Is Silk Chiffon Fabric Really Silk?

Megan Dominion

Yes, silk chiffon is made from silk fibres. But not all chiffon fabrcs are made from silk. So, how can you tell the difference? To answer this, we need to understand what chiffon really means and where exactly silk comes in to this smooth, luxurious material.

What is silk chiffon fabric?

Silk chiffon is a beautiful, light and airy fabric that is perfect for summer clothing. It is a popular choice for eveningwear and lingerie because of its delicate and elegant appearance.

The word “chiffon” is used to describe a sheer cloth with a simple weave; it is light and semi-transparent. Chiffon can be made from many different types of fabric, but they all share these same characteristics.

Silk chiffon is made from natural silk fibers, which gives it a unique appearance and feel. Silk has been the most popular type of fabric used to make chiffon, but recently it is more commonly made from polyester, nylon or rayon.

Chiffon fabric is typically used for special occasion clothing, such as evening gowns, wedding dresses and bridesmaids’ dresses. It can also be used for create graceful blouses, skirts and scarves. Silk chiffon fabric is very thin and delicate, so it is important to take extra care when wearing, cutting and sewing it. It is also a good idea to use a lining when working with or choosing a wearable silk chiffon item, to prevent it from tearing or snagging.

woman holding red chiffon

What is the difference between silk and silk chiffon?

Much like the difference between silk and satin; silk is the type of material or fibre used, while chiffon refers to the weave of the fabric.

Silk chiffon is different from synthetic chiffon in that silk fibre is used to make the chiffon fabric, while synthetic chiffon is made with a synthetic fibre such as polyester. Most chiffon today is made from polyester, which give the material a very similar feel to silk chiffon.

Can you tell the difference between silk and synthetic chiffon?

You can tell the difference between silk and synthetic chiffon by the way it feels; silk chiffon is softer and has a luxurious feel, while synthetic chiffon is coarser and has a slightly less smooth feel.

So, is chiffon fabric really silk?

Most chiffon materials are made from synthetic materials, so unless the label specifically states that the chiffon fabric is made from silk, then no, your garment or material is not likely to be real silk and is more likely made from polyester. If the label states ‘silk chiffon’ then yes – silk chiffon is real silk!

What is the best way to take care of a silk chiffon garment?

The best way to take care of a silk chiffon garment is to hand wash it in cool water with a mild detergent. You can also have it dry cleaned, but be sure to tell the dry cleaner that it is made of silk chiffon.

Silk chiffon is a delicate fabric, so it is important to take care when washing it. Always check the care label before washing, to make sure you are using the correct temperature and method.

If the care label says “dry clean only”, then you should take it to the dry cleaner. If the label says “hand wash”, then you can wash it gently by hand.

Did you know that silk has a wide range of benefits for both your skin and hair?

silk chiffon top

Megan Dominion

Megan Dominion is SILKUP's Managing Editor. She's been down both the curly hair and skincare rabbit holes many times and loves that there's always something new to learn; a new science, method, product or personal experience.