What Time of Year Is It Appropriate to Wear Velvet?

Styles made of soft, plush velvet are often linked to fall and winter fashions, but it's the weight of this material that dictates when it can be worn. The rich, soft-hand, natural-sheen, warp-pile cloth is made in a variety of weights and types, including crushed velvet, double velvet and velveteen. When creating your ensemble, adjust the heft of the velvet according to the season -- and skip the look entirely on humid or extra-hot days. Otherwise, reach for the right velvet and your piece can create instant glam or a downtown vibe.

Lightweight velvet in a soft-pile or crushed texture can be worn with confidence during cool-weather spring and summer nights. Designers usually cut velvet into miniskirts as well as short and cap-sleeved tops for warmer months. Pair the sassy look of a V-neck, mini frock with patent-leather, platform pumps. Avoid bulky or slouchy velvets and go for contoured silhouettes for a sleek look. Take a fashion risk and wear a velvet top in a bold, color-blocked pattern with jeans and pair the outfit with a metallic skinny belt.

Since velvet is associated with fall and holiday fashions, dress up a pair of jeans with velvet dress shirts or tunic-length blouse styles. You can also rock a satin blouse with a velvet skirt and knee-length boots. Reach for this go-to fabric in a color-blocked, knee- or ankle-length dress in a form-fitting silhouette. Create a hipster style wearing velvet-flared bottoms with a silky or lace blouse in a neutral color palette and add a splash of color with your accessories or a big tote bag.

Glam your holiday attire to the moon with show-stopping velvet shorts and a shimmery blouse. Add tights to your ensemble for a lean and put-together look. Don't be afraid to mix textures for your celebrations, including velvet and lace combinations. Dare to wear a menswear-inspired velvet suit. This cheeky piece of tailoring -- accented with a silk or satin blouse and tie -- will make you the center of attention at any holiday bash. Rich velvet will accentuate your accessory choice, so less is more when adding to this fabric. Reach for a toned-down, sleek necklace or an on-trend cocktail ring -- but be playful with the earrings, some sparkle can really stand out nicely on a velvet piece.

Guys can instantly change their outfits when they sport this rich fabric in a fall blazer. Layer the velvet blazer over a cashmere turtleneck and a pair of jeans. Don't forget to contrast textiles by adding a delicious, silk pocket square. If you're going to an evening event where you want to make an impression, don a shawl-collar, velvet suit or slip into a velvet smoking jacket. Finally, create a 20s vibe for a night on the town pairing a teal-colored, velvet blazer with your outfit.