When it comes to dressmaking, choosing the right lining fabric is just as important as selecting the perfect outer fabric. A good lining enhances comfort, drape, and the overall finish of a garment. If you’re looking for a natural, breathable alternative to polyester linings, voile fabric is an excellent choice. In this blog, we’ll explore why voile is a great option for lining summer dresses, skirts, and blouses.
What is Voile Fabric?
Voile is a lightweight, semi-sheer fabric with a plain, open weave that allows air to circulate, making it perfect for lining warm-weather garments. Typically made from cotton or cotton blends, voile has a soft, smooth texture and a fluid drape. Unlike stiffer cotton fabrics, voile is more supple and less prone to wrinkling, making it an ideal lining choice.
Why Use Voile as a Dress Lining?
Voile fabric offers several benefits when used as a lining for dresses and skirts, particularly in hot weather. Here’s why it’s a top choice for dressmakers:
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A Natural Alternative to Polyester Linings: Polyester linings can trap heat and feel uncomfortable in warm weather. Voile, being made from natural fibres, is far more breathable and comfortable against the skin. Especially if you are using a natural fibre for the outer layer as it is best to try and match a natural lining with a natural outer fabric.
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Lightweight and Breathable: Voile’s open weave ensures good air circulation, keeping you cool even on the hottest days. It’s a fantastic choice for summer garments, particularly your holiday wardrobe.
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Soft with a Good Drape: Unlike some other natural lining fabrics, voile has a gentle drape that complements the shape of the outer garment. It has more drape than cotton lawn, for example, making it a better option for lining floaty dresses and skirts.
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Reduces Transparency: If you’re working with a sheer outer fabric, voile provides just enough coverage to prevent see-through issues while maintaining the lightness of the garment.
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Easy to Sew: As it is a cotton, voile is easy to work with. Voile is smooth and stable, making it relatively easy to work with compared to slippery synthetic linings.
Matching Your Lining to Your Outer Fabric
To achieve the best results, always try to match your lining fabric composition as closely as possible to your outer fabric composition. So, if you’re sewing a cotton or linen dress, a cotton voile lining will ensure the fabric behaves similarly. This helps maintain the garment’s structure and drape while keeping it breathable and comfortable.
Voile as a Standalone Fabric
Not only is voile a great lining fabric, but it can also be used on its own for summer garments. A voile dress or shirt will feel lightweight and airy—perfect for hot days when you want to wear something cool and comfortable. But do check the transparency in both daylight and artificial light in case it is more see-through than you are comfortable with!
Egyptian Cotton Voile or Indian Cotton Voile?
Egyptian cotton voile is better quality than Indian cotton voile and although both can be used as a natural dress lining, Egyptian cotton is finer and feels nicer against the skin. It is therefore better suited as an outer summer fabric whereas Indian cotton is perfect for lining. We stock both at Fabrics Galore to offer our customers a choice at different price points including cream, white, navy and black as well as several popular summer colours.
Final Thoughts on Voile
If you’re looking for a natural, lightweight lining fabric that enhances comfort and drape, voile is an excellent choice. Whether you’re lining a sheer dress or simply want a breathable alternative to synthetic linings, voile offers versatility, ease of use, and a beautiful finish. Give it a try in your next dressmaking project and enjoy the benefits of this wonderful fabric. Browse Fabrics Galore’s range of voile fabrics.
