Fabrics Explained: Ponte Roma, Jacquard, Silk Dupion and More
Fabric is where every dress begins. The right fabric makes a dress drape, flatter and feel wonderful to wear. Here's a plain-English guide to the fabrics I use, and why I choose them.
What is ponte Roma jersey?
Ponte, short for ponte di Roma or ponte Roma, is a luxurious double-knit jersey that originated in Italy. I call it the Rolls Royce of jerseys. Unlike thin, clingy jersey, ponte is knitted in two interlocking layers, which gives it:
- A smooth, polished surface that looks smart rather than casual.
- A good weight, so it skims the body instead of clinging.
- Excellent stretch and recovery: it holds you in and springs back into shape.
- Very little creasing, which makes it brilliant for travel.
It's machine washable too. See it in my Deep Claret and Bright Blue Zip Pocket dresses and the new Straight Zip Pocket in black ponte.
What is jacquard?
Jacquard is a fabric where the pattern is woven into the cloth on a special jacquard loom, rather than printed on top. That gives it texture, depth and structure, and the pattern can never fade or rub off. My Suzannah Artist print dresses are made in jacquard.
What is brocade?
Brocade is a luxurious type of jacquard, often woven with metallic threads for a rich, gentle sheen. It has been used for special-occasion clothing for centuries. See the Signature gold brocade and Confident Swing in gold brocade.
What is silk dupion?
Silk dupion is a crisp, luxurious silk woven with naturally irregular threads. Those little slubs give it a subtle texture and a beautiful shimmering sheen that changes in the light. It holds its shape wonderfully, which makes it perfect for structured occasion dresses. I offer over one hundred silk dupion colours in my Made for You service.
What is Morrocain?
Morrocain (sometimes spelled marocain) is a soft viscose crepe with a gentle crinkled texture and a beautiful fluid drape. It's light, breathable and floaty, ideal for summer, holidays and cruises. My Stevie and Sculpt dresses are made in Morrocain.
What is Tencel?
Tencel is a brand of lyocell, a fibre made from wood pulp from managed forests. It's soft, breathable, moisture-wicking and uses less water than cotton. My super soft denim Zip Pocket is made in Tencel denim.
What is stretch velvet?
Velvet has a soft, dense pile that catches the light and feels luxurious. Stretch velvet adds comfort and movement, and mine is machine washable at 30 degrees. It's perfect for winter weddings and Christmas.
Where are your fabrics from?
Many of my fabrics are Italian, and my prints are printed in Como, Italy, famous for its exceptional textile printing. Read more in my secret formula for beautiful prints.
Feel the fabrics in person
There's nothing like touching a fabric. Book an appointment to visit my London showroom.
Love, Katya x
