Looking to make a grand entrance? Then velvet and satin are an excellent place to start. Both materials infuse any silhouette with glamour and sophistication, and both boast a luxurious hand feel that reflects light in distinctive ways. While you’re sure to find satin and velvet at many of the same soirees, these two fabrics couldn’t be more different.
Velvet fabric is characterized by its dense, plush pile, which feels luxuriously soft and plush to the touch. Satin fabric has a smooth, glassy surface that reflects a signature sheen. If you’re looking to choose between velvet and satin for your next special occasion, consider factors like weight, drape, and warmth before you say yes to the dress.
What Makes Velvet Special?
Velvet fabric is a thick, woven fabric created using short fibers that feel luxuriously soft to the touch. Velvet can be crafted from a variety of fibers, like silk, cotton, polyester, rayon, nylon, and wool. Made using a special loom, velvet fabric is woven into two distinct layers, connected by extra warp yarns. When it’s ready, these warp yarns are cut, separating the layers into two separate pieces. The result is a rich, buoyant texture with a subtle sheen and a matte backing.
For more guidance on velvet varieties, read our detailed comparison of velvet-vs-crushed-velvet to understand which texture best suits your design vision.
Velvet feels: rich, soft, opulent
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- Short, uniform fibers create lush softness, like the skin of a peach.
- The plush, cushiony texture feels warm and exceptionally comfortable.
Velvet looks: smooth, radiant, glamorous
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- The silken texture reflects light with an elegant luster.
- Fluid drape that flatters the figure.
What Makes Satin Special?
Satin fabric is known for its glamorous, glassy sheen, achieved by floating weft yarns over multiple warp yarns to form a smooth, unbroken surface with minimal interlacing. This distinctive weave gives satin its signature shine, with a clean, matte texture on the interior.
To better understand fabric options, check out our comprehensive silk-vs-satin-fabric-comparison-guide for detailed insights into these luxurious materials.
Satin feels: fluid, sleek, silky
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- Durable and easy to work with, satin is perfect for elaborate silhouettes and details that hold their shape.
- The smooth surface is especially soft against skin.
Satin looks: glossy, flattering, chic
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- Beloved for its photogenic sheen and flattering drape.
- Smooth texture reflects light in a dramatic fashion.
Velvet vs Satin
Your perfect fabric is all about your taste. Both velvet and satin are ideal for fall and winter bridesmaid dresses, evening gowns, prom dresses, and special occasion attire, and both are available in a wide variety of textures, colors, and patterns.
If you’re looking for:
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- warmth
- a flattering fit
- regal romance
- timeless elegance
- high end glamour
We recommend the thicker feel and smooth luster of velvet.
If you’re looking for:
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- breathability
- a curve-skimming fit
- photogenic shine
- modern appeal
- elevated casual
We recommend the fluid drape and sleek shine of satin.
Can a velvet blazer be casual? Yes. Can a satin gown be formal? Absolutely. The only limit is your imagination, and if you’re working with velvet and/or satin, the result is sure to look stunning.
Browse our full catalog of luxury satin and velvet fabrics to discover a wealth of options, like sequins, glitter, embroidery, burnout patterns, cheetah print, and more. At Zelouf, every fabric is available by the yard, in-stock and ready to ship directly to you.
Planning a wedding? Our specialized satin-vs-chiffon-wedding-dress-guide helps you choose the perfect fabric for your dream gown.
Velvet and Satin for Formal Events and Home Decor
Velvet makes a dramatic statement on the dancefloor, as well as the walls and windows of your home and special event spaces. Velvet drapery, upholstery, and bedding make a big impact with minimal input, bringing a touch of royalty to any room.
Satin is a showstopper for much more than formal wear, too. From curtains and pillows to the silky warmth of satin sheets, this lustrous material looks and feels like luxury.
How to Care for Velvet and Satin
Velvet: Machine wash cold. Use gentle detergent and never use bleach. Do not wring, rub, or twist. Then tumble dry using low heat and remove immediately, or lay flat to dry.
Satin: Among its many benefits, satin is durable, wrinkle-resistant, and easy to care for. Most synthetic satin fabrics are low-maintenance and machine-washable. Tumble dry low or lay flat to dry.
Find Your Fabric
Velvet and satin have the unique ability to elevate any silhouette. Whether you seek the glamour of an evening gown, the everyday appeal of a statement coat, or the timeless look of a perfectly tailored suit, our extensive collection of velvet and satin fabrics is curated to inspire bold, beautifully constructed garments. Our filters make it easy to shop by weight, fiber, or finish, and once you’re ready to commit, you can request a FREE swatch (plus shipping) to preview the color, texture, and drape before moving into production.
From first-time fashionistas to expert designers, our velvet and satin fabric collections provide a lasting foundation for ready-to-wear lines, formalwear, bridal gowns, and luxe home decor. Shop our massive selection of satin and velvet fabrics, all available by the yard, and ready to ship directly to you.
