Velvet... A luxurious fabric with an exclusive history, was,once available only to the royal and the wealthy, leaving the masses in awe ofuntouchability, a pièce de résistance.
Velvet is a flattering fabric that absorbs light into itsdeep and rich hues. The smooth texture and sheen of the fabric makes it anundoubted choice of the royal class. A very expensive fabric among the luxurygoods, this fabric has been pampered in many countries throughout thecenturies. Though it is generally believed that velvet owes its origin toancient Kashmir, controversies exist regarding the origin, and existence of thefabric. Archeologists observe proof of ancient Egyptians using a fabric whichhas techniques similar to the production of velvet.
Velvet is made from different kinds of fibres. This fabric is woven on a specialized loom, cut, and then sheared to create a lavish finishing. The fabric is woven on a special loom which weaves two pieces at the same time. They are then cut, and two lengths of fabric are wound on separate rolls. One of the most expensive, and lavish fabric, velvet is made in a variety of types from crushed type to common upholstery. It can also be blended with various other fibres to produce appealing fabrics. The magic hues produced by dyeing the fabric make velvet infamous with nobility. From the mysterious black, to the showstopper red, and purple, alluring shades are produced by dyeing the fabric precisely.
During earlier period, making rich fabrics such as velvetwas rare as fabrics were mostly made of cheap fibres using simple flat woventechnique. So, the richness of the material and weaving techniques of velvetmade it an exclusive fabric. With the passage of time, new methods overtookconventional techniques, and new materials and processes were used in fabricmaking.
Velvet Home Furnishings:
The durability and richness of velvet fabrics make it anideal choice for home furnishings. Sumptuous beddings, draperies, cushions, andupholstery are made from cotton velvet. These fabrics give a ravishing look forupholsteries improving the ambience of the room Rustic home furnishings such asdrapes, table cloth, window curtains, furniture covers, lampshades, wallaccessories, bed spreads, cushion covers, and many more are made from velvetfabrics.
Pageant Of Velvet Apparels:
Velvet is traditionally regarded as a fall fabric. But, inthe current trend, these fabrics are no longer related with winter seasonalone. Various apparels in velvet are dominating the fashion apparel segment.A velvet blazer with a pair of matching jeans will enhance the velvetrepertoire of the wearer. Skirts, pants, shawls, capes, blouses, and manyother outfits are seen in the market. Apart from costume, fashion accessoriessuch as purses, shoes, scarves, hats, and gloves in velvet add glamour to anyoutfit. Leggings in velvet such as stretch stirrups will give a stylishappearance and also keep the legs warm.
Designers have revitalized the fabric with glossy colors,graphic splicing, and pretty burn-out effects. Ralph Lauren, Stella McCartney,and Proenza Schouler provide the apt inspirations for lustrous cocktaildresses. Blends of silk and rayon with velvet fibres is used for making flowingdresses emphasizing its soft drape.
Velvet fabrics are admired timelessly. A fabric that wasonce associated with royalty and reserved only for the elite classes is nowavailable for the common masses at affordable prices due to modernmanufacturing methods. With unmistakable luster and beauty, velvet fabrics haveearned a place in the textile segment as one of the finest and beautifulfabrics for both the royal and common classes.
References:
- http://www.fabrics.net/
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