Jersey fabric
A knit: cotton, viscose, wool or synthetics. Knitted, not woven: one side smooth (rows of V's), the other loopy – so it stretches.
How it feels
Soft, stretchy, drapey.
Season: Summer and hot days – it keeps you cool.
What it's used for
T-shirts, dresses, sportswear.
T-shirts, dresses and travel trousers – comfortable and crease-free.
Pros
- Comfortable, doesn't crease
Cons
- Cotton jersey shrinks and the edges curl
Care: a typical label
Always follow your own garment's label – blends and finishes change the care.
How it's constructed
Knit. One yarn interlocked in loops – so the fabric stretches sideways and creases less, but can stretch out.
A little history
Named after the island of Jersey, where it was knitted into fishermen's sweaters. Coco Chanel first used it for womenswear in 1916.
How to recognise it
Read the surface: diagonal lines mean twill, shiny and slippery means satin, a raised nap means pile, sideways stretch means a knit.
Sustainability
A weave's footprint depends on the fibre it's made from – check the composition on the label.
When buying
The same weave behaves differently in different fibres: silk and polyester satin look alike, but only silk breathes. Always read the composition.
Frequently asked
01What is jersey?
A knit: cotton, viscose, wool or synthetics. Knitted, not woven: one side smooth (rows of V's), the other loopy – so it stretches.
02Is jersey a natural fabric?
It's a weave or knit – whether it's natural depends on the fibre it's made from.
03Does jersey shrink?
Yes – jersey shrinks in hot water and the dryer, especially as a knit. Wash at 30 °C and dry without heat.
04Is jersey breathable?
Yes: jersey lets air through and absorbs moisture – cool in the heat.