Taffeta ( formerly sometimes spelled taffety ) is a crisp, smooth woven fabric made from silk. The word is Persian in origin, and means “twisted woven”. It is considered to be a “high end” fabric, suitable for use in ball gowns, wedding dresses, and in interiors for curtains or wall covering. There are two distinct types of silk taffeta : yarn – dyed and piece dyed. Piece dyed is often used in linings and is quite soft. Yarn – dyed taffeta is much stiffer and is often used in evening dresses.
Due to this delicate nature, Shantung must be washed by hand with cool or lukewarm water and mild soap very gently. Hung in the shadow to dry and Ironed while wet.
