Friends Like These Black Velvet Dress

I recently came across the most gorgeous black velvet dress from the brand Friends Like These and I knew I just had to have it in my closet! As someone who loves both fashion and comfort, this elegant yet cozy dress caught my eye right away.

But before taking the plunge and buying this Friends Like These black velvet dress, I wanted to do my research to make sure it would be worth the investment. Here is the complete buying guide I put together while deciding whether to purchase this beautiful velvet frock.

Where To Buy the Friends Like These Black Velvet Dress Online

The first step was finding out where I could get my hands on this lovely Friends Like These dress! The brand doesn’t have their own e-commerce site, so I turned to my trusty pal Google to locate some online retailers selling it.

Several major stores popped up carrying this popular velvet dress, including Nordstrom, Revolve, Shopbop, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Neiman Marcus. I always prefer to buy directly from a brand’s own website when possible, but since that wasn’t an option here, these major retailers were the next best thing.

Nordstrom had the best color selection by far, with the Friends Like These dress available in both classic black and a rich green color. Revolve and Shopbop also had a good inventory, while Saks and Neiman’s had limited quantities when I was shopping.

I decided to ultimately purchase from Nordstrom as they had my size in stock, free shipping and returns, and plenty of reviewer photos. As expected, the buying process was seamless!

The Cost of the Coveted Black Velvet Dress

Once I decided on a retailer, the next thing I looked into was how much this Friends Like These dress would put me back. The price was surprisingly affordable for such a high-quality, designer piece!

The black velvet version of the dress retails for $248 across all the major online shops that carry it. I’ve spent more than that for fast fashion dresses that weren’t nearly as nice, so I was pleased with the price point.

The emerald green colorway is slightly more expensive at $278. Still, I considered that reasonable for such a versatile, well-made velvet dress from a contemporary LA-based brand.

There are often promo codes and seasonal sales that bring the price down a bit further too! I scored an extra 10% off thanks to a timely Nordstrom code. With prices like these, the Friends Like These dress won’t break the bank.

Size Range and Fit

Before purchasing any piece of clothing online, it’s imperative to understand the size range and fit. One tricky aspect of buying this dress is that Friends Like These does not provide a size chart on their website or the retailer pages.

However, based on customer reviews and feedback, the dress seems to run true to size. Most people recommend ordering your normal size for the right fit. The velvet fabric has a touch of stretch to it, so I didn’t size up like with some clingier bodycon styles.

The Friends Like These black velvet dress comes in sizes XXS to XL. While I wish the size range extended into plus sizes, it should accommodate most body types in the straight and plus size range.

As I’m between sizes, I ordered both a small and a medium to compare the fit. The medium was a little loose in the bodice on me, so I stuck with the small for my 5’4″ frame. Those who are taller or curvier than me may prefer sizing up.

Perfect for Any Special Occasion

One of the reasons I was drawn to this elegant black dress is its versatility! The Friends Like These velvet dress can transition seamlessly from day to night, casual to dressy, season to season.

For a fancier event like a wedding, birthday dinner, or holiday party, I plan to dress it up with some sparkly statement earrings, black strappy heels, and a metallic clutch.

The flash of skin thanks to the mock neck cutout adds some subtle sexiness to this LBD while the long sleeves and midi length keep it sophisticated. I also think the rich velvet texture gives it a luxe, elevated look perfect for formal occasions.

But this dress is also easy to dress down! I intend to wear it for date nights with booties and a denim jacket when the weather cools off. Belted with white sneakers, it will be such a chic work or weekend look. The possibilities are truly endless!

Styling Tips and Accessories for Formal Events

If you plan to wear this show-stopping Friends Like These velvet dress for a formal wedding, party, or event, I have some styling tips to make sure you shine!

• Opt for a strappy heel or stiletto in a coordinating metallic. Gold, silver and rose gold would all work beautifully with the black or green velvet.
• Wear your hair up in a chic updo to show off the mock neck cutout detail in the back. Or go with big, glamorous curls.
• For accessories, keep it simple. Dangly statement earrings, a glittering clutch, and a bracelet or two is all you need.
• Add a touch of brightness with a bold red lip to really make the look pop. A smoky eye also pairs nicely with the rich velvet fabric.
• For colder weather, complete the outfit with a faux fur stole or cropped jacket to stay cozy while still looking utterly elegant.
• A metallic or crystal-embellished belt can cinch the waist for extra shape on this flowy dress.

Perfect Pairings: Ideal Accessories

Beyond fancy evening wear, there are so many ways to accessorize this Friends Like These dress for day-to-day wear. Here are some of my top picks:

• Knee-high or ankle leather boots
• Denim, leather, or bomber jacket
• Wide-brimmed felt floppy hat
• Circle or oversized sunnies
• Pendant necklace
• Crossbody bag or structured tote
• Skinny belt in brown or black
• Cozy neutral cardigan or sweater
• Fedora hat and booties for a cool boho vibe

I love how many different vibes you can create by switching up the styling. Everything from casual-chic to retro-glam is possible with the right accessories.

Reviews of the Dreamy Velvet Dress

Before committing to buy, I always like to know what real customers have to say about a product. Here’s an overview of the feedback on the Friends Like These black velvet dress:

The majority of reviews across all the retailers were overwhelmingly positive, with most customers awarding the dress 4 or 5 stars.

Many reviewers loved the luxurious velvet material, calling it substantial, high-quality and comfortable. Most said it fit true to size and had a nice amount of stretch.

Almost everyone raved about how flattering and versatile this LBD is. People loved dressing it up or down for everything from errands to weddings.

A few people did note that the velvet puckered slightly, and the long length caused some tripping. But overall, negative reviews were hard to come by!

The consensus was clear: this is one elegant, elevating dress that looks way more expensive than its affordable price tag suggests.

The Details: Fabric, Sizing, and Care Instructions

Digging into the product details and specifications is the key to determining if a piece of clothing will hold up well. Here is the intel I gathered about this lovely velvet number:

• The Friends Like These dress is made from a stretchy rayon and polyester velvet that is soft, substantial, and structured.
• It features a mock neck cutout and long sleeves with button closure. The silhouette is loose and flowy.
• Beyond standard sizes, Friends Like These does not currently offer petite or plus size options. The dress runs true to size.
• Always refer to the fabric care tag as velvet can be delicate, but generally it should be dry cleaned only. Steaming is ok for touch-ups.
• The retailer sites advise to hand wash cold and lay flat to dry if cleaning at home. Avoid ironing or bleach.

Based on the fabric content and care instructions, I felt confident the Friends Like These dress would live up to its quality reputation. Just be sure to handle gently and get it professionally cleaned.

Slay All Your Winter Parties in Velvet

As soon as the holidays roll around, velvet becomes my go-to fabric. It just oozes luxury and seasonal flair!

The Friends Like These dress will be perfect for all my winter parties, date nights, and festive events. I love how the inky black velvet shimmers in the light. It’s sure to be my most-worn LBD this winter.

I plan on rocking it for holiday parties with festive gold heels, a maroon lip, and delicate crystal jewelry. Maybe I’ll even accessorize with a glittering hairpin or velvet bow for some extra yuletide flair!

When worn with black tights, heeled booties, and a moto jacket, this will also make a chic winter first date outfit. I’m so excited to style it a million ways this holiday season.

Finding the Ideal Shoes to Match

Finding the perfect shoes to complement this Friends Like These velvet dress will go a long way in tying the whole look together. Here are my top shoe pairings:

• Sleek black pumps or strappy heels for formal events
• Metallic or jewel-toned heels to make it pop
• Classic black ankle booties with a block or stiletto heel for casual flair
• Patent leather or vinyl boots to echo the shine of the velvet
• Pointed-toe flats or loafers for the office or weekend wear
• Thigh-high black velvet boots for a monochrome moment
• Combat boots or white sneakers for trendy contrast

With so many chic options, from glamorous to edgy, finding the perfect shoes will be a breeze. Time to go raid my closet for all my footwear favorites!

Similar Stylish Velvet Dresses

As much as I adore this particular Friends Like These velvet beauty, there are also a number of similar stylish options to explore:

• The Alexis Galena Long Sleeve velvet dress has a nearly identical silhouette and mock neck for only $128.
• Revolve’s Likely Valencia Dress offers a velvet frock with a V-neck and front slit for $218.
• Veronica Beard’s Zip Dickey Combo velvet dress has a zip front and removable dickey for $450.
• For casual vibes, Free People’s Won’t Let You Down Velvet Mini Dress for $128.
• Racil’s Brooklyn velvet dress features a tie waist and front slit for a whopping $895.

There are so many gorgeous alternatives at various price points. But in my opinion, the Friends Like These version still provides the best quality and styling for the cost.

Unique Details Make All the Difference

Beyond the luxe velvet fabric, there are several exquisite details that elevate this LBD:

• The mock neck cutout shows just a subtle peek of skin while keeping the look still refined.
• The button closure on the long sleeves adds a dash of visual interest and versatility for folding or rolling up the sleeves.
• The dress comes in multiple rich jewel-toned colors beyond classic black. The emerald green velvet is stunning.
• The flowy A-line silhouette flatters all figures and creates movement as you walk.
• It’s designed and made in LA using quality materials. The velvet fabric never looks cheap or feels flimsy.

These meticulous details combined make the Friends Like These dress feel special and luxurious. It’s absolutely worth the price tag in my opinion.

Stretchy Yet Structured Velvet

One thing that intimidated me about buying velvet online was wondering how structured versus stretchy the fabric would be.

The velvet on the Friends Like These dress has the perfect amount of stretch and flexibility while still maintaining a lovely structured shape.

There is enough give so that it comfortably moves with your body. But the thick velvet still hangs beautifully with zero clinginess.

This is so optimal for a flowy midi dress you can feel comfy in all day or night. The velvet fabric truly exceeds expectations and looks far pricier than its affordable cost.

Deals, Promos and Discounts

Like any savvy shopper, I’m always hunting for a good bargain! Here are some tips for saving on the Friends Like These black velvet dress:

• Check retailer sites for any sales or promo codes you can apply at checkout. I got 10% off at Nordstrom using a seasonal code.
• Sign up for email lists from stores like Revolve and Shopbop to be notified of sales events and exclusive discounts.
• The dress will likely be discounted during seasonal events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and after Christmas sales.
• Shop resale sites like Poshmark and TheRealReal – you can often score designer pieces for 50% off or more.
• Use cashback sites like Rakuten for additional savings on top of promo codes and sales.
• Ask about price matching to get a retailer to honor a competitor’s lower price.

With some persistence, you should be able to get at least 10-20% off. Maybe even score free shipping!

More Figure-Flattering Colors Please!

While the black velvet version of this dress is undoubtedly classic, I would love to see Friends Like These release it in even more luxe colors.

I’m eyeing the emerald green they currently offer, but rich fall hues like plum, burgundy, mustard, or hunter green would be incredible.

I could also see it looking elegant in a midnight blue or deep red for the holidays. There’s so much potential with velvet to experiment with gorgeous colored fabrics.

Maybe metallic silver or gold velvet for New Year’s Eve? Even a velvet leopard or floral print would be fun and on trend!

Hopefully Friends Like These will expand the color selection in future seasons to make this timeless dress accessible to even more shoppers.

How It Fits on Different Body Shapes

Finding a universally flattering silhouette is the holy grail for any woman shopping for clothes. So how does the Friends Like These dress measure up on different figures?

Overall, the flowy A-line cut with a streamlined mock neck seems to complement most body types. Here are a few tips:

• For rectangular or banana body shapes, the velvet skirt creates the illusion of curves without clinging too tight.
• On pear shaped figures, the looser bodice balances out wider hips. Add a belt for a defined waist.
• For those with a shorter torso, the mock neck elongates the look of the neckline.
• Petite ladies under 5’4″ may want to pair with heels to avoid the dress overwhelming your frame.
• The long sleeves and midi length work well for those who prefer to cover arms and legs.

While not perfectly suited for every individual body, this dress is certainly more forgiving and versatile than restrictive, curve-hugging styles.

Final Verdict: This Velvet Dress Belongs in My Closet!

Well, this thorough dive into the Friends Like These black velvet midi dress has me more certain than ever that I need it hanging in my closet!

The quality velvet fabric, flawless fit, and chic versatile design make this LBD an ideal investment piece.

Finding stylish clothing that is truly seasonless, suits various occasions, and flatters most figures is easier said than done. Yet somehow, Friends Like These has achieved it with this perfect velvet frock.

At just under $250, I consider it a steal compared to many poorly made fast fashion dresses I’ve purchased for the same price.

While I will treasure and care for this luxe velvet beauty, I have a feeling it will be making many repeat appearances in my wardrobe rotation for years to come.

So if you too love timeless velvet and are seeking the ultimate LBD, I cannot recommend the Friends Like These dress enough! Add it to your closet and get ready to be flooded with compliments.