When style talks smooth: Here’s why satin continues to be a fashion constant

From style icon Audrey Hepburn to Bollywood fashionista Sonam Kapoor — satin, the luxe fabric, has been a favourite of fashion forward women through the ages.

Think sexy, luxurious satin, and you are at once reminded of late British actor and style icon Audrey Hepburn’s black Givenchy gown in satin from the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961). From being used as a staple for lingerie, girdles, brassieres, and corsets for fashionable Paris women in the 1880s, and gradually evolving into a bridalwear regular by the 1920s, to blooming into a slip dress constant (think slinky negligee-inspired outfits seen on runway icons like Kate Moss), the fabric has come a long way. Cut to today, the fabric is back in the limelight, with gowns, lehengas, and even funky bomber jackets.

Late actor and style icon Audrey Hepburn in the classic satin dress

“The most memorable reference to satin has to be old Hollywood gowns. The high slits and drapes looked super glamorous and flattering. What I love most about the fabric is Its sheen and fluidity, which also makes it popular,” says designer Anushree Reddy.

Actor Sonam Kapoor wears a gown with a satin bodice.

Actor Katrina Kaif in a blue tea length dress in satin.

Shraddha Kapoor in a satin bomber jacket.

Bollywood fashionistas, too, seem to be loving satin. From Katrina Kaif’s blue dress to Shraddha Kapoor’s bomber jacket, myriad interpretations have been seen. “Last season, satin bombers were all the rage which reminded people that satin doesn’t have to be used in an uptight aesthetic only. It lifts a simple silhouette like a slip dress or a cold shoulder top making it sexier and more feminine,” says designer Nandita Mahtani.

Wondering what’s the best way to wear the fabric? Mahtani likes it casual. “I would love the idea of satin and denim. A simple satin dress with a denim bomber makes the outfit chic and confident,” she says. Stylist Vikram Seth believes it works wonders with Indianwear, “Satin teamed with a bling blouse or even a printed one can give the ensemble the perfect lift,” he says.