Crepe de Chine
Crepe de Chine
A lightweight, flowing crepe fabric with a slightly pebbly texture and beautiful drape, traditionally made from silk.
What Is Crepe de Chine?
Crepe de Chine (French for "crepe of China") is a lightweight plain-weave fabric distinguished by its fine, pebbly surface texture and fluid drape. It is made by alternating S-twist and Z-twist yarns in the weft (crosswise threads), which creates the characteristic micro-crinkle when the fabric is finished. Originally produced exclusively from silk in China, modern crepe de chine is widely available in polyester and silk-polyester blends that retain the drape and texture at a lower price point.
Crepe de chine occupies a sweet spot between charmeuse and chiffon in the lingerie fabric spectrum. It has more body than chiffon (so it does not fly away with every breeze) but is lighter and less shiny than charmeuse. The subtle surface texture gives it a refined, matte appearance that reads as quietly expensive. In lingerie, it is used for slips, camisoles, and robes where the goal is understated elegance rather than high-gloss drama.
To assess quality, rub the fabric between your fingers -- it should feel dry and slightly grainy, never slick or plastic-like. The pebbly texture should be uniform, not patchy. Hold it to the light: crepe de chine is semi-opaque (not sheer like chiffon, not fully opaque like satin). The drape should be smooth and column-like, falling straight down without flaring or clinging.
Sinderella uses crepe de chine weight fabrics in select slips and camisoles where the matte, textured finish creates an effortlessly refined look.
How to Wear & Style
A crepe de chine slip in a neutral tone (champagne, blush, or soft grey) makes an ideal everyday-to-evening piece. The matte surface pairs beautifully with gold jewellery without competing for attention. As outerwear, tuck a crepe de chine camisole into tailored trousers for a polished daytime look. For gifting, crepe de chine reads as luxurious without being flashy -- a safe choice for someone with classic taste. Wash on cold, hang dry, and steam if needed -- the pebbled texture naturally hides minor wrinkles.
Lingerie Featuring Crepe de Chine
Lightweight, matte-finish slips and camisoles with the signature pebbly drape of crepe de chine.
Browse BabydollsFrequently Asked Questions
What is crepe de chine?
A lightweight, flowing crepe fabric with a slightly pebbly texture and beautiful drape, traditionally made from silk.
How is crepe de chine different from charmeuse?
Both are lightweight and fluid, but they differ in surface finish. Charmeuse has a high-gloss, reflective front and matte back. Crepe de chine has a subtle, matte-to-low-lustre finish on both sides with a fine pebbly texture. Charmeuse catches more light and looks shinier; crepe de chine has a quieter, more understated elegance.
Is polyester crepe de chine as good as silk?
Polyester versions replicate the drape and texture convincingly and are far easier to care for. Silk crepe de chine breathes better, feels cooler against skin, and has a more luxurious hand-feel, but it requires hand washing and costs significantly more. For lingerie, polyester crepe de chine offers excellent performance at a fraction of the price.