velvé

Velvé is a term used to describe a family of velvet-inspired textiles distinguished by a dense, soft nap and a lustrous face that resembles traditional velvet, yet commonly produced with synthetic fibers or blends for durability and affordability. The name is used in design literature and industry catalogs to differentiate micro-velvet or pile fabrics from classic velvets.

Derived from the French tradition of velvet, velvé emerged in design discourse in the late 20th century as textile manufacturers explored economical alternatives to natural velvet. It is now used to refer to a range of fabrics that share a velvet-like hand, weight, and drape, but vary in fiber composition and finishing.

Typical velvé fabrics feature a soft hand, moderate to high drape, and a directional nap. Pile height generally ranges from 0.2 to 0.8 millimeters, and fabric weights span roughly 250 to 450 grams per square meter. Finishes may enhance gloss or flatten the surface, depending on the intended aesthetic.

Production methods include tufting or weaving a pile onto a woven or knit backing, followed by brushing, shearing, and calendering to achieve a uniform nap. Common fibers include polyester, nylon, viscose, or blends, and some variants incorporate elastane for stretch. Finishes may add stain resistance or a soft hand.

Velvé is used in upholstery, drapery, and fashion, where the look of velvet is desired with improved durability, lower cost, or easier care. It appears in furniture upholstery, consumer textiles, and accessory goods such as bags and jackets.

Care varies by fiber; synthetic velvé variants may be machine washable on delicate cycles, while fabrics with natural fibers typically require dry cleaning. Variants include velvé satin (high shine), velvé matte (low glare), velvé crushed (textured), and velvé stretch (with elastane).