Here’s why you need a velvet jacket this party season
Whether it’s a classic black blazer or a double-breasted, tartan-trimmed dinner jacket, here’s why you should invest in a textured tuxedo…
Words: Jonathan Wells
Here come the gladrags. It’s been almost two years since we enjoyed a slap-up, tinsel-trimmed party season — and we’re hoping that this year’s return to Christmas festivities will be as exciting and exuberant as possible. From satin to sequins, there are few better ways to dazzle than with bold eveningwear. And your best bet? Velvet.
A velvet jacket is the perfect option for any merry-making men-about-town this winter. The softly brushed fabric will add a hint of distinctive, dandyish style to even the most trimly tailored, traditional tux — and velvet can also add a welcome splash of colour to a seasonal sea of black tie.
But, as with any style statement, there are a couple of rules to follow. We wouldn’t, for example, advise buying a jacket with colour-contrast lapels. If your jacket is black, keep them black. If it’s navy, stick to that. Trims and finishes can be cut from different materials (silk, say) but you should always keep things colour-coordinated. We’d also avoid anything too bold or bombastic. Think decadent colours; deep, rich tones that will complement your black trousers and bow tie.
Other than that, feel free to express yourself. Whether it’s the unique cord detailing of Turnbull & Asser’s evening jacket, the double-breasted cut of Ralph Lauren’s offering or the subtle shawl neck collar of Suit Supply’s handsome green option, the velvet jacket is a must this party season. Here are six of the best…
Thom Sweeney Velvet Dinner Jacket
In aptly-named ‘Midnight’, this dark blue jacket will have you turning heads well into the early hours. From Thom Sweeney, it may have been cut from an Italian-made velvet — but otherwise sticks quite closely to the traditional dinner jacket design. That means a single-breasted silhouette, classic satin trim and sharp peaked lapels.
Reiss ‘Ace’ Velvet Blazer
For a more affordable option, why not look to Reiss? The British brand’s ‘Ace’ blazer has similar styling cues to the Sweeney jacket above — think single-breasted cut and satin trim — but its slick black colour aligns it closer to classic black tie. If you’re looking to put a twist on the traditional (but don’t want to stick out too much) this is a good bet.
Turnbull & Asser Velvet Smoking Jacket
Another English-made option, Turnbull & Asser’s luxurious velvet smoking jacket has a price tag to match its quality construction. But, with its tailored fit, twin-back vent and distinctive braid toggle fastening, we’d say it’s an investment worth making. The best part? It has seven pockets, including a handy ticket pocket and suitably sybaritic cigar pocket.
New & Lingwood Burgundy Velvet Jacket
Boldly burgundy, this is as colourful as a traditional velvet jacket can get. Vibrant — without tipping over into vivid — New & Lingwood’s 100% cotton offering is a true statement piece that really comes to life under the post-party moonlight. On its inside, the pocket jets are even trimmed with exclusive patterned silks from the idiosyncratic British brand.
Ralph Lauren Tartan Velvet Jacket
Another eye-catching option, Ralph Lauren’s tartan velvet jacket is not only cut from characterful material — but it also boasts a double-breasted design. You’ll need to have a certain body type to pull this one off, but if you chest is built-up and broad enough, that plaid pattern and those cross-body buttons will look a treat making an entrance at any event.
Suit Supply Green ‘Washington’ Jacket
Finally, a festive green. Tailored slim and with lightly padded shoulders, there is a composed nonchalance stitched into every velvet seam of Suit Supply’s ‘Washington’ jacket. With a soft shawl lapel, silk-trimmed jetted pockets and half-canvas construction, it’s as lightweight as a velvet jacket can be — and utterly versatile as a result.
Need a new pair of shoes to wear with your jacket? Here’s why every man should own a good pair of Oxfords…
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