Few fabrics make a statement as decadent as velvet. With its plush, smooth texture and lustrous appearance, velvet in any form gives off an air of opulence that’s fit for royalty. Velvet has been making dramatic statements for thousands of years, from King Arthur’s fur-trimmed robes to Prince’s embellished velvet suits.
So what’s the difference between velvet and crushed velvet? It’s all in the texture.
What is Velvet?
Velvet is a woven fabric characterized by its dense, plush pile, created using short fibers that feel luxuriously soft to the touch. The very first velvet fabrics, which date back to ancient times, were made from the finest silk, and reserved for the highest echelons of society. In the modern world, velvet can be crafted from a variety of materials, including common fibers like cotton, polyester, rayon, nylon, and wool. Once a marker of nobility, today’s wide array of velvet textiles make it simple for everyone to feel like royalty.
Velvet feels: rich, soft, indulgent
- Short, uniform fibers create lush softness, like the silky skin of a peach.
- The plush, cushiony texture feels warm and exceptionally comfortable.
Velvet looks: smooth, radiant, glamorous
- The silken texture reflects light with a subtle, elegant sheen.
- Its fluid drape is endlessly flattering.
Shop our Print Velvet in blue, purple, and red.
How is Velvet Made?
Using a special loom, velvet fabric is woven into two distinctly thick layers. These layers are connected by extra warp yarns, which are cut into two separate pieces, giving velvet its rich, satiny signature.
What is Crushed Velvet?
Crushed velvet is finished velvet fabric that has been treated to achieve a crinkled texture that looks, well, crushed. This finish involves twisting and/or pressing the fabric while wet, and can be achieved using heat, chemicals, or mechanical processes. The result maintains the radiant sheen of velvet, but adds distinctive variations in texture that look more dynamic and shimmery.
If you’re looking to distinguish crushed velvet from classic velvet, the main difference is the way the two fabrics reflect light. While both versions feel soft to the touch, crushed velvet’s uneven texture looks almost marbled or dyed in appearance, though the actual color of the fabric is constant. Untreated velvet has more of a classic, glassy sheen that reflects light evenly.
Shop our Tyra Crushed Glitter Velvet in black and navy.
How to Choose Between Velvet and Crushed Velvet
Your perfect velvet fabric is all about personal taste. Both varieties are ideal for fall and winter bridesmaid dresses, evening gowns, prom dresses, and special occasion attire, and both are available in a wide variety of textures, colors, and patterns.
If you’re looking for:
- formal romance
- timeless elegance
- high end glamour
- sophistication
- Princess Kate
We recommend the smooth luster of classic velvet.
If you’re looking for:
- modern appeal
- vintage rock n roll
- elevated casual
- something fun and bold
- Penny Lane
We recommend the textured vibrancy of crushed velvet.
Can a velvet blazer be casual? Yes. Can a crushed velvet gown be formal? Absolutely. The only limit is your imagination, and if you’re working with velvet of any kind, you can be sure that it will wow.
Speaking of imagination…. velvet has long been a staple of costumes, whether it’s for figure skating, dance, cosplay, or fun. Thanks to the many variations of stretch velvet, velveteen, and embellished velvet, this material is a stand-out choice for showstopping looks.
Browse our full catalog of luxury velvets to discover a wealth of options, like sequins, glitter, embroidery, burnout patterns, cheetah print, and more. At Zelouf, every version of velvet fabric is available by the yard, in-stock and ready to ship directly to you.
Think Outside the Outfits: Velvet for Home Decor
Shop our Stretch Velvet, available in 54 colors, from majestic peacock (shown in picture) to fine mauve.
Velvet has long been a staple of upscale decor for the home and special event spaces. Whether it’s the luxe look of velvet drapery, posh upholstery, or the plush, cozy warmth of velvet bedding, this fabric makes a bold statement with its lustrous sheen and ultra-smooth touch.
Velvet adds instant personality to any room, especially if you’re looking to make a major impact. Neutral colors like black, grey, or beige can make furniture and drapery feel more refined, while bright colors and funky accents can transform a room from basic to fresh in a flash. Remember the iconic orange couch from Friends? That’s the wonders of velvet at work!
How to Care for Velvet and Crushed Velvet
Apparel: When in doubt, hand wash with cold water and a mild detergent, avoiding bleach and fabric softeners. Do not wring, rub, or twist, then rinse thoroughly and lay flat to dry.
Furniture: Use a soft brush attachment to vacuum your velvet couches, chairs, and ottomans once a month. Spot clean any spills with a clean, damp cloth.
Find the Velvet for You
Velvet has the unique ability to elevate any silhouette, transforming a plain LBD into a luxe cocktail look; or turning a simple button-up into an elegant outfit-builder. Whether you seek the glamour of a ball gown, the everyday appeal of a statement coat, or the timeless look of a perfectly tailored suit, our extensive collection of velvet and crushed velvet fabrics is curated to inspire bold, elegant, and beautifully constructed garments. Our filters make it easy to shop by weight, fiber, or finish, and once you’re ready to commit, you can request a FREE swatch (plus shipping) to preview the color, texture, and drape before moving into production.
From established fashion houses to emerging creators, our velvet fabric collection provides a lasting foundation for ready-to-wear lines, editorial statements, and specialty garments. Shop our massive selection of crushed velvet, stretch velvet, glitter velvet, and embroidered velvet fabric, all available by the yard, and ready to ship directly to you.
