Corduroy is a dense cotton pile fabric with characteristic lengthwise ribs (wales) formed by cut pile. The width of the wale (from fine 'needlecord' to wide) defines the material's character: fine sounds elegant, wide retro and cosy. Corduroy is warm, wear-resistant and pleasantly textured, so it is used for trousers, jackets, skirts, shirts and coats, especially for the autumn–winter season. Historically it was the fabric of workwear and student dress, and later became a symbol of an intellectual, slightly retro style (no wonder it is loved in 'dark academia'). Corduroy returns to fashion cyclically, bringing with it a feeling of warmth, nostalgia and natural nobility. It is a material with character, in which the texture of the wale creates a recognisable play of light and depth.
