What is pique fabric?
Piqué fabric, often also called pique, is a woven material distinguished by its characteristic honeycomb or diamond structure. Made from cotton, pique is breathable and has a textured surface that gives it a unique feel and appearance.
History of the Piqué fabric
The origins of pique fabric date back to the 18th century. It was considered a luxury material for the upper classes in Europe. However, its popularity grew in the 19th century when it was used for elegant summer clothing and later for tennis and golf wear.
Use of pique fabric
Piqué fabric has evolved in many ways over the years and is now used in a range of garments and accessories:
- Polo shirts: A classic in sports and leisure fashion.
- Suits: Lightweight summer suits for men.
- Dresses: Elegant summer dresses with a textured touch.
- Ties: Unique and stylish accessories.
Popularization of the pique fabric
Piqué fabric gained worldwide recognition with the introduction of the polo shirt in the 1920s and 1930s, which was often made from this material. These shirts quickly became synonymous with leisure and sportiness, thus placing pique fabric at the forefront of the fashion world.
What's the best way to work with pique fabric?
Piqué can be a joy to work with, especially if you follow these tips:
- Pre-wash: To avoid shrinkage later, wash the fabric before cutting.
- Correct needle: Use a universal needle or a needle for medium-weight fabrics to sew the pique fabric.
- Flat seams: Due to its thickness and structure, seams can add bulk. Consider whether you want to use flat seams or French seams for a clean finish.
- Moderate ironing: Iron at a medium temperature; steam can help remove wrinkles.
If you follow these tips, you will find that pique fabric is not only beautiful to look at, but also pleasant to work with, and you can create wonderful garments and accessories.


