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Taffeta

What is taffeta fabric?

Taffeta is a crisp woven fabric with a smooth surface and a subtle sheen. The fabric is known for its firm hand feel, light rustling sound and structured appearance. Because it holds shape well, taffeta is often used for garments and decorative textiles that need volume or a clean silhouette.

Taffeta can be made from polyester, acetate, silk or blends. In modern fabric collections, polyester taffeta is common because it is stable, lightweight and easier to care for than silk taffeta.

View Taffeta collection

Specifications

  • Construction Woven fabric, usually plain weave with a crisp and smooth surface
  • Composition Commonly polyester, acetate, silk or blends
  • Fabric weight Commonly around 85 to 120g/m², depending on fibre, yarn density and finish
  • Stretchability Usually little to no stretch, unless elastane is added
  • Abbreviations PES = polyester, AC = acetate, SE = silk, EL = elastane

Properties of the fabric

Taffeta is usually woven in a plain weave with fine, tightly set yarns. This gives the fabric its smooth surface, crisp touch and characteristic structure. Some taffeta qualities have a plain colour, while others use different coloured warp and weft yarns to create an iridescent or changeable effect.

The fabric usually has little to no stretch and does not drape as softly as satin, viscose or georgette. Instead, it creates volume, folds and shape, which makes it suitable for fuller skirts, occasionwear and decorative items. Because the surface is smooth and compact, needle marks and pressing shine can become visible.

Applications

  • Evening dresses.
  • Full skirts.
  • Occasion wear tops.
  • Bridal underskirts and overskirts.
  • Decorative bows and sashes.
  • Curtains and decorative interior textiles.

Care instructions

  • Wash taffeta only when the care label allows it, usually at low temperature or on a gentle programme.
  • Wash inside out or in a laundry bag to help protect the smooth surface.
  • Air drying is preferred to reduce creasing and surface damage.
  • Iron on the reverse side at low temperature.
  • Use a pressing cloth and avoid hard pressure to prevent shine marks.

Certificates

  • OEKO-TEX Standard 100 may be available depending on the specific article.

Practical tip

Use taffeta when a design needs shape rather than fluid drape. Test seams, pressing and needle size first, because the smooth compact surface can show stitch marks and shine quickly.

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Written by

Dave Van der Steen Nooteboom Textiles

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