The lining fabric of a dress is one of the most critical components of the garment. It is the fabric that comes in contact with the wearer's body and determines how the dress will contour her features. Since satin is a fluid fabric that moves easily, the lining of a satin dress should have the same qualities. It should also lie smooth and flat against the body, so the dress as a whole follows the shape of the wearer flawlessly.
Synthetic Fabrics
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Many synthetics, including rayon and polyesters, are light and fluid. They also come in a wide array of colors so you can match the lining and satin for maximum opacity and coverage. In addition, synthetic fabrics are usually inexpensive compared to other fabric options. On the downside, synthetic fabrics may not sew into the dress as well as higher quality, natural fibers. They are also more likely to cause friction or static in the garment than finer fabrics. In the hands of a skilled sewer, however, these fabrics are perfectly suitable for lining a satin dress.
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Cotton
Finely woven cottons are also appropriate for lining satin dresses. Cotton with a tight weave will have a smooth texture and is lightweight enough to move with the satin if sewn in properly. Another benefit is that cottons are available in every imaginable color, so it will be easy to match a cotton lining to the dress color for maximum opacity. No matter how finely woven the cotton is, however, it will never feel as smooth as satin. Despite this, many ladies feel perfectly comfortable in a satin dress with a cotton lining.
Satin
Satin is an excellent choice for lining a satin dress. It is available in a variety of weights, which vary depending on the quality of the product and the consistency of the fibers woven into the fabric. If the dress is a heavy satin, a lighter satin may work well as a lining. The chief advantage of lining satin with satin is that a satin lining ensures fluidity of movement and limited friction between the lining and dress fabric.
Other Silks
Satin is a variation of silk. Other silk products, therefore, are a surefire winner when lining a satin dress. While many dressmakers try to save money by choosing an inexpensive lining fabric (since it will not be visible when the dress is worn), choosing a higher-grade product is a sound investment if high-quality materials are used for the rest of the dress. If you have already invested in runway-caliber satin, why skimp on any other aspect of the garment? Habotai, crepe, and tricot are silk fabrics that make excellent dress linings.