Fabrics compared
| Fabric | Feel | Best for | Holds heavy stones? | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton or cotton blend | Soft, breathable, matte | Everyday jalabiya, home wear | Light only | All year, best in summer |
| Linen | Crisp, airy, creases easily | Casual kaftan | Light only | Summer |
| Hareer (silk-feel) | Smooth, soft sheen, drapes well | Eid jalabiya, occasion kaftan | Medium | All year |
| Crepe | Fluid, lightly textured, resists wrinkles | Kaftan, jalabiya, maghribi | Medium to heavy | All year |
| Chiffon or georgette | Sheer, floaty, needs lining | Kaftan, thobe (soube) | Light to medium | All year |
| Organza, tulle or net | Sheer, structured, airy | Thobe (soube) over-dress | Medium, spread out | Evening events |
| Satin | Glossy, rich, heavier | Maghribi, evening kaftan | Heavy | Winter, evening |
| Velvet | Deep colour, warm, luxurious | Maghribi, winter occasions | Heavy | Winter (November–February) |
| Brocade or jacquard | Woven pattern, stiff | Maghribi, statement pieces | Heavy | Winter, weddings |
Five tips before you choose
- Match the weight to the stones. Heavy stone work on chiffon pulls and sags. Put it on crepe, satin or a lined base.
- Think about the venue. Outdoor summer events call for cotton, hareer or chiffon. Air-conditioned halls can take satin and velvet.
- Check the colour in daylight. Colours shift under shop lights, so step to the door before you decide.
- Ask about lining. Sheer fabrics need a lining for modesty. We add it to custom pieces.
- Bring your own fabric if you like. We tailor fabric you already own, and we will tell you if it suits the design.
In our shop you can touch and compare every fabric, and see readymade pieces made from them, before you decide.