Jessica Howard Velvet Dress | Luxe Fabric Meets Timeless Elegance
Our Jessica Howard velvet dress delivers luxurious texture and effortless sophistication in one stunning silhouette. Crafted from stretch velvet with a subtle sheen, this dress contours beautifully through the bodice and flows into a flattering A-line skirt. Ruched detailing at the waist creates dimension and camouflages, while the knee-length hem strikes the perfect balance between cocktail elegance and everyday versatility.
Traditional velvet can be stiff and unforgiving, but we engineered our Jessica Howard velvet dress with a stretch blend that moves with you. The polyester-spandex construction provides just enough give to hug curves without clinging or restricting movement. This fabric also resists crushing — you won't see permanent creases after a long evening of sitting or dancing.
Sizing, Fit & How to Measure
This dress runs true to Jessica Howard’s standard sizing. We recommend measuring your bust at the fullest point and your natural waist — the narrowest part of your torso, typically an inch or two above your navel. Compare those numbers to our size chart rather than relying on your usual department-store size, since velvet’s stretch can behave differently than woven fabrics.
The ruched side panels provide built-in adjustability, so if you’re between sizes, the smaller option often works thanks to the stretch. The bodice features princess seams that contour through the bust and ribcage, while the A-line skirt skims the hips without clinging. Petite and plus-size customers report that the knee-length hem flatters a wide range of heights and proportions.
Care Instructions for Long-Lasting Velvet
To keep your Jessica Howard velvet dress looking fresh, turn it inside out and machine wash on a cold, delicate cycle with like colors. Avoid fabric softener, which can dull the pile and reduce stretch recovery. After washing, reshape the dress and either hang it on a padded hanger or lay it flat on a clean towel to air-dry — heat from the dryer can damage the velvet fibers and cause shrinkage.
If the pile develops any flat spots from sitting or storage, lightly steam the affected area from the inside while using a soft brush on the outside to lift the nap. Never iron velvet directly, as the pressure crushes the pile permanently. For long-term storage, hang the dress in a breathable garment bag away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Fabric & fit details
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Questions About Your Jessica Howard Velvet Dress
Yes, the dress follows standard Jessica Howard sizing. We recommend measuring your bust and natural waist and comparing those numbers to our size chart. The stretch velvet fabric provides some give, so if you’re between sizes, many customers find the smaller size works well. The ruched side panels also offer built-in adjustability through the midsection.
Absolutely. Turn the dress inside out and wash it on a cold, delicate cycle with similar colors. Skip fabric softener, as it can dull the pile and reduce the fabric’s stretch recovery. Air-dry by hanging on a padded hanger or laying flat on a towel — avoid the dryer to prevent shrinkage and pile damage.
The dress falls at knee length on most wearers, typically landing just at or slightly below the kneecap. This length works across a range of heights and looks elegant with both heels and flats. Petite customers report that the hem hits at a flattering spot without requiring alterations.
Our stretch velvet blend resists crushing much better than traditional pile velvet. If you do notice any flat spots from sitting or storage, lightly steam the area from the inside while brushing the pile from the outside with a soft brush. Hanging the dress in a breathable garment bag between wears helps maintain the fabric’s texture.
We currently offer the dress in classic black, deep burgundy, and midnight navy. All three shades work year-round and pair easily with existing accessories. The velvet’s subtle sheen adds depth to each color, so they photograph beautifully in both natural and indoor lighting.
Yes, the velvet fabric and elegant silhouette make this dress appropriate for cocktail parties, holiday gatherings, weddings, and semi-formal events. Pair it with heels, a clutch, and statement jewelry to elevate the look. For black-tie events, consider one of our floor-length gowns instead, but this dress handles most dressy occasions beautifully.
Yes, the Jessica Howard velvet dress features a smooth polyester lining that prevents cling and ensures the fabric drapes cleanly over your body. The lining also adds opacity and structure, so you won’t need additional undergarments beyond your usual bra and shapewear if desired.