Velvet... A luxurious fabric with an exclusive history, was,
once available only to the royal and the wealthy, leaving the masses in awe of
untouchability, a pièce de résistance.
Velvet is a flattering fabric that absorbs light into its
deep and rich hues. The smooth texture and sheen of the fabric makes it an
undoubted choice of the royal class. A very expensive fabric among the luxury
goods, this fabric has been pampered in many countries throughout the
centuries. Though it is generally believed that velvet owes its origin to
ancient Kashmir, controversies exist regarding the origin, and existence of the
fabric. Archeologists observe proof of ancient Egyptians using a fabric which
has 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 velvet
was rare as fabrics were mostly made of cheap fibres using simple flat woven
technique. So, the richness of the material and weaving techniques of velvet
made it an exclusive fabric. With the passage of time, new methods overtook
conventional techniques, and new materials and processes were used in fabric
making.
Velvet Home Furnishings:
The durability and richness of velvet fabrics make it an
ideal choice for home furnishings. Sumptuous beddings, draperies, cushions, and
upholstery are made from cotton velvet. These fabrics give a ravishing look for
upholsteries improving the ambience of the room Rustic home furnishings such as
drapes, table cloth, window curtains, furniture covers, lampshades, wall
accessories, bed spreads, cushion covers, and many more are made from velvet
fabrics.
Pageant Of Velvet Apparels:
Velvet is traditionally regarded as a fall fabric. But, in
the current trend, these fabrics are no longer related with winter season
alone. Various apparels in velvet are dominating the fashion apparel segment.
A velvet blazer with a pair of matching jeans will enhance the velvet
repertoire of the wearer. Skirts, pants, shawls, capes, blouses, and many
other outfits are seen in the market. Apart from costume, fashion accessories
such as purses, shoes, scarves, hats, and gloves in velvet add glamour to any
outfit. Leggings in velvet such as stretch stirrups will give a stylish
appearance 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 cocktail
dresses. Blends of silk and rayon with velvet fibres is used for making flowing
dresses emphasizing its soft drape.
Velvet fabrics are admired timelessly. A fabric that was
once associated with royalty and reserved only for the elite classes is now
available for the common masses at affordable prices due to modern
manufacturing methods. With unmistakable luster and beauty, velvet fabrics have
earned a place in the textile segment as one of the finest and beautiful
fabrics for both the royal and common classes.
References:
- http://www.fabrics.net/
- http://www.velvet-touch.com
- http://www.ehow.com
