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Velvet, the swoon-worthy fabric for the holidays and winter as a whole. After all, who doesn't love the soft appearance and feeling of velvet? Not to mention, there's so many different ways you can style velvet this winter and so I thought I'd share some of my favorite ways starting with this holiday-inspired look.

I can't keep track of how many compliments I've received when I've worn this dress or how many times I get asked the question, WHERE DID YOU GET IT? The truth is, I got super lucky walking into Forever21 and without much digging, found this mauve velvet dress. You can shop my dress here. I had been keeping my eye out for a velvet dress to to wear during the holidays and to style/layer with other pieces in my wardrobe all while striving to find one that was simple in style, affordable but also made a statement.

What I love the most about this dress is the fit, color and detailing. Mauve is often a very flattering shade for most to wear in velvet since it appears very feminine.

The style of the dress is simple and appropriate for so many different occasions. It is more low cut in the front but the camisole straps, looser fit and knee-length style makes it flexible to wear during the day or at night. The back detailing is my favorite part of the dress. The criss-cross straps is a subtle way to make a statement and draw attention to the back.

To style this look for a holiday occasion, I wanted my focus to be on the complimenting accessories. I paired my lace Forever21 choker with this dress as it adds a feminine statement to this overall look. For shoes, I chose my metallic Zara oxfords over a pair of heels (but those are certainly an option). Oxfords are a great alternative to heels because they can still be dressed up but also tend to be more comfortable and a little more casual than a pair of heels. I love pairing metallic with velvet because they are both such showstoppers in an outfit on their own but also tend to compliment each other nicely.

For layering and an additional way to glam up your look, you can never go wrong with a leather jacket. I'm wearing my Nordstrom leather jacket with subtle frontal detailing. The hardness of a leather jacket paired with the softer fabric and appearance of velvet is a winning combination for the holidays!