Satin is not a fiber — it's a weaving technique. Any fiber (silk, polyester, nylon, acetate) can be woven in a satin structure, which creates a long "float" of weft threads on the surface, reflecting light in a smooth sheen.
In lingerie, "satin" usually means polyester or nylon satin, less often real silk. True silk satin (charmeuse) feels different — cooler, with a slightly uneven sheen — but is visually similar enough that we don't distinguish them for the classifier.
Satin's reflective surface makes it the most photographically glamorous lingerie fabric, favored for chemises, slips, robes, and decorative trim.
How to Identify
- Glossy, reflective surface
- Smooth to the touch (no visible weave texture from a distance)
- Opaque
- Often drapes fluidly with visible highlight lines
