The Short Answer
Mesh is a net fabric with a visible square or diamond grid — you can clearly see the individual holes. Tulle is an extremely fine net with tiny hexagonal holes — so fine that the individual threads are nearly invisible to the naked eye. Think of mesh as window screen and tulle as a wedding veil.
Fabric Properties Side by Side
| Property | Mesh | Tulle |
|---|---|---|
| Hole shape | Square or diamond grid | Hexagonal (six-sided) |
| Hole size | Visible to the eye | Very small, nearly invisible |
| Thread thickness | Clearly visible threads | Gossamer-thin, nearly invisible |
| Weight | Light to medium | Ultra-light |
| Stretch | Moderate to high | Low to none |
| Opacity | Semi-sheer to semi-opaque | Sheer to nearly transparent |
| Drape | Moderate, holds some shape | Soft, floaty, ethereal |
| Durability | Good — resistant to runs | Delicate — snags easily |
How to Tell Them Apart: The Visual Test
Hold the fabric six inches from your eyes.
- Mesh: you can see individual holes as distinct openings in a regular grid pattern. The threads forming the grid are clearly visible.
- Tulle: the fabric looks like a haze or mist. You know it's a net because light passes through, but the individual holes are so tiny you need to look very closely (or use a magnifier) to see the hexagonal pattern.
The weight test also works: tulle is feather-light and floats when dropped. Mesh falls with more purpose and has noticeable body.
Common in Lingerie
Mesh is everywhere in functional lingerie. Bra side panels use power mesh for support and stretch. Panty back panels use standard mesh for breathability without full transparency. Mesh bralettes are a category of their own — offering a sporty, modern look.
Tulle appears in decorative and romantic lingerie. It's the preferred base for embroidered bras where you want the motifs to look like they're floating on skin. Tulle overlays on bra cups create a soft, diffused look. Bridal lingerie uses tulle extensively for its ethereal quality.
Key difference in use: mesh is chosen for function (stretch, support, breathability), while tulle is chosen for aesthetics (sheerness, delicacy, romantic feel).