French for “skin of silk,” peau de soie is a medium-weight, dully lustrous fabric. Although at first glance it appears to be satin, it is woven in a compact plain weave. Elizabeth Denny in her book Textile Fabrics (1928 ed.) states it is of a twill weave, and numerous sources state that it can be made in a satin weave, a less expensive alternative. Originally always silk, it can be made of manufactured fibers. The best quality peau de soie will be reversible, and most have a fine cross-ribbed reverse.
Uses: Evening gowns, bridal
See also:
Duchesse satin