Lamé

Lamé refers to a type of fabric distinguished by the inclusion of metallic fibers or metallic foil woven into the material to create a shiny, reflective surface. The term comes from the French lamé, meaning decorated with metal. Modern lamé fabrics are usually made from synthetic fibers such as polyester or nylon combined with metallic yarns, which may consist of real metal or metal-coated filaments. They vary in weight and sheen; heavier lamé tends to be stiffer and more delicate, and can be prone to snagging.

Lamé is commonly used for evening wear, stage and dance costumes, and trims where a dramatic, luminous effect is desired. It is also employed in accessories and decorative textiles. The metallic content gives the fabric a distinctive drape and texture, but can limit comfort and durability for everyday wear.

Care and handling of lamé require caution. Fabrics containing metallic threads can be prone to snagging, fraying, and tarnish if not properly treated. Cleaning instructions typically favor dry cleaning or gentle hand washing with care, avoiding high heat and direct ironing on the metallic surface. When stored, lamé should be kept away from sharp objects and folded or rolled to minimize creasing and damage.

Lamé also appears outside textiles. In mathematics, Lamé refers to Gabriel Lamé, a French mathematician, with Lamé’s equation and Lamé polynomials named after him, used in problems involving elliptical coordinates and related differential equations.

Etymologically, lamé denotes a fabric woven with lamé threads, signaling its decorative metallic character.