Often used as an adjective, satin refers to a fabric with a smooth and lustrous surface. Originally woven from silk, today, it’s also made of polyester and other synthetic fabrics. While the use of these materials may offer advantages like lower prices, they do not hold up well when it comes to durability and eco-friendliness. When you’re shopping for a new dress or sheet set, you should take the time to look beyond the satin label and consider how these products are sourced.
It can be easy to confuse satin with silk, as both are woven from threads obtained from mulberry silkworms. While silk has a more luxurious feel and look, satin is actually a specific type of weave and not a raw material. This weave structure uses fewer warp threads to create the lustrous finish. Rather than a twill weave, which interlaces weft yarns over several warp threads before going under one, satin interlaces weft threads over only three or four warp threads, depending on the type of satin.
The word satin itself is derived from Zaitun, the Arabic name for the Chinese port of Quanzhou, where this particular weave first originated about 2,000 years ago. It soon spread across Asia and eventually into Europe, where it became a sought-after item for garments among the upper classes.
The silky, soft texture and glossy appearance of satin has made it a favorite for garments such as lingerie, dresses, and slippers. It’s also popular for linings, ties, and boxer shorts. However, since this fabric isn’t very durable, it tends to get damaged quickly by rough usage.