Velvet nails use the same iron-particle polish as cat-eye, but the magnet is applied diffusely so the whole nail shimmers like crushed velvet rather than showing one streak. In dim warm light — restaurants, candles, parties — it is the most flattering finish in the current repertoire.
Ask for 'a soft all-over velvet shimmer, no distinct band' — the salon default is often the single cat-eye streak.