Have you always thought velvet is too glitzy for you? Too Liberace-esque and so best left in the closet? Think again because this suave and swanky fabric is too good to keep under lock and key. But to look good in velvet means wearing it right. Here’s how to look super sharp in this most luxurious of fabrics.

Velvet only looks classy if it’s good quality. Avoid velvet made from synthetic fabrics, such as those produced in polyester and nylon. Products like these look cheap and nasty and don’t wear well either. Real velvet, woven from silk or cotton, is the only choice for gents with style. It oozes quality and authenticity and as long as you look after it, will keep you looking great for years. Velvet has that smoking jacket feel and a lot of people like it because it has a bit of a vintage look. Velvet looks best when you choose one smart, tailored piece worn with contrasting fabrics. Velvet materials are very seductive, so wear it with macho attitude. 

Casual velvet? Yes, sir” says Benjamin Fitzgerald at Dmarge. For less formal wear he says a velvet jacket makes a great alternative to a leather jacket. Velvet blazers play a melodic rock ballad without all that metal and unnecessary zip detail. For a dressed down look, pair your jacket with a plain t-shirt, simple silk scarf, dark trousers and a pair of Chelsea boots. I suggest you wear your velvet jacket with a denim shirt for a shabby chic outfit that still oozes style. For more formal wear, I suggest you to team velvet with a roll neck sweater for a jazzy, shirtless look.