posted by teresa on
November 16, 2007
how to wear: velvet jackets
Velvet jackets are not just for nighttime anymore! Each November, designers put out their latest take on the velvet jacket and the styles range from casual to evening glitz. If you don’t have one in your closet, it’s a good staple to have — especially one that can go from day to night, like the ones featured below.

Because the weight and texture of velvet is similar to mini-wale corduroy, the pairings will be similar for daytime. Look at pairing a structured velvet jacket with jeans or a textured pant or skirt.
For evening, pair the velvet jacket with elegant fabrics such as silk, satin or even a stretch jersey. This will immediately dress up your outfit and make it more festive.
Featured jackets:
- Halogen Velvet Jacket
- Nanette Lepore Velvet Jacket
- Bella Velvet Jacket
Some others to check out:
- Blue Velvet double-breasted jacket at Anthropologie
- Black Velvet Blazer from Gap















November 16th, 2007 at 9:45 am
Theresa: Thanks for the rash of great posts lately! I own the green velvet Bella jacket you show in this post, but I’ve been having a tough time wearing it. I am a petite (5′1″) with an hourglass shape. I have the jacket in a 4P because the 2P was a bit snug across the shoulders (mine are a bit broad for 5′1″) and I couldn’t button the top button w/ anything underneath because the girls are a bit large for someone who is 5′1″. However, I feel like the 4P adds too much heft to me. It’s looser than I like in the back. The fabric poofs out. Should I chalk this up to velvet being a heavier fabric or should I take it to a good tailor and have it taken in along the seems throughout my middle (I have larger sized booty and hips but a small waist), or will I ruin the lines of the jacket?
Thanks!!!
November 16th, 2007 at 12:56 pm
I like the middle jacket. Pinstripes are so flattering!
November 16th, 2007 at 2:59 pm
teresa, thanks for answering my question! if anyone is interested in the bella but not sure how it will fit, i recommend calling jcrew’s customer service # (800 562 0258 )if there’s not a jcrew store in your area. they can give shoulder, bust, waist, length, and sleeve measurements for each size. it definitely helped me make my decision between a size 8 and a 10. cheers!
November 19th, 2007 at 11:20 pm
Hi Karen!!
How are you? Because you’re petite (even though the girls are relatively big) you can still wear velvet. With your body type you need to have it taken in on the sides at the waist. Go see Edel at Edel Tailors on 18th in the Castro. He is right across from Cala Foods and is quite good.
For those outside of SF, you can also check out http://www.paccprofessionals.org if you wish to find a reputable custom clothier in your area.
November 19th, 2007 at 11:21 pm
you are welcome Lynne!