Velour, a plush knitted fabric often compared to velvet, has a rich history and a versatile range of uses that span centuries and economic classes. Originating in France, this soft and stretchy textile has evolved from a practical, cost-effective material for home furnishings to a popular choice for activewear and loungewear. Its unique properties, including its stretchiness and soft feel, have made it a favored fabric for comfort and freedom of movement,
while its historical affordability ensured its widespread adoption across various societal strata.
Origins and Early Applications
The exact origins of velour in France remain somewhat unclear regarding its first creator. However, historical records indicate its presence in England as early as the late 16th century. A 1591 entry in the accounts of Nathaniel Bacon of Stiffkey, Norfolk, details the purchase of "half a yard of vellewre to make pomelles for the sydsaddelles" for two shillings. This specific mention distinguishes "vellewre" from "vellet" (velvet), which also appears elsewhere in Bacon's accounts, suggesting velour was recognized as a distinct material even then.
Historically, velour was significantly cheaper to produce than velvet. This cost-effectiveness made it a practical choice for items that would endure considerable wear and tear, particularly in home furnishings and decor. Its durability, combined with its plush appearance, offered an accessible alternative to the more luxurious velvet, allowing a broader segment of the population to enjoy similar aesthetics without the prohibitive expense.
Material Composition and Distinctive Qualities
Velour is primarily characterized as a knitted fabric, a key feature that distinguishes it from woven textiles like velvet and velveteen. This knitted construction is what gives velour its inherent stretchiness, providing flexibility and comfort that woven fabrics typically lack. It can be manufactured from various fibers, including polyester, spandex, cotton, or blends of cotton and polyester, allowing for different textures and performance characteristics.
Beyond its stretch, velour is known for its softness and medium-length pile. This pile is generally shorter than that of velvet but longer than velveteen, contributing to its distinctive plush feel. These qualities make velour particularly suitable for clothing that requires ease of movement, such as activewear, and for comfortable garments like loungewear. The combination of softness, stretch, and a pleasant tactile surface has cemented velour's place as a go-to fabric for comfort-oriented apparel.
Modern Popularity and Economic Accessibility
Velour experienced a significant surge in popularity in the 1970s, largely driven by emerging clothing trends, most notably athleisure tracksuits. This era embraced comfortable yet stylish clothing, and velour, with its soft feel and relaxed drape, perfectly fit the aesthetic. The fabric became synonymous with casual chic, offering a blend of athletic functionality and everyday comfort that resonated with the fashion sensibilities of the time.
In contemporary manufacturing, while modern techniques have made velvet more affordable for home furnishings, velour continues to maintain its position as an economically accessible fabric. Its relatively low cost ensures that it remains available to people across all economic classes, continuing its legacy as a versatile and widely used textile. From its early utility in saddlery to its iconic status in 20th-century fashion, velour has consistently adapted, proving its enduring appeal and practicality.
