Pique fabric is a distinctive and adaptable material that can be worn with formal and casual attire. Pique, which is distinguished by its unique textured surface, gives clothes a hint of sophistication and elegance without sacrificing comfort or durability.
From sophisticated dresses and blazers to traditional polo shirts, this fabric is well-liked for a wide range of clothing items. The key to Pique’s appeal is its distinctive design, which blends fashion and functionality.
This post will examine the qualities, composition, varieties, and proper maintenance of pique fabric, all of which contribute to its uniqueness.
| Aspect | Details |
| Type of Fabric | Pique is a textured knit fabric known for its raised patterns and durability. |
| Composition | Usually made from cotton, but can also include blends with polyester or elastane for added stretch and durability. |
| Properties | Breathable, durable, and slightly stretchy with a unique textured surface. |
| Types | Includes single-knit and double-knit pique, with variations in thickness and texture. |
| Care | Machine washable in cold water, tumble dry low, and iron on low if necessary. |
General idea
Dense knit fabric with an intricate weave that creates a surface pattern resembling waffles is called pique fabric. Multiple layers of superposed threads create pores that allow air to pass through. Pique is a type of fabric with a double weave, meaning it has a stiff back and a thin top. The fabric’s structure is only visible from the front and can take the shape of squares, diamonds, honeycombs, or very rarely, stripes. Pique can also have ribs that vary in thickness.
The original texture gives the piece a pleasing appearance. The fabric is named "piqué" because it looks like a stitched canvas on the outside. The word "quilted" or "stitched" in French refers to this appearance.
Pique products maintain their shape because of their density. Certain varieties stretch better and have less dense weaving. It should be mentioned that pique is also the familiar waffle fabric used for towels.
Historical background
At the start of the 20th century, the content first became available. It is occasionally referred to as Lacoste because of its history with the sportswear company Lacoste. Rene Lacoste, a tennis player, was the first to compete in a tournament wearing a polo shirt made of a novel textile that was comfortable and did not impede movement. It’s intriguing that the sportsman himself designed the material that first carried his name. It is well known that athletes’ uniforms were made of flannel prior to the invention of pique. The fabric became well-known very fast and was used to create the iconic polo shirts with the patch pocket featuring an alligator logo.
Pique is a multipurpose fabric that is popular in apparel like polo shirts because of its textured surface and durability. Usually composed of cotton or cotton blends, it provides comfort and breathability. Pique is available in a variety of types, each with distinct weights and patterns that match with different types of clothing. To keep it looking and feeling like new, proper care entails low-temperature washing.
Composition
As originally intended, pique can only be made of natural cotton or a blend of cotton and synthetic materials. The ratio can be 50/50, or the percentage of natural fiber can be restricted to 30–40% in order to lower the fabric’s cost. Additives include nylon, elastane, lycra, polyester, and occasionally viscose or wool.
The material made entirely of cotton is more costly and less long-lasting; additives provide it with elasticity and wear resistance.
Fascinating! Even dextose, a type of corn fiber, is used to make Lacoste fabric. The material dries fast and is soft.
Description of positive properties
Pique’s qualities make the material suitable for sportswear, casual attire, and more:
- Durable material is resistant to deformation and durable;
- does not wrinkle or stretch when worn;
- comfortable and pleasant to the body;
- fits the figure and does not limit movements;
- good hygroscopicity and breathability;
- retains bright color for a long time and does not shrink after washing;
- hypoallergenic and easy to care for;
- antibacterial properties resist the development of fungi, mold and dust mites;
- convenient for cutting and sewing.
Types of pique
- Traditional French knitwear for making polo shirts.
- Children"s – a material made of pure cotton, dense and with a small fleece on the inside.
- Flannel is a durable fabric with a thick fleece on the reverse side. Can be used for outerwear.
Pique can be dyed plain, variegated, or bleached.
Distinctive qualities of LACOSTE clothing
It should be immediately noted that products bearing the LACOSTE brand are regarded as high-end. Stretching elite knitwear with your hands is a challenge. Clothing features flawless stitching and superior processing. The tag states that the production bases are in Asian countries. The labels that include the composition and care instructions are sewn on by the manufacturer. The "polo" has buttons that are a different color from the fabric. "Crocodile" is always stitched with fishing line and painted green.
Scope of use
Of course, dresses, turtlenecks, sportswear, polo shirts, and T-shirts are the main uses of pique. Men’s shirts are made from the fabric and are worn for work and daily wear. Nevertheless, the range of application does not end here:
- Jackets and tracksuits.
- Big nomenclature of children"s clothing.
- Bathrooms, dresses, trousers.
- Home textiles: tablecloths, napkins, towels.
- Designer jackets and objects of lightweight, outerwear.
- Decorative elements, such as pockets, strips, collars.
Pique fabric is a strong, adaptable material that has a distinct texture and offers comfort. Pique is a popular material for both casual wear, such as polo shirts, and cozy bed linens because it combines strength and breathability.
Its material, which is usually a mix of synthetic and cotton fibers, guarantees that it will not only feel soft but also withstand frequent use. Pique comes in a variety of forms, from stretch to double knit, to meet different needs, whether you’re looking for something more flexible or more structured.
Your pique clothing and textiles can last a long time with the right maintenance, such as gentle washing and cautious storage. When selecting pique fabric for your home or wardrobe, knowing these important features of the fabric will help you make an informed choice.
