Silk Fabric – From Cocoons to Class Apart

It will not be an understatement to say that Silk is the most loved fabric due to its comfortable yet luxurious appeal. Especially women consider silk fabric as an epitome of Beauty and grace. In the words of Hollywood Actress, Audrey Hepburn, “When I wear a silk scarf I never feel so definitely like a woman, a beautiful woman”. This is the magic of silk.

Silk is the strongest natural textile in the world. The softness of the fabric has made it a highly desired luxury throughout history in all the fashion eras.

This lustrous fabric is made from harvesting of silkworm cocoons at high temperatures. The cocoon is unravelled, loaded, twisted and rolled before it is sent for final dyeing and weaving. The silk fibres have triangular-prism like structure which reflects light at various angles, giving it a subtle rainbow hue, owing to its shine.

Due to its strong fibres and beautiful threads, Silk Fabric is used to produce lavish clothing like Sarees, Blouses, Bridal Lehengas, Pajamas, Jackets, lingerie, Shirts, Suits, Ties and many more. Its soft & royal texture also makes it a favourite for home décor purposes like for Beddings, Curtains, Upholstery, Comforters, Wall Hangings, Sleeping Bags, etc.

Due to many uses of the fabric, it comes in various forms. Some of the most popular types of silk fabrics are:

1- Banarasi Silk:

The richness of the silk and the magnificience of brocade motif work defines the royal Banarasi fabric. This exceptionally beautiful and highly elegant fabric is a favourite among the brides throughout history and in many cultures.

2- Tafetta Silk:

Also known as Paper taffeta or shot silk, this crisp fabric is used to make many women apparels and party attires. This fabric is a blend of silk, rayon and polyester fabrics. Silk does for the body what diamonds do for the hand - Oscar de la Renta

3- Tussar Silk:

Tussar Silk or Bhagalpur Silk is an Indian heritage silk woven by craftsmen from Eastern India. Sarees are mainly produced from Tussar silk and it is also used as the base material for handicrafts, furnishing fabrics, and stitched apparels.

4- Brocade Silk:

This decorative fabric is used mostly for Upholstery and draperies. Also used for Sarees, Dress Materials, Dupattas, this rich fabric is a festive-favourite for Women.

5- Uppada Silk:

The intricate design and zari work of the fabric makes it a festive attire. Stunning Sarees, which are best for weddings and formal gatherings, are made using this hand-woven fabric.

6- Organza Silk:

This lightweight fabric is an outstanding drape and traditional Organza is made from silk and is a bit expensive. Organza Silk is used for making Bridalwear, evening gowns, skirts, etc.

7- Raw Silk:

“Resham” or “Raw Silk” or “Paat” is used for clothing such as shirts, suits, ties, blouses lingerie, pajamas, jackets, etc. Raw silk is woven from untreated yarns making it different from Pure silk which is woven after treating the yarns chemically which removes all sticky protein layers.

8- Cotton Silk:

Combining the best of the weaving worlds, this fabric is a lightweight silky and comfortable blend of cotton and silk. The Cotton Silk fabric is ideally used in garment and textile industry for designing scarves, stoles, upholstery, shirts, dresses and other home decorative items.

9- Dupion Silk:

Dupion Silk is slightly heavier than other types of silk making this lustrous fabric an absolute favourite of designers. Being a designer favourite, it is used for making high fashion clothing, wedding attires, upholstery, draperies, etc.

10- Modal Silk:

This incredibly luxurious, light-weight fabric comes in many beautiful patterns and prints like Kalamkari, Chanderi, Floral Prints, Ajrakh Block Prints, etc. It is widely acclaimed for its durability and sleek texture.