Velvet is coming back. While the fabric was not very popular after the turn of the century, the classic fabric is now everything. The term velvet actually does not refer to the fiber but instead to the structure of the fabric itself. Velvet is made with a special loom that raises loops or tufts of yarn.
There is a lot of debate as to where the fabric originated. The fabric has a strong association with European nobility but there are pieces of velvet that have been found dating back to several old Chinese dynasties. Iraq was also one of the first producers as well as Cairo, Egypt. Samples date back as far as 403 B.C.
Velvet was always for the wealthy. The fabric was usually woven from silk therefore making it very expensive but after the Industrial Revolution all that changed. It is now not only affordable but in case you have not noticed, it is EVERYWHERE!
Velvet has gained a special place in the classic fashions of other decades as well. For example, it fit in perfectly with the glamorous vibe of the 1970’s. Additionally, the 1980’s and 90’s had a love affair with crushed velvet and devore, and both were frequently worn by pop culture icons of both decades. Nowadays, velvet has been popping up quite frequently in many different collections. Crushed velvet has been popular in the midst of the trending 90’s revival, and many designers have been giving their classic or innovative takes on the textiles. Soft, drapey velvets in sweet pastels have been trending.
You just can’t go wrong with this fabulous fabric nowadays. We love velvet at Dyme Boutique and we plan on jazzing our diva’s up in velvet threads all year long! From velvet sequin booties to the full length velvet gown we are velvet obsessed and we hope that you love it too!