5 Crucial Things That Make Jacquard The Most Unique Fabric

If you are into ethnic fashion, the chances are that you have already seen jacquard fabric without realising it. This type of material has an intricate woven pattern which is not embroidered but woven directly into the fabric. It is manufactured by a special loom which also produces other materials like brocade and damask. Although jacquard might have become a common sight in the markets today, this was not always the case. It is such a rare and unique material that even the term “jacquard” indicates how the pattern is woven, not the specific design itself.

A history of jacquard — to loom & beyond

A process called the draw-loom was used to weave designs before the 1800s, but it was a prolonged process and could only be used for simple designs. Only the wealthy members of society could afford the delicate, intricate fabrics, and hence they became a symbol of status and wealth. However, this situation changed drastically in 1801 with the coming of the jacquard loom, named after its inventor Joseph Marie Jacquard. He wanted to create a more efficient machine which required less labour and could create artistic designs in fabrics.

The jacquard loom fulfilled all these criteria, as it made use of punched wooden cards to weave a pre-designed pattern into the fabric. In the 1980s, there was a surge in production with the invention of electronic jacquard looms, which eliminated the repetitive need to weave the fabric by hand. A significant improvement hence came in production time and quality, which further led to the fabric’s popularity.

Why is jacquard so unique?

Patterns are prone to fading, stretching or rubbing off altogether when they are stamped or printed on the surface of the fabric. However, a jacquard pattern is here to stay because it is a part of the material’s weave itself, so it won’t change despite daily wear and tear.

The part that makes this material so unique is that some jacquards are even reversible, hence promising more versatility than a printed pattern. From floral and damask to polka dot and plaid, you are sure to find a jacquard pattern that resonates with you. Moreover, as this material is woven into the fabric, each yarn can be solution-dyed, making it more fade-resistant than topically dyed yarns.

Types of jacquard fabric

Apart from the patterned jacquard fabric woven with the help of a loom, this material can be further sub-divided into three types.

Brocade fabric — This material is used explicitly in fashion clothing and upholstery. It is an elaborately patterned raised fabric woven with multi-coloured threads. It helps in producing much more vibrant designs.

Damask fabric — This is a more delicate and sheer version of brocade. It is also a patterned fabric but mostly woven with a single colour. It is generally used in fibre blends or synthetic fibre production.

Matelasse fabric — This material is manufactured using cotton, silk or rayon. It has a quilted effect and a stretchy surface.

Variety & uses of jacquard

From ethnic to western wear, jacquard covers all fashion clothing categories. It was specifically proved at Lakme Fashion Week, where the show was a full-on display of jacquard knee-length dresses and jumpsuits. Not only this, but this fabric looks beautiful in sarees, lehengas, pantsuits, ethnic jackets, blouses and kurtas. Floral and jacquard is one mesmerising combination that consistently gives us major fashion inspiration.

The versatility of this material is undeniable, and hence it’s not only limited to garments but goes beyond to accessories and home decor too. Luxury brands like Gucci, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton and more have justified the use of jacquard for beautiful accessories like bags, shoes, wallets and hairbands. More than 50% of bed covers, pillow or cushion covers, bedsheets and towels are made of this fabric.

Maintenance & care of jacquard fabric

Jacquard is a fabric that doesn’t require extra effort to look clean and cared for. If you wish to dry-clean this material, then you can use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner. For wet cleaning, you can even use a damp sponge. During drying, it’s essential to avoid direct sunlight. You should also avoid using various chemicals on the fabric or rubbing it too hard, because that might damage its texture.

Jacquards which were earlier made of silk are now made from different kinds of fibres. It’s a complex-textured material and worth buying. Did jacquards capture your attention now? You are in luck! We at YourLibaas offer hundreds of ethnic-wear pieces in this fabric, which you can easily order and compare with other designs and colour schemes.

— By Anushka Batra