At it's core, this is just a typical parlor drama of the thirties. All of the voyeuristic fantasy of the wealthy classes is on display for the masses. Largesse and a total lack of want or fear of it, pervades the film from start to finish. Even the disasters revolve around the objects of the very rich; personal airplanes, big automobiles, etc. George Brent plays George Brent and does it well. Kaye Francis emotes all over the place but does manage to come off as self deprecating with a wink, wink scene in which she makes fun of her famous speech impediment. Warren Williams spends much of the film, wearing a hang dog expression as the unrequited beau of Francis and Brent's noble pal. Combined with an illogical plot and eye rolling dialogue 'Velvet' is another great depression, studio artifact notable for only the curious, era psychology of it's target audience.
Review of Living on Velvet
