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Corduroy

What is Corduroy?

Corduroy is a woven pile fabric with vertical ribs created by cutting extra yarns on the fabric surface. These ribs are called wales, and the number and width of the wales influence the look and feel of the fabric. Fine-wale corduroy has narrow ribs and a more refined appearance, while wide-wale corduroy has a stronger texture and a more casual, retro look.

Traditionally made from cotton, corduroy is now also available in cotton blends, polyester blends and stretch versions with elastane. Stretch corduroy is especially popular for trousers, fitted skirts and children’s clothing because it combines the classic corduroy look with extra comfort and freedom of movement.

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Specifications

  • Construction Woven pile fabric with vertical ribs, also called wales
  • Composition Usually cotton, cotton/polyester blend or cotton with elastane
  • Fabric weight Within the Nooteboom Textiles range, we see Corduroy qualities from approximately 145 to 310 g/m²
  • Stretch Little to no stretch in classic corduroy; moderate stretch when elastane is added
  • Abbreviations CO = cotton, PES = polyester, EL = elastane
  • Appearance Ribbed, soft pile surface, matte, warm and textured

What are the properties of Corduroy?

Corduroy is a pile weave in which the raised surface is arranged in distinctive lengthwise ribs. The pile yarns are held securely within the woven base, giving the fabric its combination of texture and structure. Finer ribs create a more subtle surface, while broader ribs produce a stronger and more pronounced texture. Cotton qualities generally feel natural and soft, while blended constructions can alter durability, flexibility and recovery.

How does Corduroy feel?

Corduroy usually feels soft and slightly velvety across the raised ribs, while the woven base gives the fabric more body than a knitted velour. The pile creates a warm, tactile surface and can make colours appear slightly different depending on the direction of the light.

Fine-wale qualities generally feel smoother and more refined. Wide-wale corduroy has a more pronounced texture and usually creates a stronger visual structure.

Applications

  • Trousers and dungarees
  • Jackets and overshirts
  • Skirts and pinafores
  • Children’s clothing
  • Autumn and winter dresses
  • Workwear-inspired garments
  • Caps, bags and accessories
  • Cushions and decorative interior items

Care Instructions

Washable at 30–40°C, depending on the composition and finish. Wash inside out to protect the pile and reduce visible wear. Do not bleach. Avoid high-temperature tumble drying, as this can flatten the pile or cause shrinkage. Iron on the inside at low to medium temperature, or steam lightly to refresh the ribbed surface.

Certifications

OEKO-TEX Standard 100 may be available depending on the specific article. For children’s clothing or baby-related applications, always check the certification and class per fabric.

Practical Tip

Pay attention to the pile direction when cutting corduroy. All pattern pieces should be placed in the same direction to avoid visible colour differences and texture changes in the finished garment. For trousers and fitted garments, stretch corduroy with elastane provides extra comfort and better shape recovery.

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Written by

Dave Van der Steen Nooteboom Textiles

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