Over the past few years, corduroy has gradually grown from a fusty fabric to a closet staple — it’s hardwearing yet elegant, making it a versatile fabric for everything from chore coats to suits. Corduroy’s more luxurious cousin also deserves some shine, and that’s why it’s worth considering adding velvet to your closet. While fine-wale corduroy can have the sheen of velvet, corduroy’s durability means it still has an association with workwear. Velvet, on the other hand, is all about luxury — you’re not going to do any work while wearing a velvet jacket.
A velvet tuxedo is somehow simultaneously more dressed up and more relaxed than its traditional wool counterpart, and velvet slippers are the kind of rare indulgence you might make when that tax refund hits. Likewise, velvet pants can be a great way to shake up your standard eveningwear. You can even find ways to wear velvet pants casually — a leather jacket, white tee and a Cuban-heel boot with a pair of slim velvet pants gives off a louche, rock-n-roll vibe. And while a full velvet suit might not be appropriate for work, but it works great for a night out.
These are the best velvet pants to buy. Just remember to keep a lint roller handy.
1. Frame Slim-Fit Stretch Velvet Trousers
BEST OVERALL
These pants from premium denim makers Frame have slant pockets, a flat-front and a slim fit, making them a wearable option that can be worn dressed up or down. They’re made from a blend of cotton and Tencel, which is an environmentally-friendly kind of rayon. Plus, there’s a little spandex for comfort. The dark “noir” color is a stylish and versatile option for nights out.
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2. AG Jeans Tuxedo Stripe Velvet Trousers
BEST SLIM-FIT
These velvet trousers from AG have a skinny fit, giving them a rock and roll look. These pants combine casual and dressy elements — the button waistband and flat front give a more casual look, while the velvet fabric and grosgrain side-stripe draw inspiration from tuxedo pants. Despite their dressy appearance, these pants are actually machine-washable.
3. Monfrere Brando Slim Fit Velvet Jeans
BEST COLOR
While most velvet pants are modeled after suit trousers, these pants from Monfrere are cut with riveted, front-facing pockets and rear patch pockets, drawing their silhouette from denim jeans for a more casual look. The reddish rust color adds to the throwback flair of the velvet jeans. These pants are also machine washable.
4. Boglioli Kei Tapered Cotton-Velvet Trousers
BEST SUIT PANTS
These pants from Boglioli are a dressier take on the velvet trouser, and they have a creased front and tab-closure, making them more similar to suit pants. The rich chocolate color adds an earthy appeal. The pants are 100% cotton and are made in Italy.
5. Massimo Alba Alunga Cotton-Velvet Trousers
ITALIAN MADE
These pants from Massimo Alba are cut with a straight fit in a five-pocket style, similar to jeans. The midnight blue color adds to the luxuriousness of the trousers, while the denim-like styling keeps them more casual. They’re made in Italy from 100% cotton.
6. GUCCI Webbing-Trimmed Piped Velvet Sweatpants
BEST LUXURY
These velvet sweatpants from Gucci take on a decidedly casual approach — the wide fit, elasticated waist and ankles and logo webbing on the side give these sweats a laid-back look. They’re available in either red or blue, although sizing is limited in both colors. It’s a bold look for sure, but that’s Gucci.
7. Favourbrook Windsor Cotton-Velvet Suit Trousers
ALSO CONSIDER
For a more traditional look, these trousers from Favourbrook have a straight fit, tab waistband and a creased front. The rich brown color adds a hint of luxury reminiscent of the ’70s. Favourbrook also makes a matching waistcoat and jacket. These are all sold separately, so you can buy a matching set or buy the pieces individually.
8. 2(X)IST Velour Joggers
MOST AFFORDABLE
Velour has the lustrous texture of velvet but is made from synthetic materials, so it’s more affordable. These joggers from 2(X)IST are made from a blend of polyester and spandex, so they’re comfortable for all-day lounging. The joggers also have a contrasting side-panel.