Corduroy, often referred to as the fabric of kings has a rich history dating back to ancient Egypt, where early forms of this textile were woven. Its modern version emerged during the 18th century in England, gaining popularity among the working class for its durability and warmth. By the 20th century, corduroy evolved into a symbol of casual elegance, becoming a staple in men’s wardrobes worldwide.
Types of velvet fabrics
Corduroy belongs to the velvet family, a luxurious category of fabrics known for their soft texture. Here are the main types:
- Crushed Velvet: known for its shiny, textured surface.
- Silk Velvet: highly luxurious and smooth, ideal for formal wear.
- Velveteen: a cotton-based velvet with a less pronounced pile, commonly used for everyday wear.
- Corduroy: unique for its raised cords or ridges making it versatile for both casual and semi-formal attire.
Corduroy ridges: the beauty of Wale counts
Corduroy is defined by its wale or the number of ridges per cm (see next graphic example for 100 centimeters).
Different wale amount provide varying aesthetics and functionality:
-
Wide wale (100-200 lines)
Ideal for jackets and outerwear, offering a bold, textured appearance. -
Mid-wale (300-500 lines)
Perfect for trousers, striking a balance between style and comfort. -
Fine wale (600-1000 lines)
Lightweight and elegant, suitable for refined, tailored looks.
The 3 illustrations show the difference in the distance and height of the ribs, highlighting the unique characteristics of each type:
While traditionally made of cotton, corduroy can also feature blends with polyester, cashmere, wool, or elastane for added durability and stretch. This is typical weights for corduroy fabrics:
| Fabric Weight (g/m²) | Usage |
|---|---|
| 200-300 g/m² | Lightweight shirts and trousers |
| 300-700 g/m² | Casual trousers and tailoring jackets |
| 500-800 g/m² | Heavy-duty outerwear and blazers |
"The fabric of kings" a common false etymology holds that the word corduroy derives from the French phrase corde du roi or the cord of the king.
Men’s corduroy trousers collection
Discover our collection of Rota tailored trousers, made exclusively in Italy with high quality cotton velvet Brisbane Moss, high rise with single pleats, regular classic fit, contact us for our made to measure service, you can make your velvet trousers in other colors or with a different fit.
A continuous set of Mid-Wale trousers (300-500 lines), 100% corduroy cotton 700 g/m², characterized by bright colors in warm tones, ideal for lovers of robust and warm velvet to wear with many outfits in free time and also in the working day with blazer and tie.
A continuous and permanent set of Fine Wale trousers (600-1000 lines) 98% cotton 2% elastane 450 g/m², classic colors ivory white and navy blue ideal to alternate with cotton flannel trousers for old money style office or casual time outfits.
Men’s corduroy jackets collection
This corduroy jacket is a must-have in the wardrobe of men who want to alternate with the classic blue wool blazer. The elegance and comfort of this tailored jacket made in Italy by Caruso exclusively for Wools Boutique Uomo, with a soft and durable cotton corduroy fabric, offers a feeling of comfort while maintaining the same sobriety of a classic blue blazer ideal for formal outfits in the office or in free time with jeans and a turtleneck sweater.
General care instructions
Machine wash use cold water and a soft cycle to prevent shrinkage and protect the fabric’s nap (the soft raised ridges).
Hand wash use cold water hand wash with mild detergent.
Inside out turn the garment inside out to minimize wear on the ridges and prevent lint buildup.
Avoid overloading wash corduroy with similar fabrics to reduce friction.
Laundry contact a professional laundry, always follow the garment’s care label for specific instructions.
Air dry lay flat or hang to dry to prevent shrinkage and distortion.
Tumble dry use a low heat setting if machine drying is necessary, but avoid over-drying as it can weaken the fibers.
Ironing use a low to medium heat setting, use a damp cloth over the fabric and press lightly.
Stain removal treat stains immediately with a mild detergent or stain remover, avoid scrubbing, gently blot the stain to preserve the fabric's texture, have the stain handled in a professional laundry.