The Christmas party season is officially here, which means one thing: velvet is back on the agenda. With that in mind, we’ve spotted a gorgeous option at Boden that ticks every box – and we’ve found a way to get 15% off.

Boden’s Kate Velvet Shirt Dress is £129, but with the code RHDT, shoppers can pick it up for £106.95. That’s a decent £22.05 saving. 

The black version is already ‘selling like hot cakes,’ according to the brand, and it’s easy to see why. Equal parts comfortable and chic, the dress features sweet puff sleeves and a gently flared shape that cleverly skims the stomach (ideal for canapé-heavy evenings).

It also comes with a detachable belt to cinch the waist and pockets, which is a win for many fashion fans. It’s available in sizes four to 22, in petite, regular, and long, and in blue and purple for those who prefer bolder colours.  

To style, pair with strappy heels and a red lip for a classic Christmas party look. Alternatively, throw on metallic boots and statement earrings for something a little bolder.

Otherwise, add opaque tights and a tailored blazer for office-to-evening dressing. Or keep it minimal with black courts and sleek gold jewellery, letting the velvet do the talking.

Boden isn’t the only fashion brand with some chic velvet offerings. For example, Goddiva’s Draped Shoulder Velvet Midi Dress (£85) has a sultry, off-the-shoulder silhouette and structured corset bodice with built-in boning to help cinch the waist.

Alternatively, River Island also has some gorgeous styles to explore. That includes this Long Sleeve Feather Trim Dress (£69), which also comes in black and a daring pink hue.

Back to Boden’s Kate Velvet Shirt Dress, it has had some great reviews from shoppers. This person shared: “It fits perfectly, and the stretch is welcome – very elegant, nice weight to the material, and well-made.

“I’ve been searching for a dress suitable for winter parties, and this is absolutely perfect.”

Meanwhile, a second reviewer chimed in: “Perfect fit. I bought the blue; it is absolutely stunning and made me feel amazing. Thank you so much, Boden – my go-to shop.”

Not everyone was as impressed, though. This mixed review reads: “The cut is super nice, but the polyester materials make me sweat so quickly.”

On a more positive note, this Kate Velvet Shirt Dress fan said: “This dress is lovely, especially in the dark cherry colour. The velvet is stretchy and comfortable, and I enjoy wearing it.” However, they noted: ‘It is unfortunately not as flattering as I had hoped for my pear-shaped body.”

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Carole Middleton was snapped leaving Westminster Abbey in a glamorous ensemble as she enjoyed an evening of festive celebration in support of her daughter, the Princess of Wales, at her annual Christmas carol service. Now in its fifth year, the event has become one of the most anticipated highlights of the royal festive calendar. 

The 70-year-old’s presence holds particular significance given her long-standing role in Catherine’s life, especially as the Princess has stepped further into her senior royal responsibilities. Wearing elegant winter tailoring, Carole blended effortlessly into the high-profile guest list as she was seen exiting the Abbey’s doors. Her son, James Middleton, was also spotted at the event, alongside his wife, Alizée

The church was transformed for the occasion, with woodland trees flanking the entrance and wreaths displayed throughout the nave. 

Hundreds of guests, including community volunteers, charity workers and young achievers, arrived to take their seats ahead of the televised recording.

Performances from Katie Melua, Fisherman’s Friends and Griff formed part of the evening’s programme, alongside readings from Kate Winslet, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Joe Locke.

Prince William was also in attendance, and was snapped alongside the couple’s three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

The service, recorded for ITV’s Christmas Eve schedule, celebrates community spirit and the contributions of individuals across the country. The Abbey was filled with music, warm lighting and festive decor as rehearsals took place throughout the afternoon.

Carole’s appearance further underlined the Middleton family’s continued involvement in key moments of Catherine’s public life

This year’s service also coincides with 15 additional carol events being held across the UK on the same theme of togetherness.

The event continues to grow in scale each year, solidifying Catherine’s reputation for championing community work through high-profile, accessible initiatives.

The Westminster Abbey service will air on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve and again on Christmas Day.