Velvet

Velvet is a classic fabric (often made from silk, though cotton and other fibres can be used but results in a slightly less deluxe fabric.) It is considered lavish and a seal of quality. It has succeeded in maintaining its aristocratic allure for centuries from the luxurious attire of Renaissance queens, to the autumn/winter catwalks of 2010 with a modern revival from the likes of Alexander Wang and Dolce & Gabbana.

In the winter of 1932 velvet triumphed in the creations of almost every French couturier; from Paquin and Lanvin to Chanel and Mainbocher. It was this decade where the fabric was translated into something more desired and attainable from a fashion perspective.

The return of the hourglass silhouette and opulence were the current apparel of femme fatales adorning cinema screens. With the innovative invention of the bias cut in full swing, ladies were able to traverse in elegance with an allowance of swaying fabric and sensuous gait, paying homage to on-screen idols with the added intrinsic qualities of the fabric itself. One such heroine; Greta Garbo, offered an endless aspiration source, wearing a blue velvet dress in the popular film “Inspiration” playing Yvonne Valbert - thus pushing the desperation for the textile further.

In the history of fashion, velvet has never gone out of style or disappeared from the market. Velvet has been revitalised this season and has once again become a must have piece injecting romance to this season’s minimalist and conservative outfits. With designers like Ralph Lauren and Zac Posen implementing rich pallets such as burgundy wine, woodland greens, midnight blues and classic black, women will be left feeling undeniably luxurious this fall.