Like it or not, it’s almost that time of year again when the party season will soon be in full swing. If you’re feeling especially bah-humbug about the whole thing, some of these shindigs you’ll be able to swerve, others maybe not. But what there’s no escaping, if your chosen knees-up demands it, is that you’re going to be the most dressed-up you’ve probably been all year. All of which means you’ll have to find something to wear that has a little more bite than your usual day-to-day suit.

SO WHAT SHOULD BE MY PARTY FABRIC OF CHOICE?

One particular fabric that will tick all of your party season boxes and was once traditionally the reserve of royalty, is velvet. Thankfully, in these slightly more egalitarian times, velvet no longer holds such lofty connotations. And perhaps most surprising of all for such a luxe fabric, it can be worn in any number of ways, proving its versatility to boot.

CAN I WEAR VELVET TO A BLACK TIE EVENT?

You most definitely can, and indeed should. For any formal events, break the mould and switch your tried-and-tested black tuxedo for one in claret or chocolate velvet. Not only will you be adding all of the extra bells and whistles needed at this time of year, but you’ll also be dialling up that old-school glamour too. All that’s required of you is a guarantee that your velvet tux is cut on the slim side and that you’re primed and ready to step in and play at being James Bond should the occasion require it. Vodka Martinis are entirely optional.

BUT WILL WEARING VELVET MAKE ME THE CENTRE OF ATTENTION?

Almost certainly. And if you’re something of a shrinking violet, one major downside to wearing velvet is that many of your fellow party guests will, without doubt, want to stroke you as the night wears on. The solution? Never forget that the devil is always in the details and the addition of a simple velvet bow tie worn with a more traditional tux will still more than pass muster.

WHAT IF MY PARTY ISN’T BLACK TIE?

If your soirée doesn’t require the above amount of swish, then you could always wear your velvet jacket as a separate instead. Break up your look with a lambswool roll-neck sweater. Or go one step further and wear it over a jazzy printed shirt. Finish your outfit off with your finest pair of black denim jeans and shoes, safe in the knowledge that your velvet jacket will make whatever else you’re wearing swankier by association.

All of which goes to show, that whatever velvet combo you decide upon, it’s the golden ticket when dressing for any parties you have pencilled into your diary. Just remember two things: arrive fashionably late and don’t hog the karaoke machine.