Twill Vs Crepe: Find Out What You Need To Know

Twill and crepe are two distinct types of textiles with unique characteristics that set them apart in the world of fashion and design. Twill’s hallmark diagonal parallel ribs create a sturdy and structured texture, making it a popular choice for durable everyday wear like denim and workwear.

In contrast, crepe’s exquisite crinkle-textured surface exudes elegance and grace, elevating garments to a level of sophistication suited for formal occasions and upscale attire.

This article delves into the 20 key differences between twill and crepe, covering aspects such as weave structure, appearance, drape, fabric weight, versatility, and more, offering insights into their diverse applications and inherent allure.

Key Differences Between Twill and Crepe

Weave Structure

• Twill: Twill weave structure features diagonal parallel ribs formed by the weft yarn passing over one or more warp yarns before going under one or more warp yarns. This creates a distinctive diagonal pattern on the fabric’s surface. Twill fabrics are renowned for their durability, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications like denim, workwear, and upholstery. The diagonal lines can vary in angle, leading to different types of twills such as herringbone or twill denim.
• Crepe: Unlike twill, crepe is not defined by a specific weave structure, but rather by its crinkle-textured surface. Crepe fabrics can be made using different types of weaves, including plain, twill, or satin, but they undergo a special finishing process to achieve the characteristic crinkled texture. Crepe fabrics are known for their elegant drape and are popularly used in wedding dresses, evening gowns, and other formal wear due to their graceful flow and luxurious appearance.

Appearance

• Twill: Twill fabrics are characterized by their unique appearance of diagonal parallel ribs or lines on the surface. The weave structure creates a distinctive texture that sets it apart from other types of textiles. The diagonal pattern can vary in angle, resulting in different visual effects. Common twill variations include herringbone and twill denim. Twill fabrics have a smooth and even surface with visible diagonal lines, giving them a sturdy and structured look.
• Crepe: Unlike twill, crepe is not defined by its weave structure but rather by its crinkled or pebbled texture. Crepe fabrics can be made using various weave types, including plain, twill, or satin. However, what distinguishes crepe is a special finishing process that produces the characteristic rippled appearance. The texture of crepe creates an elegant and luxurious look with a graceful flow, making it highly desirable for formal and upscale garments.

Drape

• Twill: Twill fabrics generally have a stiffer and less flowing drape compared to crepe. The diagonal rib pattern contributes to the fabric’s structure and stability, which may result in garments holding their shape and standing away from the body to some extent. While this quality is advantageous for certain applications like workwear and upholstery, it may not provide the fluid and graceful drape desired for formal or draping dresses.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics are renowned for their exceptional drape. The crinkle-textured surface allows crepe garments to flow and cascade beautifully around the body. The soft and flowing nature of crepe creates a flattering silhouette and adds an elegant touch to various clothing items. Crepe is favored for formal wear like wedding dresses, evening gowns, skirts, and blouses due to its ability to drape and move gracefully with the wearer.

Fabric Weight

• Twill: Twill fabrics can vary in weight, ranging from medium to heavy-weight. The weave structure, yarn thickness, and thread count contribute to the fabric’s overall weight. Heavier twill fabrics are commonly used in heavy-duty applications like denim for jeans and workwear, providing durability and resilience.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics, on the other hand, are generally lightweight. The crinkle texture is achieved without significantly adding to the fabric’s weight. This lightweight quality makes crepe an ideal choice for garments that require a flowing and airy feel, enhancing the drape and comfort of the clothing.

Durability

• Twill: Twill fabrics are well-regarded for their durability and strength. The diagonal rib pattern provides reinforcement, making twill resistant to wear and tear. The sturdy nature of twill makes it a reliable choice for rugged applications, and it often outlasts fabrics with other weave structures.
• Crepe: While crepe fabrics offer luxurious drape and appearance, they are generally less durable compared to twill. The delicate crinkled texture may be susceptible to snagging or fraying, especially in lightweight crepe varieties. Crepe garments may require extra care to maintain their pristine condition over time.

Common Uses

• Twill: Twill fabrics find a wide range of applications due to their versatility and durability. They are commonly used in the production of denim jeans, workwear, chinos, and upholstery. The sturdy nature of twill makes it suitable for heavy-duty and everyday wear, as well as for industrial and functional purposes.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics are often associated with elegant and formal attire. They are commonly used in the creation of luxurious garments like wedding dresses, evening gowns, skirts, blouses, and suits. Crepe’s flowing drape and graceful texture make it a preferred choice for clothing items requiring a touch of sophistication and refinement.

Formality

• Twill: Twill fabrics can be used for both casual and formal wear. While they are commonly seen in everyday clothing like jeans and chinos, certain twill variations, such as herringbone, can be incorporated into more formal outfits. However, twill is not as inherently associated with formality as crepe.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics are inherently associated with formal and upscale attire. Their elegant appearance and graceful drape make them a preferred choice for weddings, red carpet events, and other formal occasions. Crepe’s luxurious texture elevates the overall look and feel of garments, adding a sense of sophistication and refinement.

Fabric Type

• Twill: Twill fabrics can be made from various fibers, including natural materials like cotton, wool, silk, and linen, as well as synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon. The weave structure remains the defining feature of twill fabrics, regardless of the specific fiber used.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics can be made from both natural and synthetic fibers. Commonly, crepe is crafted from materials such as silk, polyester, rayon, or a blend of these fibers. The crinkle texture is achieved through a finishing process that can be applied to different fabric types, resulting in various crepe varieties, such as crepe de chine or georgette.

Drapability

• Twill: Twill fabrics typically have a stiffer and less flowing drape. The diagonal rib pattern provides structure to the fabric, which may result in garments holding their shape and standing away from the body to some extent. This quality is beneficial for certain applications but may not be ideal for achieving a soft and draped look.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics are renowned for their exceptional drapability. The crinkle-textured surface allows crepe garments to drape and flow gracefully around the body. The soft and flowing nature of crepe creates a flattering silhouette and adds an elegant touch to various clothing items, making it a popular choice for formal wear and draping dresses.

Texture

• Twill: Twill fabrics have a smooth surface with visible diagonal lines, creating a sturdy and structured texture. While the diagonal pattern adds visual interest, it lacks the distinctive crinkle texture of crepe.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics are defined by their crinkled or pebbled texture, which sets them apart from other textiles. The unique texture adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to crepe garments, making them highly desirable for formal and elegant clothing.

Manufacturing

• Twill: Twill fabrics are manufactured using a specific weaving technique known as the twill weave. During the weaving process, the weft yarn passes over one or more warp yarns before going under one or more warp yarns, creating the characteristic diagonal pattern. Twill can be made on various types of looms, including conventional shuttle looms and modern projectile or air-jet looms.
• Crepe: The manufacturing process of crepe involves more than just the weaving technique. Crepe fabrics can be created from different weave structures, such as plain, twill, or satin. The crinkle or pebbled texture, which defines crepe, is achieved through a special finishing process. This process typically involves using twisted yarns and applying heat or chemical treatments to create the desired crinkled surface.

Wrinkling

• Twill: Twill fabrics tend to wrinkle less easily compared to crepe due to their sturdier and structured texture. While some wrinkling may occur with wear and use, twill garments generally maintain a neater appearance, especially in heavy-weight twill varieties.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics may have a tendency to wrinkle, particularly in lightweight crepe varieties. The delicate and flowy nature of crepe can result in creases and wrinkles forming during wear or storage. Crepe garments may require steaming or ironing to smooth out wrinkles and restore their pristine appearance.

Versatility

• Twill: Twill fabrics are highly versatile and find application in a wide range of clothing and other textile products. From casual wear like jeans and chinos to formal attire like blazers and skirts, twill’s adaptability makes it a popular choice in various fashion contexts. It is also used in industrial and utilitarian products like workwear, uniforms, and upholstery.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics are primarily associated with formal and upscale attire. While they excel in creating elegant and graceful garments for special occasions, their use is more limited compared to twill. Crepe’s distinct texture and drape make it less versatile for everyday and industrial applications.

Breathability

• Twill: Twill fabrics can offer good breathability, especially when made from natural fibers like cotton or linen. The weave structure allows for air circulation, making twill garments comfortable to wear in various weather conditions.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics often provide excellent breathability, particularly when made from natural fibers like silk or rayon. The lightweight and airy nature of crepe, combined with its textured surface, allows for increased airflow, keeping the wearer cool and comfortable.

Comfort

• Twill: Twill fabrics are generally comfortable to wear due to their sturdiness and durability. They provide a sense of stability and structure, making them suitable for everyday clothing and workwear. However, the level of comfort may vary depending on the specific fiber content and weave pattern used.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics offer a comfortable and soft feel on the skin, making them ideal for formal and elegant attire. The flowing drape and lightweight texture of crepe contribute to a comfortable wearing experience, especially for occasions that require extended periods of dress.

Cost

• Twill: The cost of twill fabrics can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of fiber used, the thread count, and the overall quality of the fabric. Twill fabrics made from natural fibers like cotton or wool are generally more affordable, while those made from luxury fibers like silk or specialty blends can be more expensive. In general, twill is available at a range of price points to suit different budgets.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics tend to be more expensive compared to twill due to the additional manufacturing processes involved in achieving the crinkle texture. The finishing techniques and use of finer fibers, such as silk, contribute to the higher cost of crepe fabrics. As a result, crepe garments are often considered more luxurious and are associated with higher-end fashion, making them a premium choice.

Texture Types

• Twill: Twill fabrics have a distinctive texture characterized by diagonal parallel ribs. While twill variations like herringbone or twill denim offer some diversity, the overall texture remains consistent with the diagonal pattern. The focus in twill is more on the weave structure rather than the texture itself.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics come in various texture types due to the diverse range of weave structures that can undergo the crinkle finishing process. Some common crepe varieties include crepe de chine, crepe georgette, and Moroccan crepe. Each type has its unique texture and drape, offering versatility in creating different looks and styles.

Pattern Versatility

• Twill: Twill fabrics can be patterned and textured with various weave designs, but the primary focus is on the diagonal rib pattern. This pattern can be varied and intricate, as seen in herringbone twill or twill damask, but the overall texture remains consistent with the twill weave.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics offer pattern versatility beyond the weave structure. The distinctive crinkle texture allows for a broader range of surface patterns and designs, enhancing the visual appeal of crepe garments. Crepe can be printed with intricate motifs or used in solid colors to highlight the unique texture.

Cleaning

• Twill: Twill fabrics are relatively easy to clean and maintain. They can usually be machine washed, and some heavier twills may even be suitable for regular tumble drying. However, specific cleaning instructions may vary based on the fiber content of the twill fabric.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics may require more delicate care during cleaning due to their delicate crinkled texture. Depending on the fiber used, crepe garments may need to be hand washed or dry cleaned to preserve their unique texture and prevent excessive wrinkling.

Trendiness

• Twill: Twill fabrics are considered classic and enduring. They have stood the test of time and remain popular across various fashion seasons. While specific twill variations may experience periodic trends, the overall fabric is a staple in the fashion industry and continues to be well-received by consumers.
• Crepe: Crepe fabrics often experience fluctuations in trendiness. They are particularly sought after for formal events and upscale occasions, but their popularity may vary with changing fashion preferences. Crepe may be considered more fashionable during certain seasons or when specific designers incorporate it into their collections.

Twill Vs Crepe: Comparison Table

Aspect	Twill	Crepe
Weave Structure	Diagonal parallel ribs create the characteristic twill pattern.	Crepe is defined by its crinkle-textured surface achieved through a special finishing process.
Appearance	Diagonal ridges in the fabric.	Rippled, pebbled, or crinkled texture.
Drape	Generally, twill fabrics have a stiffer drape.	Known for its elegant and graceful drape.
Fabric Weight	Twill can be medium to heavy-weight.	Crepe fabrics are generally lightweight.
Durability	Twill fabrics are durable and resistant to wear and tear.	Crepe fabrics are less durable in comparison.
Common Uses	Denim, workwear, upholstery, chinos, etc.	Wedding dresses, evening gowns, skirts, blouses, suits, etc.
Formality	Can be used for casual and formal wear.	Primarily used for formal and elegant attire.
Fabric Type	Twill can be made from various fibers, including natural and synthetic.	Crepe can be made from natural or synthetic fibers.
Drapability	Twill fabrics have a less flowing drape.	Crepe fabrics drape beautifully and flow gracefully.
Texture	Smooth surface with visible diagonal lines.	Distinctive crinkled or pebbled texture.
Manufacturing	Twill weave is a specific weaving technique.	Crepe texture is achieved through a finishing process.
Wrinkling	Twill fabrics tend to wrinkle less easily.	Crepe fabrics can have a tendency to wrinkle.
Versatility	Twill is versatile and used in various applications.	Crepe is primarily used for specific formal wear.
Breathability	Twill fabrics can have good breathability.	Crepe fabrics often provide excellent breathability.
Comfort	Comfortable to wear due to its sturdiness.	Crepe fabrics offer a comfortable and soft feel.
Cost	Twill fabrics can vary widely in cost.	Crepe fabrics can be more expensive due to the finishing process.
Texture Types	Different twill variations like herringbone.	Various types of crepe, like crepe de chine.
Pattern Versatility	Twill patterns can be varied and intricate.	Crepe patterns are generally consistent.
Cleaning	Twill is relatively easy to clean and maintain.	Crepe fabrics may require special care.
Trendiness	Twill is a classic and enduring fabric choice.	Crepe is often associated with elegance and sophistication.

Frequently Asked Questions

To Recap

Twill and crepe stand as two remarkable textile weaves, each possessing its own distinct qualities and purposes in the realm of fashion and textiles.

Twill’s enduring appeal lies in its durability and versatility, serving as a reliable fabric for everyday and industrial wear. On the other hand, crepe’s luxurious crinkle texture and graceful drape make it a sought-after choice for formal and upscale garments.

Understanding the differences between these fabrics enables designers, fashion enthusiasts, and consumers to make informed choices, embracing the unique attributes of twill and crepe to create stunning and appropriate clothing for diverse occasions.