In India, the likes of style risk-takers like Ranveer Singh and Karan Johar have made the classic velvet suit mainstream by rocking it on the red carpet with effortless elan. And the recently-concluded menswear weeks in Milan and Paris saw the evening essential being reinterpreted in an of-the-moment avatar. Ralph Lauren sent out a three-piece suit with a matching shirt and tie in the same fabric and Dolce & Gabbana showcased an aubergine-toned double-breasted suit with contrasting sequinned lapels.
Other brands jumping into the velvet vortex were Emporio Armani and Brioni. While the former presented a sporty twin-set finished with a fur stole, the latter accessorised their evening jacket with a floral brooch. In India, this shine-on dapper piece has always been a red carpet favourite and looks like the spotlight on it refuses to diminish. Given the fact that it photographs beautifully on the red carpet adds to its allure. Thus, it also ends up being a winning weapon for stylists, always itching to let their star clients stand out.
A cocktail must-have
With pre and post-wedding bashes increasingly punctuating Indian shaadis, it’s not hard to understand why menswear specialist designers continue to toy with it. Designer Narendra Kumar, who recently showcased an athleisure-inspired collection at Lakme Fashion Week, says, “With the cocktail party increasingly becoming the main part of a wedding, a lot of emphasis is going to be placed on tuxedos. Velvet is currently having its place in the sun.”
Radiates a luxe feel
This smooth glossy fabric has always been considered uber-luxe and designers see it making a comeback in many forms. Designer Nikhil Thampi recalls, “Initially, we used to only see it dominating Indian silhouettes for men and women, but now because of the global reach of social media, people are aware of it and are experimenting with velvet suits. Especially in Bollywood, we have seen a lot of main leads adorning these attires which automatically becomes a cult following.”
