description Piqué Overview
Piqué is a fabric characterized by a raised, textured surface produced through specialized weaving or knitting structures. Common forms include woven cotton piqué used in formal clothing and knitted piqué, whose small geometric texture is widely used for polo shirts. The material is valued in apparel because its structure adds visual texture and can hold its shape while remaining breathable, although its precise weight and performance depend on the fiber and construction.
help Piqué FAQ
What is piqué fabric most commonly used to make?
Piqué is widely recognized as the standard fabric used to manufacture classic polo shirts, utilizing its knitted form to create a breathable, textured surface. It is also frequently woven into stiff cotton to construct the collars and bibs of formal tuxedo shirts.
How is the textured surface of piqué fabric created?
The distinctive raised, geometric texture of piqué is produced through specialized weaving or knitting structures, rather than chemical treatments. In knitted piqué, a double jersey construction is typically used to create the classic waffle or honeycomb pattern on the face of the fabric.
Is piqué a good fabric for hot summer weather?
Yes, piqué is an excellent choice for warm-weather clothing because the tiny holes in its textured weave promote significant airflow and breathability. The raised pattern also sits slightly off the skin, which helps to trap air and cool the body, making it perfect for summer polo shirts.
Who popularized the use of piqué cotton in polo shirts?
French tennis player René Lacoste popularized the use of piqué cotton for athletic wear in the 1920s. He adopted the breathable, knitted fabric for his revolutionary short-sleeved tennis shirts, a design that eventually became the global standard for the modern polo shirt.
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