Discover the character, movement and beauty of silk.
Silk is a material defined by contrast. It can be fluid or structured, luminous or understated, sheer or substantial. Understanding these differences can help you choose a fabric that not only looks beautiful, but behaves the way your design requires. The Ivory Muse Silk Guide introduces the qualities that shape a fabric, from weave and drape to lustre and transparency, and helps you explore our collection with confidence.
Mulberry silk is one of the most recognised forms of cultivated silk and is valued for its fine, long fibres, smooth feel and natural lustre.
The character of the finished fabric is influenced not only by the fibre itself, but by the way it is woven and finished.
This is why silk can take so many forms, from the fluidity of satin to the crisp structure of organza and the delicate transparency of chiffon.
Before choosing a fabric, there are a few characteristics worth understanding.
Momme, often abbreviated as mm, is a traditional measurement used to describe the weight of silk fabric.
Generally, a lower momme indicates a lighter fabric, while a higher momme indicates a heavier or more substantial fabric.
Momme is useful, but it does not tell the whole story. The weave and construction of a fabric can dramatically influence how it feels and behaves.
Always consider momme alongside the fabric’s drape, structure, transparency and finish.
Not sure where to begin? Start with the way you want your finished piece to look and move.
These fabrics are suited to designs where graceful movement and drape are central to the silhouette.
These fabrics offer greater body and are suited to designs requiring definition, volume or structure.
Consider these when softness and lightness are important to your design.
These fabrics can introduce softness, transparency and movement, particularly when layered.
Haute and Satin Organza offer the unusual combination of transparency and structure, making them particularly suited to sculptural and layered designs.
Texture can introduce depth and visual interest without relying solely on colour or print.
Start With Your Design
Think first about how you want the finished piece to behave.
These questions will help narrow your selection.
Each Ivory Muse product page should be consulted for the specific characteristics of the fabric, including its composition, width, weight or momme where applicable, finish and care information.
Fabric is tactile, and viewing silk on a screen cannot completely replicate experiencing it in person. Where available, we recommend ordering a swatch when colour, texture, weight, transparency or drape is particularly important to your project.
A swatch allows you to experience the fabric before committing to a larger quantity.
Explore the Ivory Muse collection and discover the silk for your next creation.
Explore the Collection