Everything You Need To Know About Georgette Fabrics

May 3, 2023

History of Georgette Fabric

The early 20th century saw the debut of Georgette fabric, which was given that name in honour of French dressmaker Georgette de la Plante. It gained popularity immediately because of its distinctive texture and drape, which made couturiers like Coco Chanel a fan.

Georgette was initially made exclusively from silk fibers and was considered a luxury fabric. But, The development of synthetic fibres in the middle of the 20th century made it more affordable and accessible to the consumers.

Due to its flowing, ethereal qualities, georgette was particularly well-liked in the 1920s and 1930s, the Art Deco era, when it was used in dresses and blouses. Also it was a popular choice for the bohemian fashion trend in the 1960s.

Today, georgette remains a popular choice for women's clothing and accessories due to its elegant drape and unique texture.

What is Georgette Fabric?

Georgette is a woven kind of fabric where yarns are trusted in z- twist and s- twist. The twists are in alternate direction hence giving crinkled finish on the fabric surface. It is favoured for women's clothes like blouses, dresses, and skirts as well as for accessories like scarves because of its crinkly texture and gorgeous drape.

How Georgette Fabric is Made?

Georgette fabric can be weaved in different finishing apart from regular plain finish it could be produced in jacquard and satin weave too. It has a distinctive texture because it is woven in a plain weave with twisted thread. After applying heat and pressure to the fabric to set the crinkles in place, a fine, sheer fabric is produced that can range in weight from extremely light and sheer to more substantial and opaque.

Types of Georgette Fabric

This man made fabric is so versatile that so many different types are possible by changing wearing and twisting pattern.

1. Polyester Georgette

This is produced by wearing polyester yarn hence it is called polyester Georgette. This is most commonly used fabric because its affordable.

2. Satin Georgette

Yarn remaining same weaving is changed from plane to satin georgette change in weave gives it more lustrous look together the feel remain same, look enhance a lot.

3. Jacquard Georgette

Again hear the weaving pattern change . Georgette here is made on jacquard loom, making fabric more strong.

4. Stretch Georgette

Competition of fabric is changed by adding Spaden into yarn to give it a stretch.

5. Double Georgette

This is thicker in nature as compared to original Georgette fabric. Because of its thicker nature it becomes easier to drape.

6. Embroidered Georgette

The fabric is embellished with sequins, beadwork, or threads.

What is Faux Georgette?

Faux Georgette, often simply referred to as Georgette, is a lightweight, sheer fabric that replicates the look and feel of traditional Georgette but is made from synthetic fibers. Unlike traditional Georgette, which is crafted from silk, Faux Georgette is commonly produced using materials such as polyester or rayon. This synthetic version offers similar drape and texture to silk Georgette but at a more affordable price point.

Also Read : What Types of Fabric Trending in 2023-2024

Features and Properties of Georgette Fabric

Hypoallergenic - The most important feature that we look for these days it that fabric is silk friendly or not. No harmful chemical are used in reducing this fabric hence it is good for skin, overall health and environment too.

Drape tastily - Due to lightweight nature, it is easily to drape this fabric. This feature is the reason behind popularity of this fabric among fashion designers.

High Tensile Strength- Outing two feature the fabric could be embellished with beads, mirror aura embroidered on easily.

Holds Dye - This fabric could be dyed easily in different colors and patterns. It doesn't fade generally.

Light Weight - This is very lightweight fabric which make it easier to add to larger price of garments without making garment heavy.

Breakable - Due to its sheer nature this fabric becomes breakable in nature, making it up perfect choice for hot season.

Sheer Effect - This is translucent and sheer fabric.
Crinkled Look - This twisting for yarns in twist in z twist gives this fabric crinkled and distinguishing look.

Georgette fabric could be used for both Government and home finishing

Dresses, sarees, blouses, tops , overlay jacket, trousers, co-ordeals , kart's, gowns, lehenga's, anorak's, Omani dresses, suit all could be designed using Georgette fabric. For home finishing curtains, cushion cover, sheers, table decorations etc could be designed using these.

Apparel: Sarees, dresses, skirts, blouses, gowns, cocktail dresses, and bridal attire.

Uses for Georgette Fabric

Special Occasion Wear: Perfect for stylish and sophisticated evening wear.
Scarves and Shawls: Lightweight and airy, ideal for chic accessories.
Lingerie and Nightwear: Soft and sensual, suitable for intimate apparel.
Home Decor: Sheer curtains, drapes, and decorative accents for an elegant touch.
Crafting Accessories: Hair accessories, bows, and embellishments for DIY projects.
Stage Costumes: Adds movement and visual appeal to dance costumes and theatrical outfits.
Casual Tops and Blouses: Comfortable and breathable, suitable for everyday or formal wear.

How to Identify Pure Georgette Fabric?

Simple test could be performed to check the authenticity of Georgette-

Water Stain Test - wet a protean of fabric and dry it with iron. If the water stain is visible after drying this fabric is pure.

Burn Test - burn the fabric and fabric continuous to burnt even when flame is put off then smell is similar to burning paper than it is pure.

Touch Test - easy way to check Georgette is by touching the fabric with your hands. If the fabric feels is rough than it is pure Georgette.

Environmental Impact of Georgette Fabric

When it comes to georgette fabric, its environmental impact is a topic worth exploring. While this lightweight, sheer fabric boasts a luxurious drape and fluid movement, its production process raises some concerns.

There are different types of georgette fabrics that are typically made from silk or synthetic fibres like polyester or nylon, which can have varying environmental footprints. Silk production, though natural, involves intensive water usage and potential chemical treatments.

Synthetic fibres, on the other hand, are derived from non-renewable resources and contribute to plastic pollution. However, efforts are being made to develop more sustainable georgette alternatives, such as those made from recycled or plant-based materials, reducing the fabric's environmental toll while preserving its elegance and versatility.

How To Care of Georgette?

The delicate fabric needs to be handled properly and with caution. It had a long life but it not handled properly it could be damaged beyond repair.

It should be either watched by hand for only dry cleaned.

Used cold water only

Only mild detergent need to used for washing.

Do not stretch or wring the fabric.

Do not dry it in direct sunlight.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Is georgette a summer fabric?

Georgette is a lightweight, semi-sheer fabric that is often made from silk or synthetic fibers. While it can be worn in any season, it is especially popular in the summer due to its light and airy texture. Georgette is often used in summer dresses, blouses, and skirts as it is comfortable to wear in hot weather. However, it can also be layered for cooler temperatures or for a more formal look. So, to answer your question, while georgette is not exclusively a summer fabric, it is often favored for summer clothing due to its lightweight and breathable qualities.

2. Does georgette shrink?

Georgette is generally made from synthetic or silk fibers, which have different properties when it comes to shrinkage. Synthetic georgette is less likely to shrink than silk georgette because synthetic fibers are more resistant to heat and moisture. Silk georgette, on the other hand, can shrink when exposed to heat or moisture, especially if it has not been pre-shrunk or if it is not handled properly during washing and drying.

To minimize the risk of shrinkage, it is best to follow the care instructions on the label of your georgette garment.

3. Does georgette need ironing?

Georgette fabric can wrinkle easily, so it may require ironing to remove any wrinkles or creases. When ironing georgette, it's important to use a low heat setting and to iron on the reverse side of the fabric to avoid damaging the delicate fibers. You may also want to use a pressing cloth or a piece of fabric between the georgette and the iron to protect the fabric from direct heat.

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