Have you ever wondered why is silk called the queen of fabrics? Silk is one of the most coveted fabrics in the world, renowned for its luster, smoothness, strength, and durability. It has made its mark in the fabric industry for being the epitome of luxury. For thousands of years, silk has been the fabric of empresses and royals. So what is it that makes silk the Queen of Textiles? To find out why silk is one of the most sought-after fabrics for clothing, let’s begin with understanding what silk is.
What is Silk?
Silk is a natural fiber that has a long trading history across the world. The pure, natural silk fiber is produced by insects for their nests and cocoons. The most common type of silk is cultivated from the cocoon of mulberry silkworm larvae. However, other insects can also produce silk, such as beetles, honey bees, bumblebees, weaver ants, and more. The silkworm uses the fine silk thread to spin its cocoon. This protein thread is considered to be the finest and strongest natural fiber in the world.
What Makes Silk Famous?
Oscar de la Renta rightly said, “Silk does for the body what diamonds do for the hand.” For centuries, silk has remained one of the most loved and luxurious fabrics. It is the characteristic of this fabric that has made silk famous across the globe. It has a natural sheen and softness that gives a comfortable feel and elegant appearance. However, the process of weaving is complex and time-consuming which makes silk expensive. Now, let’s take a look at the top qualities of silk that makes it a timeless fabric.
1. Naturally Hypoallergenic
People with allergies adore silk because of its hypoallergenic properties. The natural silk has sericin residue that acts as a natural repellent to keeps away dust mites and common allergens. As a naturally hypoallergenic fabric, silk is the best fabric for those with asthma, allergies, or sensitive skin. In addition to allergies, silk also suits sensitive skin people because the fabric doesn’t irritate skin and even has insulating properties. It has a smooth texture that feels soft on the skin.
2. Versatile Fabric
Silk is one of the most versatile fabrics that are not only used for making garments but can also be used for other purposes. Also, the fabric works well in both summer and winter. Its absorbent properties make it perfect for summer while a low conductive property makes it a winter wear fabric. From bridal gowns to party wear silk dresses, the fabric is used for luxurious dressing. It is not only loved by women but men equally love this fabric for ties. Silk comes in a variety of colors that can be used for clothing, decoration, bedding, and more.
3. Comfortable and Durable
Silk is famous for its strength and durability. Even if the fabric is lightweight and sleek, the thread is strong enough to last a lifetime. Besides strength and durability, silk fiber also has great elasticity and resilience. The qualities like shiny luxurious appearance, comfy feel, and durability make silk the finest material for clothing.