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Monday 26 November 2012
Wednesday 31 October 2012
Velvet an Autumn Essential
It is a fact that with any economic recession
a trend for reassurance and robust solidness moves in quickly, it becomes part
of our daily life without us even noticing. Who wants to experiment with risky “investments”
when uncertainty is the forecast? “I
rather have a tea please!” No wonder during recession times tea mugs are top
sellers.
The History
With fashion being the place where art meets
psychology, it is therefore no wonder Velvet is on the way back. For a long
period velvet was a possession
of the rich and royal; a sumptuous, luxurious fabric that gave those who wore it the feeling of comfort, solidness and significance. - King
Richard II of England dictated in his will that his
body should be clothed in velveto in 1399.
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Charcoal Velvet by Paul Smith |
There are many theories on where Velvet
originated from. But most people agree that it originated somewhere in the Far
East, was carried along the legendary Silk Route by Arabs to Europe and the
rest is history. Most people also agree that “Men and Velvet” are a good
combination... no need to mention film stars sporting it on and off the big
screen throughout the times constantly.
The effect on women
My first Velvet was bought 8 years
ago because my ex girlfriend (a shoe designer) said: “A man has to have a
velvet jacket”, I also noticed a good friend of mine (a fashion buyer for a top
end fashion brand) making that sound of pleasure “hmmm” while running her
fingers over the jacket while my new girlfriend (a trade finance specialist) got quite excited when she discovered the velvet jacket in my wardrobe.
I dare
say velvet is the fabric that goes in and out of trend more often but it is
also the one you go to when in need of that “extra oomph”. With most top end
fashion brands gambling on it, Velvet is no doubt an Autumn Essential, making
it the best “investment” for your wardrobe this season.
What's on offer
With every comeback there’s something new and
this time the twist is on the amazing colours and the bold prints over the fabric’s
luxurious texture, so here you have a few pieces worth checking out:
Richard James has this amazing deep turquoise
jacket which is a breath of fresh air from the traditional dark colours.
Paul Smith is promoting the modern day dandy
using navy velvet side pockets and upper lapel on a velvet charcoal jacket.
![]() |
Wish-list item: McQueen's blazer |
Alexander McQueen makes an artistic approach
by adding a white mini polka dot paint print over black velvet. – The jacket is
incredible; consider the waistcoat as well, it’s amazing!
Also by McQueen a blazer with an all-over
deep rich brown check print, feels luxurious and elegant. - consider the
trousers as well; whether together as suit or separate they are one of a kind!
![]() |
Navy Velvet by Joseph |
Take a look at Joseph’s navy blazer with
patched pockets radiating an understated classy look. The round leather elbow pads
adding a touch of countryside rough may sound strange but got to be seen to be
understood.
![]() |
Duchamp in burgundy |
Herringbone velvet? Yes that’s it! In a
dashing burgundy tint for those who want to impress. This dinner jacket is Duchamp’s
look for this season’s essential piece.
The perfect luxurious deep brown, the perfect
classic fit, the perfect timeless velvet jacket by Prada is an investment for
years to come.
![]() |
Burberry oozing British coolness |
Pale Gun Metal is the name Burberry gave to
one of their velvet jackets, referring to its colour and together with the soft
stitching around the lapel it transpires alluring unpretentious cool.
Do you want to defy formal evening wear?
Geives & Hawkes has the most exquisite black velvet dinner jacket.
Last but not least to get that perfect black
velvet jacket with a touch of retro softness and perfect lapel stitching,
Armani Collezioni is what you are looking for. Another “investment” into your
wardrobe which I am sure you will return to when in need of something special
but understated.
![]() |
Armani Collezione - Investment piece |
If like me you don’t like losing the day
walking around in and out of shops, all of the above and plenty more “velvet”
can be found at Selfridges. Helpful pretty shop assistants can also be found there too.
Article: Joao Q.
Labels:
Alexander McQueen,
Armani Collezione,
Burberry Prorsum,
Duchamp,
Geives Hawkes,
Joao Q.,
Joseph,
menswear,
Paul Smith,
Prada,
Richard James,
Selfridges
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