Drape
Definition
Drape is the way a fabric hangs and folds under its own weight, from fluid fabrics that cling and swing to crisp ones that stand away from the body.
Drape depends on fiber, yarn, weave or knit structure, weight and finish. Two fabrics of the same weight can behave completely differently: a 120 gsm viscose challis pours over your hand, while a 120 gsm cotton poplin holds a fold like paper.
A quick test in the shop: let a length of fabric hang over your hand and look at the folds. Many small, soft folds mean a fluid drape; a few wide, stiff folds mean a crisp fabric.
| Drape | Fabrics | Suits |
|---|---|---|
| Fluid | Viscose, silk, crepe, modal jersey | Slip dresses, wrap skirts, gathered blouses, kimono jackets |
| Medium | Linen, chambray, cotton lawn, double gauze | Shift dresses, wide trousers, relaxed tops |
| Crisp | Poplin, quilting cotton, denim, canvas | A-line and pencil skirts, structured tops, bags |
Match drape to silhouette. A gathered skirt in stiff fabric stands out like a lampshade; a circle skirt in a fluid fabric falls in soft folds, while in crisp fabric it flares wide. Cutting on the bias increases the drape of a woven fabric.
Sewly's 3D preview shows the silhouette and proportions of your garment, in a plain color or with your fabric's print, but it is not a physics simulation of drape, so your choice of fabric still matters. For guidance, read how to choose fabric for a pattern.