What Is Brocade Fabric?

Long associated with opulence and style, brocade fabrics feature simple to extravagant designs in relief. Colored threads construct the raised areas, creating greater contrast and drawing attention to the pattern.

Identification

Brocade fabric is a unique woven pattern employing threads of more than one color to depict a raised design against a flat background.

Features

Gold or silver threads are sometimes used to highlight the patterns woven into brocade fabric.

Uses

Brocade fabrics are used in both upholstery and clothing, with their decorative patterns often reserved for designer dresses and other upscale garments.

Considerations

Since they typically feature textured or metallic threads, the raised patterns in brocade fabrics may be scratchy. These expensive threads and elaborate designs ensure brocade is used for outerwear, since the patterns are meant to be seen and admired.

Misconceptions

While similar, brocade and damask fabrics are not the same thing. Damask fabrics use only one thread color, with the raised pattern matching the background color.

References

• Fashion-Era.com
• CorsetHeaven.com
• Lord of the Rings Costume