Know your fabric

Fabric guide

For summer, choose lawn; for winter, khaddar or velvet; for weddings and festive evenings, chiffon, organza, raw silk or jacquard; cambric works all year. Below: how each fabric feels, when to wear it, and how to look after it.

Lawn

Summer

Fine, light, breathable cotton. The everyday fabric of a Pakistani summer, crisp when new and softer with every wash.

Care: Cold wash, dry in shade, iron while slightly damp.

Chiffon

Festive

Sheer, floaty and light. Used for dupattas and formal shirts; drapes beautifully and takes embroidery well.

Care: Dry clean, or hand wash cold. Iron on low through a cloth.

Organza

Festive

Crisp, sheer and structured, with a subtle sheen. Holds its shape for sleeves, borders and statement dupattas.

Care: Dry clean only. Steam rather than iron.

Khaddar

Winter

Thick, textured hand-loomed cotton. Warm without being heavy, with a matte, earthy finish.

Care: Cold wash inside out. Iron on medium.

Raw silk

Formal

Slubbed silk with a rich, uneven texture and soft lustre. Made for weddings and evenings.

Care: Dry clean only.

Cambric

Year-round

Smooth, tightly woven cotton, slightly heavier than lawn. Ideal for ready-to-wear shirts.

Care: Machine wash cold, iron on medium.

Jacquard

Festive

Patterns woven into the fabric itself rather than printed, giving depth and a self-coloured design.

Care: Dry clean recommended.

Velvet

Winter

Dense, soft pile with deep colour. Used for shawls and winter formals.

Care: Dry clean only. Steam from the reverse.