fabric Crêpe de chine
Crêpe de chine is a fine, lightweight but durable silk or silk blend with a distinctive texture and shimmer. Woven with twisted yarns, the fabric is characterised by slight irregularities on its surface, creating a subtle luminosity that appears to shift in colour as the fabric moves.
fabric Crêpe de chine
Crêpe de chine is a fine, lightweight but durable silk or silk blend with a distinctive texture and shimmer. It is named for China, the historical centre of silk production. The fabric is woven with a ‘crêpe twist’ process – the weft yarns are twisted both clockwise and counter-clockwise for a lightly crinkled texture. This gives the surface slight irregularities, creating a subtle luminosity that appears to shift in colour as the fabric moves.
The weight and slippery surface of crêpe du chine give it a graceful drape, and it has been used for dresses, skirts and lingerie since the 19th century France. It is similar to habotai silk, but more substantial. Though it looks elegant and delicate, crêpe de chine is surprisingly strong and wears well over time.