Both taffeta and satin are weaves usually made from silk or some other artificial fiber. At the outset, both these fabrics appear to be the same, unless you inspect and feel them. As such, this Fashionhance article helps you understand the differences between taffeta and satin.
► Want a lightweight dress to carry? … Choose Taffeta.
► Want a luxurious dress to flaunt a gorgeous body shape? … Choose Satin
Be it the quinceanera, a wedding, or a prom night, choosing not only the color but the right fabric for your dress can indeed be a daunting task. Every bride wants both, her wedding dress and the bridesmaid dresses to be perfect (so that her wedding pictures look lovely!). If you’re looking for glossy fabrics with a silky weave, the most common ones that will come to your mind would be satin and taffeta.
Taffeta and satin look quite similar. However, only when you feel these fabrics can you sense the difference between them. Both are usually used for wedding and formal dresses. They’re mostly used in women’s formal wear. Satin usually symbolizes luxury, given its cost. However, a good quality taffeta fabric can be costly too. Both taffeta and satin are made of silk, and these days even from artificial fibers such as nylon or polyester.
To make the correct choice that suits your needs, you need to understand the basic difference between both these fabrics. The following is a brief comparison between the two that will help you out.
Taffeta Vs. Satin
Feel
Taffeta: Taffeta is more coarse and textured as compared to satin.
Satin: Satin is softer and smoother than taffeta, due to its weave.
Weight
Taffeta: Taffeta is lightweight, hence, can be comfortably worn.
Satin: Satin is heavier than taffeta, which makes it slightly uncomfortable to carry.
Weaving Patterns
Taffeta: It literally means ‘twisted woven’. It uses a simple weave method, where weft and warp threads are woven together alternatively.
Satin: It is a weave pattern done in such a manner that the intersection of warp and weft create a smooth surface for the face of the cloth.
Uses
Taffeta: Since it is crisp and lightweight, it is better used in full-length ballroom gowns that need to hold their shape. It is also used in linings, umbrellas, and ribbons.
Satin: Satin is preferred by designers who need to make elegant and beautiful gowns, since it is heavier and clings to the body. It looks great on a well-shaped body. Satin is also easier to drape. Other than that, it is used in bed sheets, lingerie, and upholstery.
Some Common Types
Taffeta: Paper Taffeta, Antique Taffeta, Shot Taffeta
Satin: Duchesse Satin, Crepe Satin, Velvet Satin
Conclusion
Taffeta is cheaper than satin. Both are glossy, however, some claim that taffeta appears more shinier. Some complain that taffeta dresses make a rustling sound while walking. Both satin and taffeta are prone to creases. However, satin requires high maintenance. A taffeta dress is easier to carry, yet satin gives more oomph to a dress. Both these fabrics require proper care and dry-cleaning.
In short, both fabrics have an equal number of pros and cons. Hence, it completely depends on your priority. If you want soft material which sticks to the body, opt for satin. However, if you want the dress to stand well, appear crispier, and be lightweight, taffeta is the better option.
