Wool
Wool is incredibly durable. It is processed in quite a few
ways. Along with cotton, it is the most used of the natural
fibers today.
A cashmere wrap, a marino sweater, a gabardine suit and a
camel hair coat all come from different animals and processed
differently.
So when you're out shopping there are five Fashion Tips to
keep in mind.
- What is the fabric composition. Look at the label and
make sure it is clearly marked and you understand it.
- Does it look well made. Top stitching should be even.
lining shouldn't have any puckering, no loose threads, Etc...
- Does it drape or hang
well? Do you like the weight of the fabric,does it flow nicely on you
when you move?
- Does it have a nice hand? It should feel good
against your body. It should'nt feel itchy. Cashmere and
Vicuna make are
some of the softest fabrics known to man.
- Will it travel well?
Fabrics
There
are quite a few
different kinds of wool fabrics.The following are just a few but the
ones you'll most often see in the stores.
Boiled
It isn't actually boiled, it is immersed in warm water and
agitated. This is a meaty fabric that hold its shape
really well. Usually you'll find it used for coats and jackets that can
be worn like a sweater.
Challis
is a soft lightweight wool often printed and used for a
variety of garment. Skirts, jackets, dresses and ties.
Crepe
is one of my favorite fabrics. It makes wonderful suits and dresses. It
holds its structure very well and comes in a wide range of colors and
weights. It also drapes beautifully.
Felt
is the earliest fabric known to man. It is not a woven
cloth, it is a cloth produced by matting, through
friction and moisture. The fibers are loosed when friction and moisture
is applied and as it dries and cools the fibers interlock.
Flannel
A soft, loosely spun yarn fabric of various finesses. It is smooth on
both sides. You'll see lots of coats and jackets out of this fabric.
Gabardine
Thomas Burberry invented Gabardine. It is a tightly
woven tough twill fabric. Traditionally made of worsted wool, gabardine
is smooth on one side and has a diagonal pattern on the
other.
Gabardine is an excellent fabric for structured clothing such as
suiting, slacks, jackets and coats.
Jersey
is a single or double-knit lightweight fine cloth.
A flat side and a pile side excellent for draping . Womens
dresses, skirts, evening pants and tops all are used with this
material. Donna Karan, Calvin Klein are
known for their abundant use of this wonderful cloth.
Tweed
is a woven fabric that is nubby and uses several
different colored yarns to weave different kinds of patterns.
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