Until the Industrial Revolution, only the wealthiest could afford velvet because making it required extra yarn and steps. Once woven, the loops are clipped, allowing the fibers to bloom into the downy-soft tufted pile of cut velvet, which can then be finished in endless variations and designs.

Today’s fashion world has a crush on velvet with its luxe look and unpretentious comfort. Top designers are stitching up elegant gowns and gold-trimmed velvet slippers, as well as tailored jackets. Accessories have gone soft, too: vintage velvet chokers add elegance, velvet flowers tuck into lapels, and beaded velvet compacts add a touch of plush to the purse. In the home, the look translates to jewel-tone silk velvet pillows and slipcovers, sturdy stripes or other modern geometrics, and pretty ribbons and trims.

VELVET GLOSSARY
Know these terms:
• Ciselé velvet contrasts cut and uncut loops into sculptural designs.
• Voided velvet uses tufted or looped pile on a plain background material.
• Heat or chemically pressing creates embossed velvet.
• Chemically etched patterns are called devore velvet.
• Lustrous crushed velvet, made by twisting wet fabric, and shimmery panné velvet, produced by applying heavy pressure in one direction, give a more casual look.