Indian Ethnic-Wear Fabric Guide: Fiber, Weave and Product Claims
Fiber and fabric are not the same thing
Silk, cotton and polyester are fiber terms. Georgette and chiffon describe fabric constructions that can be produced from different fibers. Satin describes a weave structure rather than one specific fiber. Therefore, “satin,” “georgette” or “chiffon” alone does not prove whether a garment is silk or manufactured fiber.
Common terms
| Term | What it tells you | What it does not prove |
|---|---|---|
| Silk | A fiber claim that should be supported by the product information or label | Weave, weight, geographic origin, handloom status or care method |
| Georgette | A lightweight, textured fabric category | Pure silk, breathability, exact weight or snag resistance |
| Chiffon | A light, sheer fabric category | Fiber content, opacity after lining or durability |
| Satin | A smooth-faced weave category | That the fiber is silk |
| Net | An open structure commonly used alone or as an overlay | Fiber, softness, lining or embellishment method |
What to verify on a listing
- Fiber content and whether different pieces use different fabrics
- Lining, opacity and stretch
- Embroidery, sequins or other surface work exactly as stated
- Care instructions for the complete garment
- Country of origin and the business responsible for the textile label
Care facts
Do not assign one cleaning method to every garment with the same fabric name. Construction, dye, lining and embellishment can change the appropriate care. Follow the permanent care label or the product-specific instruction. The FTC's Care Labeling Rule requires a reasonable basis for the care instructions supplied with covered garments.
Sources and review basis
Sources were checked on 2026-08-08. Brand-owned sources are identified by publisher and attributed in the article.
- Indian Textiles — Victoria and Albert Museum
- Clothing and Textiles: Labeling Guidance — U.S. Federal Trade Commission
- Care Labeling of Textile Wearing Apparel — U.S. Federal Trade Commission