CORDUROY
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.
Compare “Corduroy” with another term
Meaning, origins and distinction — side by side.
Distinction
Denim is a sturdy cotton twill with a distinctive diagonal ribbing, classically dyed indigo in the warp while the weft stays pale, and it is the fabric of jeans. Corduroy is woven with raised lengthwise ridges of cut pile, soft and warm to the touch, with a matte velvety surface. Denim is smooth, dense and cooler, whereas corduroy is textured, plush and more wintery; both began as workwear fabrics that became casual-wardrobe staples.
