Fashion business makes velour hip
Madonna's husband Guy Ritchie showed up in a velour track suit coupled with nice shoes (in what is called "athleisure" -- the mixing of athletic wear with better separates) at the premiere of Swept Away, a good indication of how hip this material has become these days according to this New York Times story (registration required):
Velour -- whose name derives from the Latin word villus, for "shaggy hair" -- is a closely woven or knit fabric whose fibers and fluffy pile distinguish it from velvet and velveteen. It traces back as far as 18th century French royalty. Napoleon favored a gold-studded velour robe. It leapt into the 20th century as a staple of the "Star Trek" cast, as well as performers such as Elvis Presley and Andy Gibb. In the '70s, athletic companies such as Adidas brought it to the masses, causing some folks to disdain its main style, the jogging suit, as tacky disco leisurewear.
Velour's current revival sprang from urban precincts, as hip-hop lines such as Phat Farm and Fubu took to dressing rotund rappers in baggy velour pants and long, loose tunics. The fabric's insouciant drape made it easy to move and dance in. Its distinctive sheen played well both to the camera and club lights.