Fabric Trends From the 2011 Runway

After one of the coldest winters in memory, including record-breaking low temps in the Deep South, it’s time to think spring. What better way to celebrate than with a peek at the 2011 dress fabric trends.

Sheer Skirts and Dresses

The flowing, sheer fabric of chiffon is perfect for its soft, elegant drape and would make a wonderful sheer skirt or dress. All you need to remember is that the garment you wear underneath should be the same shade or darker than the sheer dress or skirt.

Our chiffon fabrics are 100% polyester, which drapes just as well as silk chiffon but is easier to care for. To keep your chiffon flowing and graceful for years, here are some tips on preserving your chiffon fabric.

Prevent snagging: Chiffon has a tendency to snag, so it’s important to be aware of dress accessories that can cause damage. For instance, jewelry that hangs below the neckline or long, dangling earrings can catch on the delicate chiffon threads and create runs which are difficult, if not impossible, to hide or repair. Belts and handbags are other potential threats to chiffon.
Also keep in mind that chiffon can easily be caught on shoes with heels. If you sit down at a table, be mindful of any sharp edges on the chair or the table.

Stain removal: If your chiffon fabric is stained, do not wet the area, and then wipe it down. The delicate threads of chiffon distort when wet and will not return to their original state if stretched.

Staining and spills are usually treatable through a dry cleaner. Don’t attempt to clean the stain yourself. Remember chiffon stretches and shrinks when wet. It is advisable to clean your garment after every use. Do not allow stains and spills to stay untreated for any great length of time or you will have difficulty in removing them.

Washing Chiffon Fabric: The benefit to polyester chiffon vs. silk chiffon is that polyester chiffon fabric can be machine washed on the delicate cycle with cold water.

Polyester chiffon can be dried on the tumble dry setting. Remove the chiffon while it is still damp. You can place it over a white cotton towel to finish drying.

But, just to be on the safe side, consult the manufacturer’s cleaning directions before washing a polyester chiffon garment.

Check out our vibrant chiffon fabrics like amethyst, antique gold and forest green at J&O Fabrics and get started planning your perfect spring frock.

Fabric Trends Coming Next: Lace Clothing and Stripes that Dominate Your Look

Be Sociable, Share!

•