If your party default is all black, then translating that to black velvet will elevate an outfit, catching the light and adding texture. It’s an untouchable classic and an endless source of inspiration for Giorgio Armani, Alessandra Rich and Paco Rabanne who all made a case for this timeless textile on the AW21 runways. But there’s much more to this rich fabric than nights filled with mulled wine and predictable playlists. A misconception is that velvet is purely a festive buy; a velvet suit or blazer will see you through to spring. Wear with a crisp white shirt for the office, then swap for a lacy camisole and statement jewellery if you’re headed somewhere special.

Main image: Alessandra Rich.

Rixo’s autumn winter 21 collection featured velvet kimonos. 

Black velvet dress, €295; www.maje.com.

Midnight blue velvet coat, Dorothée Schumacher, €895, at Samui.

Amber Bon Bon velvet mini bucket bag, Jimmy Choo, €795, at Brown Thomas.

Silver glitter knee-high leather boots, €795; www.victoriabeckham.com.

Blue Twenty 4 automatic sunburst dial steel watch with diamonds, Patek Philippe; www.weirandsons.ie.