Textile Glossary

Fiber from alpaca fleece. Warmer than sheep wool, hypoallergenic, and naturally water-resistant. A sustainable alternative to cashmere.

Ultra-soft fiber from Angora rabbits. One of the warmest and lightest natural fibers, but with significant ethical concerns.

True bamboo fiber processed mechanically rather than chemically. Rare and expensive, but genuinely sustainable.

Plain weave variation where multiple yarns are woven side by side, creating a checkerboard pattern. Used for shirts and casual suiting.

Ultra-fine lightweight plain weave fabric. Softer and finer than muslin. Used for handkerchiefs, blouses, lingerie, and christening gowns.

A textured fabric with looped or curled yarns creating a nubby surface. Often wool or mohair. Iconic in Chanel-style jackets.

Dense plain weave with a slight crosswise rib. The standard for dress shirts. Smooth, crisp, takes color well.

A richly decorative woven fabric with raised patterns, traditionally made from silk with gold or silver thread. The elaborate jacquard-woven designs make it a staple of formal and ceremonial clothing worldwide.

Cotton fabric that has been mechanically brushed on one or both sides to raise a soft, peach-skin nap. The brushing process creates a warmer, cozier feel than standard cotton.

Textured knit with twisted stitch patterns resembling braided ropes. Traditionally wool for fisherman sweaters. Cables trap air for insulation.

Fiber from the undercoat of Bactrian camels. Naturally warm, lightweight, and luxurious with a distinctive golden color.

A heavy-duty plain-woven fabric traditionally made from cotton or linen. Known for its sturdiness, canvas is widely used in shoes, bags, and casual wear.

Ultra-soft fiber from the undercoat of cashmere goats. One of the most luxurious natural fibers, prized for its warmth-to-weight ratio.

A lightweight plain-weave cotton fabric that resembles denim but is much lighter and softer. Woven with a colored warp and white weft, giving it a characteristic subtle two-tone appearance.

Sturdy twill weave cotton with a slight sheen. Originally for military uniforms, now the standard for chino pants.

Cotton that has been combed to remove short fibers and impurities, leaving only the longest, straightest fibers. The result is smoother, softer, and more uniform than carded cotton.

Ridged cotton fabric with distinctive parallel cord lines (wales). Durable, warm, and a staple of casual and vintage fashion.

Fabric made from thin sheets of cork bark bonded to a backing fabric. Waterproof, lightweight, and highly sustainable.

The most widely used natural fiber, grown from the cotton plant. Soft, breathable, and versatile but requires significant water to produce.

A tightly woven plain-weave cotton with a smooth, crisp finish. The classic fabric for dress shirts, giving a polished appearance with fine horizontal ribs.

Lightweight silk with subtle pebbled texture and beautiful drape. More matte than charmeuse. Flows beautifully for blouses and dresses.

A reversible figured fabric with a pattern woven into it, created by contrasting warp-face and weft-face satin weaves. Named after Damascus, traditionally made from silk, linen, or cotton with elaborate floral or geometric patterns.

Woven cotton twill fabric, typically dyed with indigo. Heavier and more durable than plain cotton, with a distinctive diagonal weave pattern.

A textured woven fabric produced on a dobby loom, featuring small geometric patterns woven directly into the cloth. Typically cotton-based, used for dress shirts, blouses, and home textiles.

Soft underfeathers from ducks or geese. The gold standard for insulation, offering the best warmth-to-weight ratio of any fill material.

Strong twill weave cotton similar to denim but lighter. The workhorse of uniforms and institutional clothing.

Heavy-duty plain weave cotton, tighter and heavier than standard canvas. The go-to for workwear (Carhartt, Dickies), bags, and outdoor gear.

Crisp silk with luminous sheen and distinctive slubby texture, created when two silkworms spin cocoons together. Popular for formal wear.

Premium extra-long staple cotton from the Nile River Valley. Prized for its strength, softness, and ability to produce very fine yarns.

A cotton or cotton-blend fabric featuring decorative patterns of small cut-out holes finished with embroidered or stitched edges. A hallmark of summer fashion with a feminine, vintage aesthetic.

Non-woven fabric made by compressing and matting wool fibers (or wool/synthetic blends) using heat, moisture, and pressure. Dense, insulating, and easy to cut without fraying — used for hats, crafts, and industrial applications.

Soft woven fabric, typically of cotton or wool, that is napped on one or both sides. Known for its warmth and cozy feel.

Flame-resistant cotton treated to self-extinguish. Required PPE in oil/gas, electrical, and welding industries.

Premium linen woven from European flax, primarily grown in northern France and Belgium. Known for its exceptional softness, refined drape, and superior quality compared to standard linen.

Knit fabric with loops on the inside and a smooth face on the outside. Lighter than standard fleece, it is the go-to fabric for sweatshirts, hoodies, and joggers.

The highest quality leather using the entire grain surface without sanding or buffing. Extremely durable, develops a rich patina, and is the gold standard for leather goods.

A tightly woven twill fabric with a steep diagonal rib. Originally made from wool by Thomas Burberry. The tight weave provides natural water resistance.

Egyptian extra-long-staple cotton grown in the Nile Delta. Staple length 1.5–2.5", among the longest of any commercial cotton. Exceptional softness, luster, and strength — used in luxury dress shirts and bedding. Distinct from "Egyptian cotton" the marketing term, which is often upland cotton merely grown in Egypt; Giza is the actual specialty fiber and must be named explicitly.

Made from cannabis plant fibers. One of the most sustainable natural fibers, requiring minimal water and no pesticides.

A twill weave with a distinctive V-shaped zigzag pattern resembling fish bones. Can be made from wool, cotton, linen, or silk. A classic pattern used in suiting, coats, and tailored garments.

A duotone textile pattern of broken checks or abstract four-pointed shapes, traditionally woven in wool. An iconic menswear pattern associated with tailored jackets, coats, and classic British style.

Double-knit jersey fabric where two rib knit layers are interlocked together, creating a thicker, smoother, and more stable fabric than single jersey. Both sides look identical, making it fully reversible.

Traditional linen woven in Ireland from European flax, prized for its crisp hand feel, exceptional strength, and refined finish. A heritage fabric used in fine suiting, tablecloths, and handkerchiefs.

A broad category of fabrics woven on a jacquard loom, producing intricate patterns directly in the weave rather than printed on. Can be made from any fiber. Known for detailed motifs, florals, and geometric designs.

Knit cotton fabric with natural stretch. Soft, flexible, and comfortable — the standard for t-shirts and casual knitwear.

A long, soft, shiny bast fiber. One of the cheapest natural fibers, primarily used for rough textiles and accessories.

Silky fiber from the kapok tree seed pod. Extremely lightweight and buoyant, used as a natural filling material.

A delicate openwork fabric made by looping, twisting, or knitting threads into intricate patterns. Historically handmade from linen or silk, now also machine-produced from cotton, nylon, and polyester. A timeless symbol of elegance.

Fine lightweight cotton with a crisp finish from calendering. Popular for summer dresses, blouses, and quilting.

Material made from tanned animal hide, most commonly cowhide. Durable, ages beautifully, and provides excellent wind and abrasion protection.

Made from flax plant fibers. One of the oldest textiles, known for exceptional breathability and a distinctive relaxed drape.

Cotton treated with sodium hydroxide under tension to improve luster, strength, and dye affinity. The process permanently alters the fiber structure for a silky sheen.

Merino wool blended with synthetic fibers (typically nylon or polyester) for added durability and faster drying. Common in premium activewear and everyday basics.

Ultra-fine wool from Merino sheep. Softer and less itchy than regular wool, with excellent temperature regulation and moisture management.

Fiber from Angora goats. Known for its brilliant sheen, resilience, and ability to accept dye exceptionally well.

The highest quality silk, produced by Bombyx mori silkworms fed exclusively on mulberry leaves. Finer and more uniform than wild silk.

Lightweight, loosely woven cotton. One of the oldest textiles, from Dhaka. Used for pattern-making, baby products, and lightweight garments.

Top-grain leather that has been sanded or buffed on the outer surface to create a soft, velvety nap. More durable than suede but requires careful maintenance.

Cotton or linen fabric treated with oil (traditionally linseed oil, now often synthetic wax) to make it waterproof. Originally developed for maritime use, it provides superior water protection compared to waxed cotton.

Cotton grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. Same fiber properties as conventional cotton but with significantly lower environmental impact.

Denim made from certified organic cotton grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or GMO seeds. Uses natural indigo or low-impact dyes and less water-intensive finishing.

Linen grown from organic flax without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. Same fiber properties as conventional linen with a lower environmental footprint.

A heavyweight ribbed woven fabric with prominent horizontal ridges created by thick weft yarns. Made from silk, cotton, or synthetic blends. Named after the Ottoman Empire where it originated, used for structured jackets and formal wear.

Basket weave cotton with a heavier, textured feel. The signature OCBD shirt fabric. Casual enough for weekends, refined enough for business casual.

Leather finished with a high-gloss lacquer or synthetic coating. Known for its mirror-like shine, traditionally used in formal footwear and accessories.

Closely woven plain weave cotton with a crisp, cool, matte finish. The classic hotel sheet fabric — breathable and gets softer with every wash.

Extra-long staple cotton known for exceptional softness, durability, and luster. Grown primarily in Peru and the American Southwest.

Knit jersey fabric made from extra-long-staple Pima cotton, prized for its silky softness and durability. The longer fibers create a smoother, stronger yarn that resists pilling and holds color better than regular cotton jersey.

A textured cotton knit or woven fabric with a raised geometric pattern, most commonly a waffle or honeycomb structure. The classic fabric for polo shirts, known for its breathability and structured appearance.

Delicate knit with small decorative holes creating lacy patterns. Popular for baby clothes, lingerie, and feminine tops.

Fiber from the leaves of the raffia palm, traditionally woven into hats, bags, and baskets. Naturally water-resistant, lightweight, and flexible — stronger and more pliable than most straw materials.

A vegetable fiber similar to linen but stronger. Known for its ability to hold shape, reduce wrinkling, and resist bacteria.

Unwashed, unsanforized denim that has not been pre-shrunk or treated after dyeing. Develops unique fade patterns (whiskers, honeycombs) molded to the wearer's body over months of wear.

Reclaimed cashmere fibers from post-consumer sweaters and mill scraps, mechanically processed and re-spun. Offers luxury softness with dramatically lower environmental impact.

Cotton fiber reclaimed from garment scraps or post-consumer textiles. Reduces waste and water usage compared to virgin cotton.

Reclaimed wool fibers sourced from post-consumer garments or mill waste, mechanically shredded and re-spun into new yarn. Preserves most of wool's properties with a fraction of the environmental cost.

Cotton yarn produced by continuously twisting and thinning the fibers, creating a softer, stronger, and smoother yarn than open-end spun cotton. The standard for premium t-shirts.

Cotton woven in satin weave pattern for a silky smooth surface. Premium choice for bed sheets and luxury casual wear.

Extra-long-staple cotton historically grown in the West Indies (Barbados, Jamaica) and Sea Islands of Georgia/South Carolina. Among the rarest commercial fibers on earth — staple length up to 2.5", silky hand feel, intense color saturation when dyed. Used in heritage luxury shirting and bespoke menswear.

Puckered cotton fabric created by weaving at different tensions, producing alternating smooth and crinkled stripes. The puckering lifts fabric off the skin for airflow, making it a classic warm-weather fabric that never needs ironing.

Premium denim woven on shuttle looms that creates a clean self-finished edge (selvedge). Narrower fabric width and slower production yields denser, more durable cloth than modern projectile-loom denim.

A silk fabric with a slightly rough textured surface from irregular slub yarns. Prized for formal wear and bridal gowns.

Protein fiber produced by silkworms. Known for its lustrous appearance, smooth texture, and natural temperature regulation.

A specific silk weave with a satin-like glossy front and matte back. Lighter and more fluid than silk satin, prized for lingerie, blouses, and linings.

Cotton woven with intentionally uneven yarns that create a textured, slightly irregular surface. The imperfections give each garment a unique character and vintage aesthetic.

Dried natural plant stalks (wheat, rice, or other grasses) woven or braided into fabric for hats, bags, and decorative items. Lightweight, rigid, and breathable — a timeless material for warm-weather accessories.

Leather with a napped finish, made from the underside of animal skin. Softer and more flexible than full-grain leather.

Trademarked American-grown pima cotton known for its extra-long staple fibers. Produces exceptionally soft, durable, and color-fast fabrics used in premium apparel.

Wool fabric woven in a distinctive plaid pattern of intersecting horizontal and vertical bands. Rooted in Scottish Highland tradition, each tartan pattern historically represents a clan or region.

Cotton fabric woven with loops on one or both sides, creating a soft, highly absorbent pile. The standard fabric for towels, bathrobes, and poolside coverups. Some terry is knit rather than woven.

Second-highest quality leather with the outermost layer sanded to remove imperfections, creating a uniform appearance. More pliable and stain-resistant than full-grain.

Wild silk from tussah silkworms. Natural golden color, coarser than mulberry silk. Considered more ethical as worms are not killed.

Rough-textured woven wool fabric, originally from Scotland. Known for its durability, warmth, and traditional heritage aesthetic.

A fundamental weave with diagonal ribs. The basis for denim, chino, gabardine. Stronger than plain weave.

A tightly woven long-staple cotton fabric originally developed for RAF pilots in WWII. Naturally waterproof when wet — fibers swell to close gaps. Premium heritage fabric for outerwear.

The rarest and most expensive animal fiber in the world, from the vicuña of the Andes. Finer than cashmere, incredibly soft, warm, and lightweight. A single coat yields only 250g of usable fiber every 2-3 years.

A soft, sheer, lightweight fabric made from cotton or cotton-blend yarns with a high thread count and slight crispness. Used for curtains, summer blouses, and lightweight layering. More opaque and less slippery than chiffon.

Textured knit fabric with a grid of small raised squares resembling a waffle. The honeycomb structure traps air for warmth while remaining breathable. Classic thermal underwear and henley fabric.

Cotton fabric treated with a paraffin or natural wax coating for water resistance. Originally used by sailors, popularized by Barbour for outerwear. Develops a unique patina with age and use.

Natural fiber from sheep. Excellent insulator that regulates temperature and wicks moisture. The standard for cold-weather clothing.

Fiber from the downy undercoat of yaks. Warmer than merino, softer than cashmere of the same grade, and more sustainable.

Made from cellulose acetate derived from wood pulp. Has a silk-like appearance and is commonly used for linings and formal wear.

Leather alternative made from apple pomace (waste from juice production). Upcycles agricultural waste into a flexible, leather-like material.

Bamboo processed using the lyocell closed-loop method rather than the harsh viscose process. More sustainable than bamboo viscose with similar softness.

Rayon manufactured from bamboo pulp using the viscose process. Despite marketing as 'bamboo fabric', the chemical processing removes most of bamboo's natural properties. The most common form of bamboo textile on the market.

Bamboo processed into viscose through chemical means. Soft and silky but the chemical process reduces the sustainability benefits of bamboo.

Premium cupro lining made exclusively by Asahi Kasei under the Bemberg brand. Made from cotton linter (waste fibers too short for spinning), it offers a silk-like feel with superior breathability over polyester linings.

Bioengineered fiber by Spiber using microbial fermentation to produce spider-silk-like proteins. Petroleum-free and biodegradable.

Plant-based leather alternative made from Nopal (prickly pear) cactus fibers, pioneered by the brand Desserto. Requires minimal water and no irrigation to grow.

A semi-synthetic cellulose fiber derived from wax-treated plant stems. Known for its subtle sheen and moderate warmth retention.

Renewcell's recycled cellulose pulp made from worn-out cotton garments and production scraps. Dissolves old cotton textiles into a virgin-quality pulp that can be spun into viscose or lyocell, closing the textile recycling loop.

A fabric with a distinctively crinkled, pebbled surface texture achieved through high-twist yarns or chemical treatment. Available in silk, wool, polyester, and blends. Known for elegant drape and matte finish.

Made from cotton linter (waste from cotton production) using a cuprammonium process. Has a silk-like feel at a lower price point.

Lenzing branded eco-viscose using sustainably sourced wood and a lower-impact production process than standard viscose/rayon.

A lightweight, sheer crepe fabric with a slightly crinkled surface and matte finish. Made from highly twisted yarns in silk or polyester. Prized for its flowing drape in blouses, scarves, and layered garments.

Bio-based leather alternative made from grape marc — the skins, stalks, and seeds left over from winemaking. Pioneered by Vegea.

Infinited Fiber Company's regenerated cellulose fiber made from textile waste (cotton-rich clothing, cardboard). A novel carbamate process transforms waste into a cotton-like fiber, enabling true circular fashion at scale.

Washable paper that develops a leather-like appearance with use. Made from cellulose fiber, it can be washed, folded, and sewn like fabric.

Made from wood pulp using a closed-loop solvent process. The most sustainable semi-synthetic fiber, with excellent drape and comfort.

An ultra-fine variant of modal made from beech tree pulp, with fibers significantly thinner than silk. Exceptionally soft and lightweight, it is the premium choice for high-end underwear and loungewear.

Regenerated protein fiber made from casein (milk protein), typically from waste milk unfit for consumption. Has a silky feel but moderate durability.

Made from beech tree pulp using a modified viscose process. Softer than cotton, better drape than rayon, and more durable when wet.

Modal blended with cotton or spandex, commonly found in underwear, lounge wear, and fitted basics. Combines modal softness with added structure or stretch.

Leather alternative made from mycelium (mushroom root structure). Brands include Mylo and Reishi. Grown in days rather than years, with minimal environmental impact.

Innovative fabric made from citrus juice byproducts. A silk-like sustainable textile made from orange peel cellulose.

A thin, sheer, stiff fabric originally made from silk but now commonly produced from polyester or nylon. Known for its crisp texture and translucent appearance, widely used in bridal and evening wear.

Innovative material made from pineapple leaf fiber. A sustainable, cruelty-free alternative to leather.

Made from regenerated cellulose (wood pulp). Soft and drapey like silk but much cheaper. The original semi-synthetic fabric.

A Tencel variant by Lenzing that blends wood pulp with recycled cotton scraps using closed-loop lyocell processing. Diverts cotton waste from landfills while producing a fiber with the same silky drape and softness as standard Tencel.

Regenerated cellulose fiber infused with seaweed (brown algae). Produced similarly to lyocell but with seaweed integrated into the fiber matrix, adding trace minerals and natural antimicrobial properties.

Lenzing branded lyocell made from sustainably harvested eucalyptus wood pulp using a closed-loop process. Softer and more consistent than generic lyocell.

Modified form of acetate with higher heat resistance and better wrinkle recovery. Easier to care for than standard acetate.

Innovative fiber combining coconut husk fibers with recycled PET plastic. Natural moisture-wicking from coconut component.

Synthetic fiber designed as a cheap alternative to wool. Lightweight and warm but prone to pilling and static.

A class of heat-resistant and ultra-strong synthetic fibers (generic name for Kevlar-type materials). Used in military, industrial, and protective applications where cut, heat, and flame resistance are critical.

Extra-heavy-duty nylon fabric (1050-1680 denier) originally developed for WWII flak jackets. Features a distinctive basket weave pattern and is now the standard for premium luggage, bags, and tactical gear.

A ribbed woven fabric with crosswise cords, typically made from a blend of nylon, polyester, and spandex. Known for its structured stretch and clean drape, popular in trousers and structured garments.

Partially bio-based nylon (polyamide) derived from castor oil or other renewable feedstocks instead of 100% petroleum. Offers the same durability and elasticity as conventional nylon with a lower carbon footprint.

A fabric made with chenille yarn — short lengths of fiber attached to a core thread like a fuzzy caterpillar (chenille is French for caterpillar). Extremely soft and plush with a velvety texture.

Lightweight, sheer fabric with a slightly rough texture. Usually made from polyester, sometimes silk. Prized for its elegant drape.

Adidas moisture-wicking fabric technology using lightweight polyester construction. Designed to draw sweat away from the body and allow it to evaporate for dry comfort during physical activity.

A continuous filament synthetic insulation — unlike short-staple fills, the fibers run the full length of the garment. Resistant to cold spots and shifting, popular in quilts and sleeping bags.

Tight-knit synthetic blend, typically nylon and spandex/elastane, engineered to apply graduated pressure to muscles. Used in athletic compression garments to improve blood flow and reduce muscle fatigue.

Engineered polyester fabric with a modified cross-section fiber that enhances moisture transport. Designed specifically for athletic performance.

High-performance nylon fabric known for exceptional abrasion resistance and durability. Used in military, workwear, and luggage.

Arc'teryx's proprietary synthetic insulation using crimped multi-denier siliconized polyester fibers. Designed for high loft, excellent warmth, and compressibility in technical outerwear.

Medium-weight knit made with two needle sets, creating a stable double-layered fabric. Same on both sides. Popular for dresses and structured knitwear.

Generic synthetic insulation designed to mimic the loft and warmth of natural down. Made from polyester microfibers, it's hypoallergenic, machine washable, and performs when wet — at a lower price than real down.

Nike's proprietary moisture-wicking polyester microfiber fabric. Engineered to pull sweat from the skin to the fabric surface where it evaporates quickly, keeping athletes dry and comfortable.

A heavy, stiff, lustrous satin with a matte back, traditionally silk but now often polyester. Heavier and less drapey than regular satin, with a sculptural quality ideal for formal and bridal gowns.

Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber — the world's strongest fiber by weight. 15x stronger than steel, used in cut-resistant gear, ultralight backpacks, and high-performance sails.

Regenerated nylon made from ocean waste, fishing nets, and fabric scraps by Aquafil. Same quality as virgin nylon with a circular production model.

Ethylene-vinyl acetate — a lightweight, flexible, closed-cell foam widely used in shoe midsoles and insoles. Provides cushioning and shock absorption at low cost.

Synthetic pile fabric made from acrylic, modacrylic, or polyester fibers designed to mimic the look and feel of animal fur. Offers warmth and luxury without using animal products, though environmental impact varies.

Soft synthetic fabric, typically made from polyester. Lightweight, warm, and quick-drying. A staple for casual outerwear.

Membrane technology that is waterproof yet breathable. A laminate applied to other fabrics rather than a fabric itself.

Waterproof breathable membrane fabric (Gore-Tex, eVent, or similar technology) laminated to a face fabric. The gold standard for rain and storm protection in technical outerwear.

Para-aramid synthetic fiber with extraordinary strength-to-weight ratio. Used in protective clothing, aerospace, and military applications.

Invista's branded elastane/spandex fiber. While chemically the same as generic spandex, Lycra-branded fiber undergoes additional quality testing for consistent stretch and recovery. Found in everything from jeans to swimwear.

An open-weave or knitted synthetic fabric with a grid-like structure for maximum airflow. Primarily polyester or nylon, widely used in athletic footwear and sportswear.

Ultra-fine synthetic fibers, typically polyester or nylon. Very soft with good moisture-wicking but sheds microplastics.

A heavy, structured satin with a matte luster, combining the sheen of satin with the body of a suiting fabric. Made from silk or polyester, it is the premier choice for modern minimalist bridal gowns.

Synthetic rubber material. Waterproof, insulating, and flexible. Primarily used in wetsuits and protective gear.

Thick closed-cell foam rubber laminated with nylon or polyester jersey, used primarily in wetsuits. Traps a thin layer of water against the skin that body heat warms, providing thermal insulation in cold water.

Recycled polyester fiber made from post-consumer PET bottles through a mechanical recycling process by Sinterama. Certified by GRS (Global Recycled Standard), it offers the same performance as virgin polyester with significantly less environmental impact.

DuPont's meta-aramid fiber engineered specifically for flame and heat resistance. The standard material for firefighter turnout gear, racing suits, and military flight suits. Does not melt, drip, or support combustion.

Strong synthetic polymer fiber. Lightweight, elastic, and abrasion-resistant. Widely used in activewear, hosiery, and outerwear.

Polypropylene-based synthetic fiber. Lightweight, stain-resistant, and hydrophobic. Used mainly in outdoor and industrial applications.

Phase-change material originally developed for NASA. Absorbs, stores, and releases heat to regulate body temperature. Used as a coating or fiber additive.

Polybutylene terephthalate fiber used in performance swimwear. Superior chlorine resistance compared to standard polyester, with excellent elastic memory that keeps swimsuits fitting like new for longer.

An ultralight nylon or polyester shell fabric engineered for minimal weight and packability while providing wind resistance. Used as the outer shell in down jackets and sleeping bags.

A premium brand of polyester fleece developed by Polartec (formerly Malden Mills). Engineered for high warmth-to-weight ratio, breathability, and moisture management in technical outdoor apparel.

The most widely used synthetic fiber. Made from petroleum-based polymers. Durable, wrinkle-resistant, and quick-drying but not breathable.

Thick, insulating polyester knit with a brushed pile surface. Distinct from generic fleece by its heavier weight and use in outerwear. Popular brands include Polartec.

Lightweight, smooth polyester taffeta or charmeuse used as garment lining. Allows outerwear, suits, and jackets to slide on easily over base layers.

Lightweight thermoplastic fiber. Hydrophobic and quick-drying, used mainly in athletic base layers and thermal underwear.

A performance synthetic with built-in four-way stretch. Commonly used in mid-range activewear for its moisture management properties.

Ponte di Roma — a thick, structured double-knit fabric typically made from polyester, rayon, and spandex. Combines the stretch of knit fabric with the structure of woven, making it popular for work pants, blazers, and dresses.

Premium synthetic insulation originally developed for the US Army. Ultra-fine polyester fibers that mimic down performance while maintaining warmth when wet.

Polyvinyl chloride plastic used as a coating or standalone material in clothing. Waterproof but with significant environmental and health concerns.

Nylon regenerated from waste materials like fishing nets and fabric scraps. Same performance as virgin nylon with reduced environmental impact.

Polyester made from recycled PET bottles or post-consumer polyester. Same performance as virgin polyester with reduced environmental impact.

Stretchy knit with alternating raised and lowered rows. Used for cuffs, collars, waistbands, and fitted garments.

Nylon reinforced with a grid of thicker threads at regular intervals to prevent tears from spreading. Standard for outdoor gear, parachutes, and tactical clothing.

Lightweight polyester with reinforcement threads in a crosshatch grid to prevent tears from spreading. Used in outdoor gear and jackets.

Natural or synthetic rubber used for shoe outsoles. Provides excellent grip, flexibility, and abrasion resistance. The foundation of most footwear.

Smooth, glossy weave structure typically made from polyester or silk. Characterized by its lustrous surface and fluid drape.

Thick double-knit fabric with a neoprene-like feel, made from polyester and spandex with a layer of air between the two knit faces. Creates structured, sculptural garments with a modern aesthetic.

Tubular-knit fabric produced on circular knitting machines without side seams, commonly used for underwear, bras, and activewear. Eliminates chafing from seam lines and provides a smooth, body-hugging fit.

Deep-pile polyester fleece with a bumpy, nubby texture designed to imitate sheepskin. Commonly used as lining in jackets, hoodies, and blankets for a cozy, warm feel without the weight of real shearling.

Stretch woven polyester face bonded to a fleece backing, creating a single fabric that combines wind resistance, water repellency, breathability, and insulation. The go-to jacket fabric for active outdoor use.

DuPont bio-based fiber made partially from plant-derived (corn-based) ingredients. Offers stretch, softness, and stain resistance for activewear.

Synthetic fiber known for exceptional elasticity, stretching up to 500% without breaking. Almost always blended with other fibers.

Cotton/spandex blend commonly marketed as "stretch cotton" on clothing tags. Typically 95-97% cotton with 3-5% spandex for added flexibility and shape retention.

Polyester that is cut into short staple lengths and spun like cotton yarn, giving it a softer, more natural hand feel than filament polyester. Common in t-shirts, uniforms, and blended fabrics.

Denim woven with a small percentage of elastane or spandex (typically 1–5%) for added flexibility and comfort. The most common denim type in modern retail.

A nylon fabric engineered to feel like cotton while retaining nylon performance. Soft, breathable for a synthetic, and quick-drying.

Chlorine-resistant polyester/PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) blend engineered for competitive and recreational swimwear. Resists degradation from pool chemicals, retains shape through hundreds of wears, and dries quickly.

Invista-branded lightweight nylon fiber known for exceptional softness and quick-drying properties. Up to three times softer than cotton, it is widely used in activewear, swimwear, and lingerie.

A crisp, smooth, tightly woven fabric with a subtle sheen and distinctive rustling sound. Originally silk, now mostly polyester or acetate. Popular for formal gowns, linings, and structured garments.

Waffle-textured knit with small pockets that trap warm air. The classic long underwear and henley fabric.

Invista engineered hollow-core polyester fiber designed for lightweight insulation. Used as fill or in fabric blends for cold-weather activewear.

3M's proprietary microfiber insulation made from fine polyester and polypropylene fibers. Traps more warm air in less space than traditional insulation, widely used in gloves, boots, and winter jackets.

Thermoplastic polyurethane — a flexible, durable elastomer used in shoe components, phone cases, and protective gear. Bridges the gap between rubber and plastic.

A very fine, lightweight mesh netting made from nylon, polyester, or silk. The signature fabric of ballet tutus, bridal veils, and layered skirts with a soft romantic drape.

DuPont's spunbond olefin (high-density polyethylene) — a lightweight, paper-like nonwoven material that is waterproof, tear-resistant, and breathable to water vapor. Used in construction housewrap but increasingly in fashion and accessories.

Dense pile fabric with a soft, luxurious surface. Modern velvet is typically polyester; historically made from silk. Known for its rich texture and sheen.

Premium Italian-made rubber outsole compound known for exceptional grip, durability, and performance. The gold standard for hiking boots, mountaineering, and technical footwear.