Shoppers in search of the perfect black dress have been snapping up a 'timeless' and 'classy' velvet option ahead of Christmas. River Island's £45 velvet asymmetric body con dress was listed among the retailer's best sellers last week and one reviewer was among them.
Bethan Shufflebotham wrote in the Liverpool Echo that the dress attracted compliments when she wore it, with admirers calling it 'classy'. She wrote: "The Black Velvet Asymmetric Bodycon Midi Dress, from River Island, comes in at £45, and everyone I’ve told says it looks ‘way more expensive’.
"Ticking every single box, this little black dress offers a festive feel, flattering fit, affordable price and is perfect for injecting some glam into your winter occasion wear wardrobe."
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Bethan continued: "Firstly, it's velvet and nothing says festive fashion quite like this. It's a beautiful quality and feels super soft to touch.
"Coming in sizes 6-18, the dress features a sultry asymmetric neckline that reveals one shoulder, as well as a split hem to reveal a little bit of leg."
River Island isn't the only retailer to carry black velvet dresses this season. Karen Millen offers one with a similar feel for £68 while Reiss has a black top version for £88.
Bethan continued: "In a midi length with short sleeves, it makes it perfect for a whole host of occasions. As a former shopping addict, I now ask myself to name at least three times where I can wear the piece I’m buying, and frankly I can’t think of a situation where I wouldn’t wear this stunning outfit.
"Last week, I wore it for a date night with my fiancé who even commented on how ‘classy’ the dress was. It’s undeniably elegant, and is a great pick for Christmas parties, theatre trips, and since I’m a December baby, I’ll definitely be making it my birthday outfit, too.
My absolute favourite thing about this dress is the ruched detailing, with elegant draping across the shoulders, to a wrap skirt that creates a ruched effect at the waist, which is very figure-flattering and accentuates curves that I don’t particularly have, giving me more shape."
