Boucle is an unusual material. Its surface resembles astrakhan and is covered with many small curls. Coco Chanel first introduced it into the world of fashion in the middle of the 20th century. Nowadays, it can have different surface structures. It is also in demand among fashionistas.
What kind of clothing fabric is this?
Initially, boucle material was used to sew skirts and jackets. Now it is often used as a coat fabric. It is rough to the touch with small curls. It is knitted from knotted threads. The thickness of the wool depends on the thickness of the material and curls. The main component is wool. It can also include viscose, synthetics and cotton. A mixture of Australian merino wool and silk gives a stunning shine. Despite its high density, it is quite light and soft. It fits well on the figure, hugging it. It stretches well. It does not need additional decor, as it has a stylish look in itself.
Tweed is considered one of the varieties of boucle material. It is softer, the knots are arranged in the form of inclusions. They are smaller than those of boucle. Outerwear made of this fabric is warm, protects well from cold and wind. It does not wrinkle, is wear-resistant and practical to wear.
History and varieties
Boucle was first discussed in the 20th century. The fabric owes its worldwide fame to Coco Chanel. Translated from French, boucle means "curls". Audrey Hepburn and Sophia Loren were big fans of suits and coats made of this fabric. It is currently used by many fashion houses, in particular by designers from Lagerfeld's company. To answer the question - what is boucle, you need to consider its structure and structure.
Boucle is a woolen fabric made of several shades, creating an unusual texture. The weave structure is not very dense, but strong enough. The material is obtained not only from wool, but also from cotton. It is not found in its pure form. It always contains mixed fibers. It can be polyester or viscose. The material is distinguished by thickness depending on the threads used and color. In terms of colors, boucle can be multi-colored, interspersed with different shades, striped or checked. Very popular are the colors "chicken" or "goose foot". Its cost is high.
Currently, there are special technologies that allow producing different types of boucle material. It can vary in thickness and porosity. The appearance and structure depend on the yarn. Knotted yarn creates pellets on the surface of the boucle, forming a special structure. Cut boucle allows you to get a fluffiness effect. In this case, the cut threads protrude slightly. If the thread is twisted in a special way, you can get a thin boucle material.
Depending on the thickness, it can be used to make various interior items and clothing.
What to consider when buying bouclé fabric
When buying knitwear called boucle, you need to consider what kind of product this material is intended for. Its density is very high, so it protects very well from rain and wind. It is perfect for beginner seamstresses, since the texture of the material helps to hide all the defects and unevenness of the stitching. When sewing, it is necessary to use a lining, since the fabric is prone to fraying.
Important! Clothes visually add volume, but at the same time can hide some figure flaws.
By combining clothes made of this fabric with other materials, you can create a romantic, youthful or business image. Always goes well with jeans.
What is most often sewn from boucle
The quality of boucle is very high. It is used not only for sewing clothes, but also for interior decoration. It has become widespread in the following things:
- dresses and suits. Use a fine boucle structure;
- coat. Thick wool material. Suitable for tall and slender girls;
- furniture upholstery. Consists mainly of polyester. Soft to the touch, but very wear-resistant;
- curtains and interior pillows. The material includes wool and viscose. Comes with a silk lining;
- rugs. In this case, it is made on a synthetic base.
The most common models are made of brown boucle fabric. It is universal for use by both women and men. It is allowed to be used in accessories. Hats, scarves, and bags are made from it.
What to wear with
Individual wardrobe items can be combined with jeans. In this case, a look of a jacket and skinny jeans will look great. Boucle threads create a texture that will look stylish in a set with long airy skirts of a strict, business silhouette, trousers. A warm tweed suit can be complemented with a silk blouse.
The coat can be worn with both jeans and a skirt. Boots are suitable as footwear. In the case of an oversized coat, the look can be complemented with sneakers. A fitted model can create both a romantic and a business look. A leather or suede belt can be added as an accessory. A pencil skirt or dress can complete the romantic look. Outerwear can be worn in cold weather, as it retains heat very well.
Men's outerwear looks great when paired with a classic suit and jeans.
Recommendations for sewing from boucle
To prevent shrinkage of the material, it must be decatized before sewing, that is, subjected to wet-heat treatment. One of the characteristics of the fabric is its ability to crumble. Therefore, it is advisable to process the edges with an overlock. In case of strong stretching, it must be ironed and when sewing parts, put organza under the line, which can then be cut off.
Due to the loose structure, the pattern markings must be done with tailor's chalk or basting threads. The interlining for this type of material is best made of non-woven fabric.
The threads needed for sewing clothes from bouclé fabric should be made of polyester. When overcasting loops, be sure to put organza underneath. It can be cut off later, and thanks to it, the product will not stretch and will look neat.
Operating recommendations
Care is carried out in a gentle mode. It is not recommended to wash, it is best to use dry dry cleaning. Sometimes you can clean with a dry brush. In case of wet clothes, it is recommended to dry them by laying them out on a flat surface away from sunlight. Ironing is necessary only through the backing with a not very hot iron.
Important! You should also follow the care instructions on the garment label.
It is better to store clothes made of this material in a special cover, since in case of careless handling it may get snagged. It is necessary to put a moth repellent in the closet.
Important! Clothes made from such fabric are prohibited from being stored in a drawer or suitcase.
Advantages and disadvantages
Answering the question - what is boucle fabric, it is necessary to highlight its positive and negative sides.
The advantages of this material include:
- very dense, protects well from rain and wind. At the same time, the structure of the fabric allows the body to breathe, protecting it from overheating;
- light and soft to the touch;
- stretches well and fits beautifully;
- practically does not wrinkle;
- beautiful appearance and many colors;
- Defects made during sewing are practically invisible on the material.
There are few disadvantages to bouclé. Here is a list of them:
- crumbles during cutting;
- it is difficult to choose a model for overweight women, since boucle visually increases the volume of the figure;
- If handled carelessly, the material may develop snags and threads may become pulled out.
Customer Reviews
Irina, 28 years old:
"I bought a suit made of boucle fabric. I really like it. Lightweight, comfortable to wear. Perfect for both a romantic dinner and work. No problems with care. Very pleased with the quality. The price is also reasonable."
Anna, 42 years old:
"I spent the entire autumn wearing a coat made of boucle fabric. When I bought it, I was attracted by the beautiful appearance of the fabric and the original coloring. It is highly durable. I wore it the entire season, and it looks like new. It protects perfectly from bad weather. I have never felt cold in it. It is light and soft. There is no feeling of heaviness from wearing outerwear, which usually weighs a lot. I am very happy with my choice."
Elina, 25 years old:
"I bought a boucle skirt. I wear it very often. It goes well with both business and romantic style blouses. It looks great with various accessories: handbags and hats. I often wear a leather or suede belt with it. I also want to buy a jacket made of this material."
Boucle is a practical and elegant material. It creates a special style and feelings for its owner. Clothes made of this fabric will emphasize the sophistication and good taste of a woman. The most beautiful girls in the world chose clothes made of this type of fabric. Boucle perfectly emphasizes the figure of a tall and slender woman, helps to hide flaws. Accessories made using boucle material will be a cozy addition to the interior.
