Velour vs. Velvet

Attribute	Velour	Velvet
Material	Knitted fabric	Woven fabric
Texture	Soft and plush	Smooth and soft
Appearance	Has a sheen	Has a shiny surface
Usage	Commonly used for clothing and upholstery	Commonly used for clothing and home decor

Introduction

Velour and velvet are two luxurious fabrics that are often used in clothing, upholstery, and home decor. While they may look similar at first glance, there are some key differences between the two materials that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the attributes of velour and velvet and compare their qualities.

Texture

One of the main differences between velour and velvet is their texture. Velour has a plush, soft texture that is smooth to the touch. It is often described as having a velvety feel, but with a slight stretchiness that sets it apart from traditional velvet. Velvet, on the other hand, has a dense pile that gives it a rich, luxurious feel. It is soft and smooth, but lacks the stretchiness of velour.

Appearance

When it comes to appearance, velour and velvet also have distinct differences. Velour has a subtle sheen that gives it a slightly shiny appearance. This sheen is created by the way the fibers are woven together, and it can vary in intensity depending on the quality of the fabric. Velvet, on the other hand, has a more matte appearance. Its dense pile reflects light in a different way, giving it a deep, rich color that is often associated with luxury.

Durability

In terms of durability, velvet is generally considered to be more durable than velour. The dense pile of velvet helps to protect the fabric from wear and tear, making it a popular choice for upholstery and heavy-duty clothing. Velour, on the other hand, is softer and more delicate. While it is still a durable fabric, it may not hold up as well to heavy use as velvet does.

Uses

Both velour and velvet have a wide range of uses in fashion and home decor. Velour is often used for casual clothing, such as tracksuits and loungewear, as well as for upholstery and drapery. Its soft texture and stretchiness make it a comfortable choice for everyday wear. Velvet, on the other hand, is often reserved for more formal occasions. It is commonly used for evening gowns, suits, and high-end upholstery. Its luxurious appearance and rich color make it a popular choice for special events.

Care

When it comes to caring for velour and velvet, there are some differences to keep in mind. Velour is typically machine washable, making it easy to clean and maintain. However, it is important to follow the care instructions on the garment to avoid damaging the fabric. Velvet, on the other hand, is more delicate and may require special care. It is often dry clean only, as washing velvet can cause the pile to flatten and lose its luxurious feel.

Cost

Cost is another factor to consider when comparing velour and velvet. Velvet is generally more expensive than velour, due to the higher quality of the fabric and the intricate weaving process. Velvet is often associated with luxury and sophistication, which can drive up the price. Velour, on the other hand, is more affordable and accessible, making it a popular choice for everyday clothing and home decor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, velour and velvet are two luxurious fabrics with distinct qualities that set them apart. While velour is soft, stretchy, and has a subtle sheen, velvet is dense, rich, and has a matte appearance. Velvet is more durable and often used for formal occasions, while velour is more casual and easy to care for. Both fabrics have their own unique charm and can be used in a variety of ways to add a touch of luxury to any wardrobe or home decor.