Smoooth Velvet

Alexander Wang

Velvet s a type of woven tufted fabric in which the cut threads are very evenly distributed, with a short dense pile, giving it a distinct feel. Velvet can be made from many different kinds of fibers. It is woven on a special loom that weaves two pieces of velvet at the same time. The two pieces are then cut apart and the two lengths of fabric are wound on separate take-up rolls. Velvet was expensive to make before industrial power looms became available, thus, it is considered a luxury good and associated with high status.

Chloe

Velvet is made, ideally, from silk. Cotton can also be used, though this often results in a slightly less luxurious fabric. More recently, synthetic velvets have been developed, mostly polyester, nylon, viscose, acetate, and mixtures of different synthetics, or synthetics and natural fibers (eg. viscose and silk). Velvet can also be made from fibers such as linen, mohair, and wool. A cloth made by the Kuba people of the Democratic Republic of Congo from raffia is often referred to as "Kuba Velvet". A small percentage of lycra is used sometimes to give stretch. The art of velvet-weaving probably originated in medieval Kashmir around the beginning of the fourteenth century.

Anna Sui

According to Style.com, velvet will be big for Fall 2010. So ladies, it's time to stock up on some velvet! Plush and warm, velvet is the perfect fabric to keep you warm yet fashionable. Traditionally, velvet is associated with nobility, feel royal while you wear velvet. Stretchy and soft, it will have you toasty in no time!

Rachel Roy