Velvet

| What is velvet?

Velvet is a closely woven fabric with a short, thick, plush pile. Velvet is softest when woven from natural fibers, especially cotton. Velvet is synonymous with softness and luxury, especially since it was originally made from silk. Velvet used to be an extremely expensive fabric to make, and thus solely reserved for royalty and nobility. It originated in Baghdad around the eighth century.

Nowadays, there are several different kinds of velvet available depending on how the fabric is made and with what fiber. There is crushed velvet, panne and embossed velvet, stretch velvet (to which spandex has been added), and patterned velvet, in which the piles are cut to varying lengths.

| When should I wear velvet?

Velvet adds a soft touch to many different types of clothing, including dresses, suits, hats, trim, and more. We love velvet suits for winter for both men and women for a touch of luxury, especially for the holidays. Velvet dresses are also a luxurious holiday wardrobe staple. Velvet can also be used for home décor, like curtains and pillows.

| Maintaining velvet:

Cotton velvets may require extra care to maintain properly.

Does velvet wrinkle?

Velvet does not tend to wrinkle. The pile of the fabric will help resist any wrinkles that try to set in a garment. Any ironing that may be required needs to be done on the back of the fabric, opposite the pile. Ironing can have a negative impact on the appearance of the pile, which makes the fabric so unique.

Is velvet easy to clean?

Most velvet fabric is used in specialty applications, from tailored dresses or suits to drapes. These items will most likely need special care or dry cleaning. Some casual applications of velvet may be able to be cared for in a home laundry, but check the care label for specific instructions.