Chic Halloween: an outfit in black, velvet and lace

Halloween doesn't have to mean a polyester costume worn for just one evening. A black velvet dress, a lace top, a duchesse satin skirt: with the right fabrics, you can sew an outfit that plays along on 31 October… and that you'll wear all winter, for the festive season as well as for a dinner out.

Here are 5 ideas of pieces, and the fabrics to go with them.

1. The black velvet dress

Velvet is the most "mysterious" fabric there is: deep, matte or luminous depending on the light. A long, simple dress with flared sleeves is enough to create the effect. A black silk velvet gives a very fluid drape; a black plain velvet, with more structure, suits a straight cut.

Remember: cut all pieces in the same nap direction, and always press on the wrong side, on a towel.

2. The lace top on a contrasting base

Black lace on a coloured base makes an instant impact. A purple and black floral lace is ready-made: the black motifs stand out against the purple background. For a more classic version, a black floral lace over a nude base.

Remember: place the motifs before cutting, in a single layer, and use the scalloped edge for the hem.

3. The long duchesse satin skirt

A full skirt in black duchesse satin that holds its shape on its own, worn with a simple fine jumper: the look of a gothic film heroine, without the fancy dress. Black duchesse satin has just the right amount of shine. For a more shifting sheen, a black iridescent satin.

Remember: satin shows pin marks, so pin within the seam allowances only.

4. The cape

The cape is the easiest piece on the list to sew: a half circle or a full circle, a neckline, a fastening. In black Japanese wool crepe, it drapes beautifully and can then be worn over a light coat or an evening outfit.

Remember: be generous with the yardage, a long cape often needs 2.5 to 3 m.

5. Lace details

No time to sew a whole outfit? A collar, cuffs or a skirt hem in lace will transform a piece you already own. A black fishnet-effect lace trim can be sewn onto a collar or a sleeve in minutes.

Which fabric for which effect?

• Mysterious and deep: black velvet
• Romantic and gothic: lace on a contrasting base
• Dramatic: duchesse satin, iridescent satin
• Elegant and easy: wool crepe cape
• Express: lace trim on an existing piece

Our advice

If you're a beginner, start with the cape or a lace trim on a garment you already love: it's ready in an evening. And think "after Halloween" when choosing: a well-cut black piece in a beautiful fabric can be worn long after 31 October.

Fancy a chic Halloween outfit? Discover our selection of laces on sotissus.com or see them live on Instagram @sotissus_com!

Do you like the fabric in this article's cover photo? It's our purple and black floral lace — take a look!

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