What is jacquard fabric

What is jacquard fabric?

Jacquard is a fabric woven on a jacquard loom, a machine loom invented in 1804 by French textile craftsman Joseph Marie Jacquard. Fabrics woven with this loom have complex patterns woven directly into the fabric. Therefore, any fabric with a weave pattern is similar to jacquard, but technically only a fabric woven with a jacquard loom can be considered a true example of such a fabric.

Primarily valued for its decorative qualities, jacquard is also a relatively durable and heavyweight fabric, and these attributes can be accentuated by weaving jacquard with wool or other durable materials. Uncommonly used in casual wear due to its complexity and relatively high cost, textile manufacturers use jacquard more frequently for formal wear such as evening wear and men's suits. The fabric is also ideal for a variety of household items, including curtains, duvets and furniture upholstery.