BATISTE
Batiste is a very fine, semi-sheer plain-weave fabric of cotton (occasionally linen) made from evenly spun fine yarn. By tradition the name is linked to Baptiste, a weaver from Cambrai, but this version has no historical basis. Light, soft to the touch and breathable, it was historically used for shirts, christening gowns, handkerchiefs, collars and lace-trimmed underlinen. In contemporary fashion it is prized for its near-weightless transparency in blouses, summer dresses and layered skirts. Its fineness demands a careful cut and gentle laundering, but it lends an air of refined simplicity.
Batiste is a very fine, semi-sheer plain-weave fabric of cotton (occasionally linen) made from evenly spun fine yarn. By tradition the name is linked to Baptiste, a weaver from Cambrai, but this version has no historical basis. Light, soft to the touch and breathable, it was historically used for shirts, christening gowns, handkerchiefs, collars and lace-trimmed underlinen. In contemporary fashion it is prized for its near-weightless transparency in blouses, summer dresses and layered skirts. Its fineness demands a careful cut and gentle laundering, but it lends an air of refined simplicity. Fine batiste is said to be named after the weaver Baptiste of Cambrai (a legend without historical basis); it is used for lingerie and blouses.
