Taffeta vs Satin
Satin is a well-known luxurious fabric that is often used for special occasion dresses for women and girls, as well as for men’s shirts and trousers. It is very soft, almost like silk, and has an unparalleled sheen. Taffeta is another fabric that is similar in appearance and feel, which can cause confusion for those who are not familiar with fabrics. This article will discuss the differences between taffeta and satin, particularly for those looking for a suitable fabric for their wedding gowns.
Taffeta
When customers browse wedding dresses in a store, they may become confused when what they believe to be satin turns out to be a different fabric called taffeta. Taffeta is an ancient woven fabric that was originally made from silk, but today it can also be made from synthetic fibers. The name of the fabric comes from the Persian language and literally means “something that is twisted and woven.” Taffeta is considered a luxurious, high-quality fabric that is in demand just like silk. The fabric can be plain or woven, resulting in different textures. Soft, piece-dyed taffeta is often used for linings in dresses, while harder, yarn-dyed taffeta is used for evening dresses. Taffeta is not only used for apparel; it can also be found in ribbons, umbrellas, and even as insulation in electrical circuits.
Satin
Satin is a fabric that closely resembles silk and was initially made with silk in China. The fabric is very glossy on one side and less so on the other, which is taken into account when making apparel from the fabric. Due to its softness and luxurious feel, satin has long been a preferred fabric for royalty. The shine of satin fabric results from its unique weaving process. Satin weave is one of the three main weaving processes used to create fabrics. Double-faced satin fabrics, which are shinier and more expensive, are also available.
Key Takeaways
• Though they may appear similar, there is a difference in the feel of satin and taffeta – satin is smoother, while taffeta has a more noticeable texture.
• Taffeta holds its shape better than satin, while satin is easier to drape around the body.
• The weaving processes of satin and taffeta are different, and taffeta is often used for drapery due to its crispness, while the softer satin is used for women’s formal dresses.
