Few fabrics have the sophistication of velvet – its enduring beauty has inspired fashion, décor and even songs for centuries! Is it the way it reflects light, the way it feels or the way it instantly adds glamour? Whatever the reason, velvet never seems to fall out of favour, but right now, it’s especially trendy. Let’s explore the wonderful world of velvet and how to add its allure to your home.

A bit about velvet. Velvet’s distinctive pile can be made from synthetic or natural fibres, including silk. Pure silk velvet is very rare and expensive. Cotton velvet is also available but of course, it’s far less luxurious. Most velvet today is made from polyester, nylon, viscose and acetate, sometimes combined with natural fibres. Velvet’s unique softness and appearance was historically associated with royalty, dating back as far as the 700s! Today velvet is still the pinnacle of elegance, yet it’s become infinitely more accessible.

Velvet upholstery. Furnishings made with velvet are oh-so-luxe, yet thanks to modern cleaning methods, surprisingly practical. Whether it’s a sofa, sectional, accent chair, dining room chairs, ottoman, bar stool or bed headboard, velvet is showing up everywhere in home furnishings! It’s often tufted or adorned with buttons for a traditional look. Velvet can be mixed with wood accents or metal, straight or curved legs, in various décor styles, creating many different vibes. One of the hottest trends is mixing velvet pieces with leather furniture – a sensual, masculine meets feminine combination.

What colours to choose? Velvet is stunning in any colour, but for this season, jewel tones lead the way. Emerald, sapphire, fuchsia, ruby, amethyst – rich jewel tones accentuate velvet’s dramatic texture beautifully. Mix and match jewel tones for a Bohemian effect. More of a neutral fan? Grey velvet is the peak of sophistication. Patterned fabrics of all kinds are popular too and add a touch of whimsy, making velvet – dare we say – fun!

Shy to commit? If you’re not ready for velvet furniture, why not try velvet accessories? Pillows are a great place to start or perhaps a versatile pouf for your living room. How about custom velvet drapes or a velvet duvet?

But won’t velvet wear? Today’s velvet isn’t as delicate it looks, but of course, it wears. But like many fine things, age enhances its attractiveness. Worn velvet has its own charm and suits the casual, laidback styling so many of us love these days.

Worried about overkill? If you don’t want your home to look dated or contrived, don’t go overboard with velvet! A show stopping velvet sofa, mixed with cool metal furniture, may be all you need! Juxtaposition of contemporary elements against velvet’s traditional beauty is the perfect mix.

One thing we didn’t mention, velvet is super cozy. With winter well upon us, that may be one of its best attributes! Add velvet to your home and enjoy!