The Opulence Beauty of the Brocades

Gladys Rodríguez-Dod
Exclusively By Rex Fabrics
Fine Fabrics from Around the World

There is no other fabric with the opulence, luxury, elegance, and beauty of the brocade. In traditional tones such as black and white, today we see them in unexpected colors creating even greater drama.

Showing a weave pattern, this silk fabric is at times entwined with gold or silver threads. It stands out in part due to the woven reliefs of its designs, where one can appreciate diverse themes, a rather complex and meticulous job.

Ever since ancient times, Syrian cities were known for its textile industry, and it is here, more than three centuries ago, where the brocade and damask fabrics were born, rapidly spreading throughout the rest of the world. The name, though, comes from the Italian word broccato, meaning a textile with a relief appearance. In spite of its high cost, pretty soon it became the designers’ fabric of choice for use in clothing as well as in decorating.

The industry could have well disappeared, but it was modernized with great success in 1935. Today it is woven in many countries, not only in silk but satin, velvet, and even cotton, this last one ideal for daytime wear.

It is a marvelous fabric and the one of choice for the best-known designers, the end result is ideal, without a doubt, for grand soirées. Nowadays it is used for all sorts of articles.

The different kinds of brocades are defined by the elements employed in its weave that contrast with the color of the silk, and at times outlined with silver and gold threads. The Germans prefer the color blue; the Swedes, the light tones; and the Americans, grey. Black is the favorite of Latin women, while white is the choice for wedding dresses and the deep tones for grand occasions.

We must remember this fabric is also used in grand ceremonies. Consequently, we cannot forget that Queen Elizabeth II wore a white brocade gown for her coronation in 1954, the fabric is a gift of the Syrian government to Great Britain.

During the most recent Haute Couture collections in Paris, brocades in winter tones such as brown were seen in VALENTINO’s cocktail dresses. On the other hand, ULYANA SERGEENKO opted for mixing sophisticated and sumptuous gold brocade skirts and large brown wool jackets with embroidered cuffs, thus attaining a simpler but very sophisticated style.

Not too long ago, I visited Rex Fabrics and looked around the second floor, and was marveled at the selection available. There are brocades that fit any occasion and that is why we can make some extraordinary dresses and outfits… for the morning as well as after dawn! The colors I saw were fascinating and the softness of the materials of the utmost elegance.

I was captivated by a green brocade and right away thought of a backdrop for a long evening gown with a deep low neckline. I found another black one that was ideal for a two-piece cocktail suit and it would also look perfect in gold for a very dramatic design that would allow us to make a grand entrance anywhere.

That’s why today I invite all my readers to come to Rex Fabrics and discover the magic of the brocades… it’s chic… and the delicious luxury the textile emanates. ¿Will I see you here soon?