Fabric

Satin vs. Silk: What’s the Difference?

Aug 06, 2024 / Post by Ishita Bhatt in

It’s no wonder that we often get asked if satin and silk are the same thing. The answer is simple. No, they aren’t.

While silk is a natural fiber produced by the busy silkworm, satin is a woven fiber and NOT actually a type of fiber. Think of satin as the way a fabric is woven. It can be made from materials like polyester, nylon, or yes, even silk!

Some satin bridesmaid dresses may not be made from real silk and this in no way diminishes the breathtaking appearance of the dresses! Real silk is generally costly compared to synthetic satin materials and is also very sensitive to be worked on.

So, when picking out your bridesmaid dresses, it is important to know the difference between satin and silk. Let’s get started.

What Is Satin?

Luxurious and shiny, satin is one of the most elegant choices for bridesmaid dresses. The term "satin" describes the finish of the dress rather than the material itself. The fabric's durability and weight come from its high thread count, typically created from a blend of various fibers. Thankfully, this durability doesn’t mean the dress will be heavy, as some satin fabrics are quite light.

What Is Satin Made of?

Satin can be made from various raw materials like:

Polyester
Nylon
Rayon
Acetate
Silk
Cotton
Blendes

Although the finest type of satin is the silk satin some bridesmaids use polyester and nylon satins because they are cheaper and relatively easy to maintain.

Types of Satin Weave

Satin is made from long and continuous strands. The sort of weave used is usually determined by the length of the strands.

Four harness satin weave.
Five harness satin weave.
Eight harness satin weave.

8 Common Types of Satin

The type of weave and the usage of various fibers can alter the composition of satin. This affects the properties of the fabric and any gown composed of that specific variety of satin.

Duchess Satin: This is typically less glossy and heavier than normal satin. It’s perfect for solid color dying.
Baronet Satin: It is incredibly glossy and combines Rayon Warp threads with Cotton Warp threads.
Antique Satin: It is made up of weft threads that are made up of threads irregularly spun.
Crepe Back Satin: It is a dual-finished reversible material with a typical satin sheen on one side and a crepe texture on the other.
Charmeuse: This is a lightweight fabric that drapes quite easily.
Messaline: Mainly woven from rayon or silk, Messaline sati is lightweight and has a high gloss finish.
Polysatin: Polysatin is a type of satin made from polyester fibers. It replicates the look of silk satin but at a more affordable price point. While it offers a shiny, smooth finish similar to silk satin, it may not be as breathable or luxurious as natural fibers.
Slipper Satin: This is a medium-weight fabric that is often used for creating elegant evening wear and accessories.

Pros of Satin

First of all, satin offers a rather elegant appearance and feel to it. This is usually the primary reason for selecting it for summer weddings and other similar events. It is also very versatile as illustrated by the various types of satin and sateen discussed above.

Luxury yet affordable: Satin bridesmaid dresses from synthetic fibers grab the sleek finished and non-expensive cost.
Durable: Also, it can prove to be quite durable, the tightness of the fabric enhances the strength of the weave as compared to other non-ribbed ones.
Drapable: You don’t have to worry about your satin bridesmaid dress unwrapping.
Photogenic: One more great advantage is that satin can be easily printed on and the print will come out bright and clear. This results in a soft and comfortable feel of the material while having a pattern displayed on the surface.

Cons of Satin

Well, satin isn’t without its set of drawbacks and these are undesirable when it comes to bridesmaid dresses.

Easy to snug: Satin is rather slippery and can easily get caught on something or even get pulled, so one must be very gentle when it comes to contact with any rough surface or accessories. It may also have watermarks, so look for the happy tears!
Wrinkle easily: The thin satin does wrinkle easily, the thick ones and synthetic satin bridesmaid dresses are more resistant to wrinkles. While it is basically wrinkle-free, it can be easily creased, that is why, remember to hang your dress properly.
Not so breathable: Furthermore, synthetic satin is not as breathable as other fabrics and can, therefore, be uncomfortable in very hot weather.

What Is Silk?

Silk is a natural protein fiber that is produced by the silkworm, particularly the Bombyx mori species. The method of harvesting silk has been known for many centuries and is believed to have originated in China as far back as 5,000 years ago. They are small worms that produce cocoons and out of which we have the beautiful and soft silk used in making clothes.

Different kinds of silks are mulberry, tussah, eri, and muga. All the types are distinguishable by certain characteristics, but the most prevalent and the highest quality is mulberry silk.

So, what makes Silk a good choice for bridesmaid dresses? The answer is simple. Its luxurious look, elegant drape and smooth feel makes it one of the best. Silk is more breathable and suitable for different climates too.

Pros of Silk

Ok, now let's delve into the advantages of silk.

Delicate and soft: Provides sophisticated, unmatched softness and luxury.
Light and comfortable: Ideal for hot weather due to its lightweight and breathable nature.
Elegant draping: Offers a smooth drape and sophisticated sheen that enhances any garment.
Hypoallergenic: Gentle on sensitive skin, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

Cons of Silk

As with every material, there are disadvantages of wearing silk especially when it comes to bridesmaid dresses.

Delicate fabric: Can easily tear or get caught; requires gentle handling.
Higher cost: Generally more expensive than most other fabrics, which can be a concern for tight budgets.
Stain visibility: Tends to highlight water and sweat stains, making it less suitable for hot or highly emotional events.

Differences between Satin and Silk Bridesmaid Dresses

Fabric Composition and Texture

Bridesmaid dresses that are made using Satin are usually thicker and the fibre provides a structured feel. Silk dresses on the other hand are lightweight and have an elegant drape.

Comfort & Breathability

Satin dresses have a thicker weave, therefore, they are suitable mostly for cooler climates or indoor weddings. However, an added benefit to silk is that this fabric also acts as an insulator. It has the ability to draw heat away from you when it is hot and it can keep you warm in cold temperatures.

Cost

Producing silk is labor intensive! It takes about twenty-five hundred silkworms to spin a pound of raw silk which is barely over one yard of fabric! This is why Silk is much more expensive than satin.

Care

One has to be very careful when handling silk so as to preserve its quality. Hand washing or dry cleaning is usually the way to go. Satin is also not very easy to work with either. It tends to catch on things and is rather best to be dry-cleaned. Dry cleaning is often the best option for both fabrics to keep them in the best condition.

Satin vs. Silk: Which Is Better for Bridesmaid Dresses?

People often choose satin fabric for their dresses because of its low price but most of it is made from polyester or nylon. Since satin is a synthetic manmade fabric, your satin bridesmaid dress wouldn’t let your skin breathe, especially in hot climates. This lack of breathability can lead to discomfort and excessive sweating, which is far from ideal on such a special day.

Silk on the other hand is a 100% natural fabric. Unlike satin, your silk bridesmaid dress will help regulate your body temperature, keeping you cool in the heat and warm in cooler conditions.

I’ve seen so many brides light up when they realize how much more comfortable and luxurious silk can feel. It’s those little details, like choosing the right fabric, that make a big difference in creating a perfect, unforgettable day.

Satin Bridesmaid Dresses Are Best for:

Formal, evening, or black-tie weddings where a structured and polished look is desired.
Ideal for achieving a vibrant, bold appearance with rich colors and glossy finishes.
Suitable for cooler climates or indoor venues.

Silk Bridesmaid Dresses Are Best for:

Perfect for a high-end, exclusive feel with a soft, flowing silhouette feel that adds a touch of elegance.
Outdoor or summer weddings due to its breathability and comfort.
Ideal for vintage, rustic, or romantic-themed weddings, offering a timeless look.

In a Nutshell

Satin is a weave, while silk is a fiber from silkworms and is also one of the raw materials of satin. Silk is more breathable and have both glossy sides, but costs more due to its totally natural sources. Polyester satin is often affordable and seems like silky luster, explaining why satin bridesmaid dresses are so popular. Bed sheets, lingerie, pajamas, dresses… whatever you are struggling on for satin or silk, choose the one works better for you!

Satin vs. Silk FAQs

Is satin polyester?

No, satin is not a type of fiber. It is a weave pattern that can be made from different fibers and one of these fibers is polyester. People often confuse satin with sateen, the latter is also a kind of weave.

Is satin a cheap version of silk?

Not exactly. Satin is cheaper than silk since it can be made from polyester but it’s not necessarily a cheap silk version.

Is satin fake silk?

No, satin is not fake silk, it is a type of weave. It is a different type of fabric that can be produced using numerous materials, yet silk is natural.