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Awards season: the time of year when velvet begins to rear its head. While velvet suits and formalwear embody a timeless tailoring trope that’s long been the go-to — especially for suave black tie ensembles — recent times have seen the material crop up in its trendiest incarnations yet – causing quite the stir on some rather notable red carpets.
Once dismissed as a festive novelty, Daniel Craig changed the game with his custom Anderson & Sheppard double-breasted velvet tuxedo jacket at the long-awaited premiere for No Time To Die. Standing proudly against the rich scarlet of the red carpet with 007’s favourite Omega watch peeking out of his trouser pocket, the sixth Bond caused quite a stir on social media as he threw caution to the event’s ‘Black & Gold’ theme with his choice of a warm pink tone. And it seems like Craig’s veneration for velvet is far from a one-off in celebrity circles, with Jake Gyllenhaal seen strutting the red carpet in an emerald-green velvet Bottega Veneta suit, paired like a pro with a simple white T-shirt and loafers combo.
Of course, velvet tailoring is nothing new at high-profile events such as these – an honourable mention must, after all, be given to Donald Glover, who was ahead of this season’s trend way back at the 2017 Golden Globes. In fact, it’s not even all that new for Bonds – Sean Connery rarely shied away from a slick velvet dinner jacket in timeless films such as Diamonds Are Forever.
But we digress – velvet suits are well and truly back in the zeitgeist and here to stay through an awards season of dressing to the nines. Whether you’re in the market for a dinner jacket to wear with regular tailored trousers or a head-to-toe look a la Jake G, we’ve found options for every budget, from Reiss and Boss to Gucci and Bottega Veneta. The red carpet awaits…
Reiss
Available in two shades – black and navy – Reiss’ classic take on the velvet blazer will score you style points season after season. Ticking the boxes for all essential tailoring components, from satin notch lapels and buttoned cuffs to a back double vent and full lining, it’s best based on a foundation of white dinner shirt and bow tie for fashionable formality. £298. reiss.com
Ben Cobb x Tiger of Sweden
Ben Cobb and Tiger of Sweden's collaboration has been one of the best that the tailoring world has ever been blessed with, and it’s pieces like the ‘Ossie’ that make this partnership shine. Cut from caramel-brown velvet, this suit pays homage to the ‘70s and ‘80s, with an old-school single-breasted design and oversized lapels that throwback to the discos of yore. £750. At matchesfashion.com
Selected Homme
Searching for a no-nonsense velvet suit with a no-nonsense price tag? Then Selected Homme has quite literally got your back with this piece. Featuring a versatile slim-fit design, the shoulders have been slightly padded for a sturdier appearance, while the two-button fastening is simple and straightforward. Even though it’s on the more affordable end of the spectrum, you’ll still look a million dollars. We promise. £145. At asos.com
Marks & Spencer
High street hero and expert proprietor of posh biscuits, there's more to M&S' online selection than just groceries, you know. Enter the M&S velvet blazer. Cut with swooping shawl lapels and broad shoulders, this luxe pick has an air of vintage about it, all the while keeping things sharp and contemporary. £99. marksandspencer.com
Oliver Spencer
If you want to give your wardrobe a sartorial upgrade, Oliver Spencer should be on speed dial. Founded in 2002, the eponymous label has been creating some of the greatest suits in the history of the universe, and the ‘Mansfield’ is one of them. Made exclusively for Mr Porter, this one is decked out in a delectable green and is partially lined so it has a more relaxed profile compared to traditional styles. It’s also available in black and burgundy. £480. At mrporter.com
Reiss
Opulent and ever-so-slightly old-school in design, Reiss' Aspara blazer is the definitive choice for turning heads at all manner of formal occasions. Set apart by its retro-inspired, broad peak labels and rich construction, this pick is modernised by its vibrant teal hue and figure-enhancing slim fit silhouette. £298. reiss.com
Husbands
Embracing a touch of Parisian style is never a bad idea – and Husbands is the place to provide it. The French brand’s latest collection includes this single-breasted, burgundy velvet blazer: fitted with notch lapels, softly roped shoulders, horn buttons and straight flap pockets. Complete your evening attire with this piece for guaranteed elegance. £1,080. husbands-paris.com
