Chiffonization

Chiffon is a lightweight, balanced plain woven sheer fabric, or gauze. The twist in the crepe yarns puckers the fabric slightly in both directions after weaving, giving it some stretch and a slightly r ough feel.

Early chiffon was made purely from silk but now after man made fabrics were introduced there are polyester and different kinds of varieties available.

  Over the years understanding fabrics and designs, I feel chiffon is underrated cause in India chiffon is associated with Yash Raj heroines clad in chiffon sarees, but the potential of the fabric doesn’t end there. The fall and texture of the fabric makes it usable for all sorts of design, its delicate yes but elegant for sure.http://www.sobianazir.net  Chiffon suits with print and embroidery are the perfect summer outfit for dressy occassions. Its light and airy but the lining should be flowy and breathable so cotton restricts the fall. I always find butter crepe works best due to its fall.   The best chiffons are the ones made from pure silk as they have the sheen and softness. The most iconic silk chiffon used was the plunging neckline dress by Versace for Jennifer Lopez. The versatility of the fabric, whether printed, embroidered or the latest trend hand painted makes it elegant. In India,  the focus has been more on organza and net but I feel chiffon stands a class apart. Painted chiffon sarees look classy even for an evening summer soiree depending on how you style it.   Heavy chiffon suits with embroidery or even patches add a touch of class amongst the run of the mill embroidered net and cotton suits for summer night parties. Its sheerness is not its drawback but actually its strength as it makes the fabric light and does not add bulkiness in the silhouette.
   Chiffon sleeves are best without lining as they are sheer but if cut well can be an adornment on ones arms. Chiffon dresses and skirts (long or short) add a flow to a structured outfit.   Mostly available in pastels but now they have darker colors as well. Ots a dyeing fabric so can be changed a couple of times . Very popular as a  drape but now is even used for jackets , shrugs and capes.
  Things to keep in mind while choosing a chiffon outfit :
  • Colour : Its not necessary that dark colours always make us slim. Chiffon works best in pastels or brighter shades as it adds an airiness to a silhouette.
  • Attachments :  Edgings and borders are used to enhance a fabric giving it a more occasion wear touch. Heavy borders are a big no as they will weight it down or tear it as it is a very light fabric.
  • Decorations : Threadwork is best with different colours and little sequins. Stone work can cause tears. Sequins give a nice shimmer. Paint adds elegance making it an art piece.
  • Silhouette: Since it is flowy in nature it’s not necessary to have a voluminous silhouette or skirt. I find it looks best in very basic straight or aline or sheath in terms of dresses, tops and kurtas. The simple structured cut gives it a more elegant appearance as too much flowy fabric can look to frivolous.
  • Bottoms : Chiffon is delicate and can tear, thus pants can be a risky bet with it. Skirts, lehengas and maybe salwar ( sported by Kareena Kapoor) are a good bet.  Just remember it will still need a lining.
  • Prints : All kinds of prints whether digital or hand painted look good on the fabric. Just make sure there is spacing so one can see the actual fabric as by itself it is able to add colour and dimension. On my wishlist is a handpainted picchika saree.
          Thus, I have added chiffons as a
      yearly staple in my closet. Its.     
     dainty and elegant . So sheer and
     shimmer away.

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