Summer is here, and it’s officially time to ditch the heavy knits and thick layers for fabrics that feel light, airy, and effortlessly stylish. And if there’s one fabric that stands out in the summer fashion scene, it’s crepe!
Crepe fabric has become a fashion industry standard due to its adaptability and distinctive texture. This fabric may be readily turned into various styles, ranging from airy dresses to fitted suits. Because it is soft, lightweight, and breathable, crepe fabric is fashionable and functional for everyday use.
Let’s explore this crepe material guide further to learn more about its properties, characteristics, types of crepe fabrics, and more.
What is Crepe Fabric?
Crepe is one material and a group of woven textiles called crinkled texture. Ultimately, this unique texture is generated from a highly twisted yarn and a loose weaving technique. The result? Fabrics that fall nicely, stick to the body without clinging, and are breathable to allow air circulation are considered the best for unbearably hot days.
History of Crepe Fabric
Crepe fabric has an ancient history and was first made in Europe in the early 1800s. Over time, it has undergone various transformations and has become a widely sought-after material in the fashion industry due to its distinctive texture and adaptability.
Known as “crepe de Chine,” crepe was first invented in France as a silk fabric with a texture like crepe. When crepe became a popular fabric for flapper dresses in the 1920s, its fame began to soar. Ever since, the fashion industry has continued to love crepe fabric, creating new sorts and varieties.
Exploring Different Types Of Crepe Fabric
The beauty of crepe lies in its diversity. Here are some popular types you’ll encounter:
Silk Crepe
The luxurious silk crepe is distinguished by its refined sheen and graceful drape. This type is frequently used in elegant clothing, such as bridal dresses and evening gowns. Silk crepe is a popular option for summer clothing because of its breathability and lightweight.
Cotton Crepe
Cotton crepe is ideal for everyday wear because it can be styled in many ways, especially when wearing blouses, tees, dresses, and skirts. It is multi-dimensional and can be matched perfectly with denim shorts to give you a casual look. If you’d like to be more formal with your outfit, you can do it by adding a blazer. Cotton crepe has the advantage of being machine-washable and less demanding in its maintenance than silk crepe. Cotton crepe is an essential and wearable choice for your wardrobe this summer. It offers a vast scope of how you can style and feel relaxed.
Cotton crepe deserves a special mention for its everyday versatility. Cotton crepe is versatile and easy to wear:
- Variety: It comes in many colors and styles.
- Styling Options: From dresses to skirts, the options are endless.
- Texture and Prints: Choose from different textures and playful prints.
- Easy Care: Unlike silk, it’s often machine-washable.
- Integration: Adding it to your wardrobe is effortless.
Georgette Crepe
Georgette Crepe is a dazzling fabric choice to elevate your wardrobe with elegance. Its lightweight and sheer texture offers a shimmering appeal, adding glamour to your attire. It drapes effortlessly with a crisp and smooth feel, enhancing your silhouette with a lustrous sheen. Georgette Crepe is ideal for creating classy and sophisticated outfits for sheer blouses, tops, and skirts that flatter your figure, making you stand out when paired with heels or a fancy clutch.
Wool Crepe
Wool crepe, often known as crepon, combines silk and cotton fibers. It is usually used for lingerie and gowns and has a wiry feel. Although the unusual look of this fabric gives your clothes a sophisticated touch, its heavier weight might be more appropriate for hot summer days.
Polyester Crepe
Fashion-forward internet consumers can choose from various tints and textures of Polyester Crepe, providing versatility. It has an attractive yet affordable design and a flowing construction that falls gracefully over the body to create beautiful silhouettes. Its polished finish gives it a luxurious touch that makes it perfect for evening wear and casual use, accommodating a variety of fashion tastes without going over budget.
Why Crepe is Your Summer Wardrobe BFF
Crepe fabric is more than just another elegant face (or drape, as it were). It’s the main character of summer wardrobes, providing an outstanding blend of flair, comfort, and functionality. Why crepe ought to be your go-to material in the warmer months is as follows:
- Beat the Heat: Crepe’s distinct weave acts as natural air conditioning. Even on the hottest days, the loose weave and slightly raised texture allow tiny air pockets to circulate your skin, keeping you cool and comfortable.
- Effortless Elegance: Even the most basic outfits get a lift with crepe. A flowing crepe dress radiates carefree summer elegance, while a basic crepe tee appears instantly more put together than a standard cotton one. All you need to do is switch up your accessories to go from a laid-back brunch to an elegant evening cocktail.
- A Versatile Fabric: Crepe is an all-purpose fabric. It is available in various weights, textures, and prints. There is a crepe option for any occasion, ranging from lighter chiffon crepes for breezy blouses to heavier Ponte crepes for fitted slacks. Enjoy striking flowers? Crepe is excellent at handling prints. Do you prefer traditional solid colors? Even the rich drape that crepe offers raises even the most basic color.
- Incredibly Durable: Don’t let the delicate look fool you. Surprisingly, crepe is quite resistant to wrinkles and durable. This makes it perfect for travel—throw it in your bag, and it will emerge ready to wear with minimal wrinkles. Additionally, crepe materials stay almost the same, and because of that, the same garments can be worn for many seasons.
Style Crepe Fabric for Every Occasion’s Outfit
Now that you understand the reasons why crepe is a summertime necessity, let’s look at several ways to style it for you:
- Casual Chic: Wear a flowy crepe maxi dress with sandals and a straw hat for a relaxed beach appearance. Pair a cotton crepe top with relaxed-fit jeans for a comfy everyday look.
- Office Chic: A knee-length crepe dress or a fitted crepe pantsuit radiates effortless flair mixed with professionalism.
- Summer Soiree Ready: A flowy crepe jumpsuit with bold jewelry is ideal for a garden party. A silk blouse and a crepe midi skirt make for a stunning summer evening ensemble.
- Date Night Delight: A silk crepe slip dress with strappy heels is timeless and elegant. A playful crepe romper adds a touch of fun and flirty flair.
- Daytime Chic: Mix a lightweight crepe blouse with fitted slacks or a skirt for a polished and elegant appearance.
- Elegant Evenings: For nighttime occasions, dress in crepe fabric or a jumpsuit. The fabric’s fluidity and texture give a touch of elegance to your look.
- Layering: Add crepe fabric as a layering piece. A crepe kimono-style jacket, for example, can make simple trousers and T-shirts look more stylish.
- Accessorize: To complete your style, add crepe fabric scarves, headbands, or belts. They may be adaptable and eye-catching additions to any ensemble.
How to Care for Crepe Fabric
First and most important, always check the care label on your garment to determine the acceptable cleansing approach. Crepe material may be made from silk, cotton, and polyester, requiring different care strategies.
It is frequently encouraged to opt for gentle hand washing instead of using a machine to clean your crepe clothes. Pour lukewarm water into a basin or tub. Now, add a few slight detergents.
Gently shake the water to create suds, then soak your garment for a while. Avoid rubbing or wringing the cloth, which could harm its delicate texture.
After soaking, gently rinse the garment in smooth, cool water until all the detergent is eliminated. To dry your crepe item, lay it flat on a clean towel and lightly roll it as much as soak up any excess water.
Then, unroll the towel and leave the garment to air dry, preferably away from direct sunrays, to save you from fading.
You must be careful while ironing crepe fabric, as high temperatures can damage the cloth. It’s quality to apply a low heat placing and an urgent cloth to offer a barrier between the iron and the material.
Ensure your garment is damp to help the crease glide out more quickly. Remember that some crepes, like crepe de chine and georgette, are meant to have a crinkled texture and need not be ironed anymore.
Finally, proper storage is essential for retaining the form and toughness of your crepe garments.
Avoid putting delicate crepe items on hangers, as this could cause them to stretch through the years. Instead, carefully fold them and keep them in a dry, cool place far from daylight.
Conclusion
The tales of crepe fabrics are fascinating. Crepe fabric is a beautiful combination of sophistication and comfort, making it an excellent choice for any occasion or daily wear. You will quickly learn to love this fabric.
Crepe fabric is entirely cruelty-free and suitable for vegans, which is its best feature. Therefore, purchasing this clothing is environmentally friendly and will not hurt any animal.
By taking proper care of the crepe fabric, you can easily make it an element of your closet that you will always carry for as long as you live.