Chiffon

FABRIC FACTS

Chiffon garments usually denote high style and fashion and are not worn in

everyday clothing. Chiffon is a plain woven fabric which has a fine sheen effect

created by widely spaced yarns. Chiffon may be woven from any filament fiber,

contrary to a mistaken belief that chiffon is woven from silk only. Chiffon is a

sheer, lightweight fabric which is frequently found in free flowing dress styles.

Chiffon is often sized to add body, luster, drape and hand. Silk chiffon has a softer

hand and feel than acetate, polyester or nylon chiffon. A crepe finish chiffon is

made of tightly twisted yarns giving the fabric a slightly rougher texture compared

to those made of yarns with a loose twist Chiffon is used in high styled dresses,

gowns, blouses and handkerchiefs. Chiffon dresses may be purchased at popular

priced stores as well as at the most expensive designer and retail stores.

Corduroy 

FABRIC FACTS

The casual trend has produced a resurgence of corduroy. Sales of corduroy have

increased and caught the appeal of fashion conscious men and women. Corduroy is

a plush cut pile fabric, typically cotton and sometimes with a little spandex added.

Corduroy has ribs called wales. The width of these ribs range from fine pin-wale to

wide-wale. The fabric name has French roots; "corduroi" means cloth of the king. It

was named in the 1600s when several in the French royal house wore it. Corduroy

is popular as casual wear, particularly pants, skirts and jackets. Corduroy is most

popular in blue but is sold in all colors.

Challis 

FABRIC FACTS

Challis is one of the softest fabrics made. Its name is derived from the Anglo-

Indian word shalee which means soft. It is a lightweight fabric and, quite often,

printed with a delicate floral pattern. It can also be found in solid colors or with

bold prints. Challis may be made from spun rayon, wool, acrylics, blends and

combinations of any yarns. Challis is used for dresses, blouses, kimonos, robes,

shawls, scarves, spreads and comforters.

 Acrylic Knitwear

FABRIC FACTS

Acrylic fiber is thermoplastic, similar to polyester, but with significant differences.

All thermoplastic fibers are sensitive to heat but acrylic is more heat sensitive than

polyester. The characteristic of acrylic to shrivel at relatively low temperatures is

the basis for the manufacturer's process of bulking acrylic. Strands of acrylic yarns,

with varying degrees of heat sensitivity, are subjected to just enough heat to cause

shriveling. The different strands are selected to react differently to the heat. The

result is bulk which resembles soft woolens. Acrylic fibers can be processed into

any yarn thickness from the fine single knit to the heavier double knits. Acrylic

fiber is often blended with wool. Acrylic knitwear will be found in sweaters, dresses,

blouses, skirts and sportswear.

Coated Drapery Fabrics 

FABRIC FACTS

Some draperies and some drapery linings are coated to give them desirable

characteristics while hanging. Claims for coated drapery fabrics are: (1) insulation

against cold, heat,light and (2) protection of the fabric against rain, moisture and

the effect of sunlight. Coating may also stabilize the fabric against shrinkage.

Substances used to coat draperies are: (1) Vinyl plastic, (b) polyurethane plastic,

(c) rubber, and (d) acrylic resins, which are being more widely used.