a glamorous finish.
With these tips, you’ll be able to style your velvet dresses effortlessly and make a statement all winter long.