Trend of the week: Velvet

Fashion’s gone all touchy feely, says Annmarie O'Connor

Get ready to pile on this season’s plushest fabric – velvet. The grand dowager of textiles, velvet’s noble lineage (from China’s Qin and Han dynasties to 1920s high society) means it’s got serious staying power. Top tip? Invest wisely this autumn from a trousseau of devoré dresses, crushed trousers and Studio 54-inspired suits. Think of it as a long-term fashion love. Buy now, regret it never.

STYLE NOTES

LOVE LAYERING

Say ‘yes’ to a dress over straight-leg jeans and block heel courts.

FEEL IT

Incorporate tactile textures like faux fur, brocade and embellishment for after-hours elegance.

DO DAYWEAR

Give velvet an off-duty spin with classic white trainers and an oversized parka.

SPLIT THE DIFFERENCE

Divide and conquer with a velvet suit - perfect as a jacket and trouser combo or separately as anchors for different outfits.