Chiffon Sheer Fabric

Chiffon is the fabric closest to air — a fine, sheer weave that floats on any movement and layers into soft clouds of colour. It's what floaty overlays, romantic sleeves, scarves, occasion dresses and bridal layers are made of; nothing substantial can imitate what chiffon does with light.

The honest briefing: chiffon is beautiful and mischievous. It shifts while you cut (the tissue-paper sandwich trick tames it), wants the finest sharp needle and small stitches, and shows its seams — which is why French seams, which enclose everything neatly, are chiffon's traditional partner. It's an improver's fabric; a rewarding one.

Layer it over plains for colour-play, hem it narrow, and always sample — sheerness reads differently against skin than screen.