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Chloe Pale Blue Rose Gold Polyester Metallic Lurex Jacquard Brocade Floral Woven Dress Fabric

Taffeta & Brocade Fabric

Taffeta and brocade are structured, lustrous fabrics made for eveningwear, occasion pieces and festive sewing. Our collection is rich in woven brocades with raised metallic and floral motifs, alongside crisp plain taffeta and decorative festive designs.

From prom and party dresses to Christmas makes and statement skirts, these fabrics hold their shape and catch the light. Order a sample to see the colour and sheen before you buy.

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Taffeta and brocade are both prized for occasionwear, but they're quite different fabrics. Taffeta is a crisp, smooth fabric with a subtle sheen and a characteristic rustle, while brocade is a richly patterned cloth with raised, woven designs. Together they cover most of what you'll reach for when making something structured and special.

Taffeta and brocade - what's the difference?

Taffeta is a tightly woven plain fabric with a smooth surface and a crisp, papery handle that holds volume well, ideal for full skirts and structured bodices. Brocade is a jacquard-woven fabric with patterns, often florals or metallic motifs, raised into the surface during weaving. Brocade has a definite right and wrong side, with the pattern's floats visible on the reverse.

What's in this collection

  • Woven brocade: floral and metallic jacquard designs with a luxurious, raised surface.
  • Plain taffeta: crisp, solid colours with a soft sheen for classic occasion pieces.
  • Festive and novelty taffeta: star, flocked, crinkle and sparkle designs for Christmas and party makes.

Sewing with taffeta and brocade

Both fabrics can fray, so finish the seams and consider lining, which also improves comfort against the stiffer weaves. Interfacing helps support structured bodices and waistbands. Use fine pins within the seam allowance to avoid leaving marks, and a fine needle. Many of these fabrics are best dry-cleaned, so check the care guidance on the individual product page before you start.

What is the difference between taffeta and brocade?

Taffeta is a crisp, smooth fabric with a soft sheen and a slight rustle, used for full skirts and structured bodices. Brocade is a jacquard-woven fabric with raised patterns, often floral or metallic, woven into the surface. Taffeta is about crispness and sheen; brocade is about pattern and texture.

Does taffeta fray a lot?

Yes, taffeta can fray readily because of its tight, smooth weave, so it's worth finishing the seam edges and handling cut pieces carefully. Lining the garment and using French or enclosed seams where possible helps keep the inside neat and hard-wearing.

Is taffeta stiff, and will it hold a shape?

Taffeta has a crisp, structured handle that holds volume well, which is exactly why it's chosen for full skirts, structured bodices and prom-style dresses. If you want softer drape, a lighter taffeta or a different fabric may suit better. A sample shows you the body before you commit.

Does brocade have a right and wrong side?

Yes. The pattern is woven so that the design sits raised and clear on the right side, while the reverse shows the floating threads that form it. The reverse is usually hidden inside the garment, and lining gives a tidy finish and protects against the loose threads.

Can you wash taffeta and brocade?

Many taffetas and brocades, especially those with metallic threads, are best dry-cleaned to protect the surface and colour. Some are more robust. Always check the care guidance on the individual product page, and test a sample if you hope to wash the finished item.

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