Brocade is a heavy, decorative drapery and garment fabric recognized for its prominent, three-dimensional embossed patterns. [1, 2]
The Weave: Woven using a supplementary weft technique. The decorative design threads are only woven into localized areas rather than the full length of the textile.
Appearance & Texture: Features highly raised, textured motifs that feel "puffed" or elevated to the touch. It frequently integrates metallic gold or silver threads for an opulent, metallic shine.
Reversibility: Strictly non-reversible. The backside of a brocade fabric displays uneven, loose "floating" pattern threads, meaning only the front side can be used.
Structure & Weight: Heavy, firm, and stiff. Its structural stiffness gives exceptional body and bounce to structured garments like ballgowns, corsets, coats, and ceremonial wear.