If you think you’re over velvet, think again: velvet is undergoing the most celebrated renaissance this season from runway to high street. Whether it’s Seventeenth Century baroque-style grandeur or 20’s swinging opulence, designers took utmost advantage of velvet’s innate luxurious nature, and used the plush material as a medium to showcase their creativity and sentimental longing a glorious past.

As if the plush and silky texture of velvet was not enough, designers seamed and accessorized velvet with even more lavish materials – House of Holland added a voluminous Mongolian fur collar to its utilitarian mini dress, and Antonio Marras unexpectedly paired its intricate and feathery lace-paneled coral velvet tiered dress with fur slippers. On top of the waggish makeup, Maison Margiela further added a hint of drama to the velvet polka-dot burnout dress with a feather hat and neon orange gloves. Head-to-toe velvet ensembles also made a powerful impression this season. While celebrities endorsed velvet suits for the red carpets, designers took inspirations from elsewhere, mixing east and west, old and new for the runway: Emilio Pucci went for a royal gentlewoman look – a v-neck deep royal blue velvet blouse with ribbons and ruffle cuffs handsomely matched with a pair of wide-legged trouser and red suede heels. The Victorian-chola girl was introduced on the catwalk of Givenchy, dressed in a dark blue dévoré dress and a pair of cigarette velvet pants.

Whereas velvet is usually considered the most appropriate for an elegant evening look, the fancy fabric works just as well for daytime. Layer a cinched-waist velvet blazer over a turtleneck and a pair of jeans for a chic and sophisticated look. If you want to portray a more casual style, velvet accessories like hats, clutches, or gloves are perfect for adding a dash of luxury without overpowering your overall look.