A rippled, water-like surface effect on fabric, commonly produced by finishing a ribbed cloth.
Moiré is a surface effect that can be produced by mechanical finishing. Ribbed cloth passes between engraved rollers under pressure, or two layers of the same fabric pass through a calender together. Some areas are crushed more than others, changing how the surface reflects light and creating the watered appearance. The effect therefore needs to be distinguished from the underlying fabric construction and fibre content. SILKNOW describes the technique on ribbed cotton, acetate, rayon and silk fabrics. A Givenchy ensemble at the V&A combines moiré silk panels with wool, showing how the finish can distinguish one part of a garment.
In job listings
You will meet this word in design, fabric development and accessories, and sometimes on a label. The finish can be affected by moisture and pressing, which is a useful fact for anyone advising on care or making alterations. Search local jobs for “textile”.
