Abayas are an indispensable item in any woman's wardrobe. Their design and manufacturing process depend on the quality and appropriate properties of the fabric. These are items that require fabrics that are both comfortable and elegant. So, can crepe fabric be used for abayas? What are its advantages and disadvantages? What are its most common types? We'll explore these details in some detail in the following lines.
Features of crepe fabric for abayas
Crepe is a versatile fabric that is both durable and easy to care for. It's made from natural materials like silk fibers or synthetic materials like polyester. More than one material can be combined to create crepe fabric for abayas, combining durability and comfort.
- Shiny surface : This is the ideal feature for making abayas for formal occasions, as crepe has a subtle shiny surface that is somewhat similar to the luster of silk fabric.
- Breathable : Abayas are usually worn in the summer, so they must be made of breathable material to ensure air flows smoothly and flexibly to the skin.
- Wrinkle-resistant : Crepe is a relatively wrinkle-resistant fabric; it does not wrinkle easily, so you do not need to iron it every time you wear your abaya.
- Strength and durability : Crepe fabric is made of high-quality fibers, which gives it durability and makes it resistant to external factors.
- Flexibility and fluidity : Despite its durability, it is considered one of the flexible fabrics suitable for making abayas, as it can stretch to accommodate the body's constant movement.
Disadvantages of crepe fabric for abayas
Although crepe fabric has many advantages, there are a few disadvantages you should be aware of before purchasing it to design your new abaya. These disadvantages vary depending on the type, as follows:
- Some crepes that are too soft may stick to the body in hot weather.
- There are some luxurious types that are more expensive than others, such as silk crepe.
- Some types of crepe are sheer and require another layer of clothing, such as chiffon crepe.
- Some delicate crepes may be more prone to tearing if subjected to strong pressure or stretching.
- Some types are easy to wrinkle, so they require special care and ironing every time you use them.
Common types of crepe fabrics
Since crepe fabric's emergence in the fashion world, it has become one of the most popular materials used in clothing, particularly abayas. This is due to its luxurious appearance and its convenient properties, which combine elegance and flexibility. However, it's worth noting that there are several types of crepe fabric, each with its own specific characteristics, as follows:
1- Crepe Georgette
Typically used in layered and ruffled abayas, it's lightweight and soft, making the abaya appear flowing and elegant. Buy a two-fold summer crepe abaya from Dana Al Hassan at a competitive price.
2- Saudi crepe
Also known as royal crepe, it is characterised by its high quality, durability and deep black colour, and is available in different types with varying weights and thicknesses.
3- Silk crepe
Combining the qualities of crepe and silk fabrics, it has a subtle sheen and a noticeable fluidity, adding a touch of sophistication and elegance to the design. Therefore, its price is higher than other types, and it requires special care. However, it remains a popular choice for evening dresses and abayas. The black abaya with silk crepe sleeves is a great choice for elegant evening events.
4- Cotton crepe
Crepe is one of the most popular fabrics used in abayas and dresses. Made from 100% cotton, it's durable and high-quality, making it an ideal choice for everyday use, especially during hot summer days.
5- Polyester crepe
It is made from a blend of polyester and cotton fibers, making it a durable yet comfortable option. It retains its shape without wrinkling or distorting easily, and it is also easy to care for.
6- Crepe chiffon
It is often used to create an outer layer for an abaya, or in elegant abaya designs, and is very light and transparent.
7- Crepe satin
It is used in the manufacture of abayas with designs that combine elegance and practicality at the same time, as it features a glossy and matte surface and is lightweight.
Why choose crepe fabric to make your abaya?
Crepe fabric has long been used in the manufacture of abayas, and is a preferred fabric for a wide range of women's clothing. This is due to its properties, which make it a preferred choice for many women, including:
- It is available in different weights, including light, medium, and heavy, making it a suitable choice for different seasons and designs.
- It has a slightly wrinkled or grainy surface, which gives it a good texture on the skin and an elegant, unconventional appearance.
- It has a smooth, fluid feel to the body, making the abaya look elegant and comfortable to wear.
- It is a wrinkle-resistant material, making it an ideal choice for everyday use, work, or travel.
- Despite its softness, it is a durable material that is suitable for repeated use and can be easily maintained.
- It can be made from different materials, such as silk, cotton, polyester, and wool, resulting in different types at various prices.
- It is available in a wide range of colors, ensuring that you can find the color that suits your taste without any hassle.
- Some types of crepe fabrics are very breathable, especially those made from natural or high-quality synthetic fibers.
- It is considered an easily shaped fabric, so it can be used to create different cuts and designs for abayas with ease.
How to care for crepe fabric to maintain its quality
Choosing crepe fabric for abayas is an ideal choice for a distinctive look. However, maintaining its luster and quality for a long time depends on the extent of adherence to the care method. Despite the variety of types and the different care methods depending on each type, there are a few instructions that should be kept in mind to maintain its overall quality, which are:
- It is preferable to hand wash crepe abayas using cold water and a suitable detergent, free of harsh materials that damage the fabric and cause it to wear out quickly.
- If you use a washing machine instead of hand washing, place your abaya in a laundry bag to protect it from rubbing against other fabrics, and choose a low temperature.
- Hang the abaya in a well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight to dry naturally. If the fabric is silk crepe, it is preferable to wrap it in a cotton towel to absorb moisture.
- When drying your abaya with an electric dryer, choose a low temperature setting, as high temperatures can damage and fray the fabric.
- Synthetic crepe fabric does not require regular ironing, so it can be ironed at a low temperature, or steamed to remove only visible wrinkles.
- Silk crepe fabric requires special care when ironing. Use a low-temperature iron or place a piece of cotton between the iron and the abaya to preserve its texture.
- Crepe abayas should be stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. It is preferable to hang them on cloth hangers to avoid distortion, and to use bags to protect them from dust.
If you decide that crepe fabric for abayas is the best choice for your needs and taste, don't hesitate to visit our Dana Al Hassan store and start a unique shopping experience. Find what you need among the finest elegant abaya designs, available at competitive prices, so you'll surely find something that suits your budget.
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