If you loved the lace-trim silk shorts trend, there's no need to wait until summer to bring the sexy yet sophisticated look back. The cold-weather cousin of the style that dominated warm-weather season is here: lace-trim velvet shorts. Think of them as the dressier, more seasonally appropriate evolution of the popular lingerie-inspired pairs. With plush fabric and more coverage (especially when paired with tights), the look is winter-ready and just as fun thanks to the way the light-catching velvet plays with wool sweaters and winter coats.
Reformation’s Fern velvet shorts are basically the blueprint for the trend, a vintage-inspired, dressed-up take on the brand’s viral satin shorts. Equal parts polished and party-ready, the style, which comes in two colorways, combines a high-rise, A-line silhouette with delicate lace peeking out at the hem.
Shop Reformation's Fern Velvet Short
For a night out, style velvet shorts with sheer tights, a fitted turtleneck, and kitten-heel slingbacks. Finish with a shoulder bag in an equally luxe fabric (see: satin or patent leather) and a statement earring, and you’ve got an easy party outfit that feels fresher than yet another minidress. If your style preference leans more tailored, swap that high-neck long-sleeve knit for a silky camisole and layer it underneath a tuxedo-style blazer; the mix of sharp suiting and romantic lace is very cool-girl coded.
Don’t sleep on daytime styling, either. Dress down a pair of velvet shorts with a chunky cable-knit sweater and flat knee-high boots for a cozy but elevated weekend look. For the office, try them with opaque tights, loafers or Mary Janes, and a crisp button-down. On extra-cold mornings, top everything with an oversize longline coat or faux-fur jacket for bonus texture-on-texture appeal.
Some sizes of the Fern Velvet Short are already marked “low stock,” so don’t wait long to add either the black or almond (or both) to your cart. (If your size does sell out, don't fret. Shopbop also has sizes in stock.) If the satin and silk lace-trim shorts trend was any indication, this winterized version is the next look to covet.
Shop More Velvet-and-Lace Items
Another lace-trim velvet pair, this pleated style, from the Zara x Kate Moss collaboration, comes in a sweet pastel hue that could easily transition into spring.
Date-night ready, this minidress could also double as a striking New Year’s Eve party or Valentine's Day look.
In a rich olive hue, this simple cami will make any outfit feel special occasion.
For the minimalists, a velvet skirt with a lace trim is a subtler alternative to the shorts trend.
For nights that call for something extra but not overdone, this velvet dress with lace detailing fits the bill.
This piece is a two-in-one: You can wear it as a minidress or a top.
If shorts aren’t on your winter fashion bingo card, these lace-trimmed velvet pants are just as fun.
A top that can take any jeans into night-out territory.
Channel Old Hollywood glam in this V-neck, puff-sleeve stunner.
With its cozy silhouette and glam fabric, this top has the perfect balance of style and comfort.
A black velvet dress is winter fashion's MVP.
Proof that cozy and glamorous can coexist. This color is a nice take on a neutral.
The kind of skirt you plan the rest of the outfit around.
Wear this midi dress on its own or style with a sweater on top.
Dress up this skirt with a silk tank top and stiletto boots for a night out, or dress down with a blouse and pumps for work. The styling potential is limitless.
A velvet top for Zoom meetings, dinner, and everything in between.
From desk to dinner, this is an everyday velvet skirt you can (and should) style a hundred ways.
A simple (and affordable) velvet cami to layer under blazers. The cream color is a refreshing alternative to all the black and brown velvet on the market.
Warning: may cause excessive “Where did you get that dress?” questions.
Fitted velvet top that’s ideal for high-waisted pants.
Little black dress, major velvet upgrade.
A velvet miniskirt you’ll wear on repeat with everything from boots to heels.
Nothing says party season (or Valentine's Day) like a bow detail.
Not just for winter, this velvet cami can stay in your rotation year-round.
A velvet dress that works for both parties and winter weddings.
The puff sleeves and the Peter Pan collar add a touch of festiveness to an otherwise simple blouse silhouette.
The kind of piece you’ll rewear every season, every year.