What is velour vs velvet?

Szoneier Bag Manufacturing
3 min readAug 6, 2024

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Velour and velvet are both luxurious fabrics, but they have distinct characteristics and uses. Here’s a detailed comparison:

1. Definition

  • Velvet:
  • Velvet is a type of woven fabric characterized by a soft, plush texture. It has a dense pile made from cut threads, creating a rich, luxurious feel. Velvet can be made from various fibers, including silk, cotton, polyester, or a blend of these.
  • Velour:
  • Velour is a knitted fabric that resembles velvet but is typically made from cotton or polyester. It has a soft, plush texture similar to velvet but is usually less dense. Velour is stretchier due to its knitted construction, making it more flexible and comfortable for certain applications.

2. Texture and Appearance

  • Velvet:
  • The surface of velvet has a distinctive sheen and a soft, rich pile that reflects light beautifully. Velvet’s appearance can vary depending on the fiber used and the finishing process, giving it a luxurious look.
  • Velour:
  • Velour has a slightly softer texture than velvet and a more matte finish. The pile is not as deep or dense, which gives it a plush but less opulent appearance compared to traditional velvet.

3. Construction

  • Velvet:
  • Velvet is woven, which involves creating two layers of fabric that are cut apart to create the soft pile. This weaving process can be more labor-intensive, contributing to its higher cost.
  • Velour:
  • Velour is knitted, which makes it easier and less expensive to produce than velvet. The knitted construction allows for more stretch, making velour a popular choice for clothing and upholstery that require flexibility.

4. Durability

  • Velvet:
  • Velvet is generally durable, especially when made from synthetic fibers like polyester. However, it can be more susceptible to crushing and marks, especially if not cared for properly.
  • Velour:
  • Velour is also durable but may not be as resilient as velvet in terms of maintaining its shape. Its stretchiness allows it to withstand movement, making it suitable for active wear.

5. Uses

  • Velvet:
  • Commonly used in high-end clothing (evening gowns, jackets), upholstery (furniture, curtains), and accessories (bags, shoes). Velvet is often chosen for its luxurious appearance and feel.
  • Velour:
  • Frequently used in casual clothing (tracksuits, loungewear), upholstery (cushions, sofas), and home textiles (throws, blankets). Velour’s stretch and comfort make it a popular choice for active and comfortable garments.

6. Care and Maintenance

  • Velvet:
  • Requires careful cleaning, often needing dry cleaning or gentle hand washing. It can be sensitive to heat and should not be ironed directly.
  • Velour:
  • Typically easier to care for than velvet. Velour items can often be machine washed, but it’s still best to check the care label for specific instructions.

Conclusion

In summary, while both velour and velvet are plush fabrics with a luxurious feel, they differ in their construction, texture, durability, and typical uses. Velvet is woven and denser, offering a more opulent look, while velour is knitted and stretchier, making it more versatile for everyday wear and casual applications.

​If you want to know more about velour and velvet, please follow us or visit our official website(szoneier.com). If you have any order needs and questions, feel free to leave us a message or send us an email(info@szoneier.com),WhatsApp(WeChat) 8613823134897, Thank you!

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Szoneier Bag Manufacturing

I'm Eric , a 17-year expert in fabric bag design and production. Skilled in various fabrics and styles, I share deep insights into the bag industry on Medium.