Gabardine Fabric | A Brief History, Properties and Uses

Gabardine fabric revolutionized the textile industry in its early days. Its water-repellent and lightweight properties made it a cutting-edge innovation in the textile world at the time. Its advantages made it a popular choice over time, especially for outerwear.

Take a look at the history of gabardine fabric, how it is produced, its uses and care recommendations.

What is Gabardine Fabric? | Production and Origin

The word gabardine is thought to have its origins in Middle High German, from the word "wallevart," meaning traveler or pilgrim. It is believed to have been a practical solution for hiding belongings and covering the robes worn by travelers or pilgrims.

“Wallevert” was transferred to Old French as “galverdine” and to Spanish as “gabardina”, gaining the meaning of coat with the influence of the Spanish words ‘tabardina’ and ‘gabán’.

In 1879, the famous British designer Thomas Burberry introduced the new fabric he produced to the world called 'gabardine'.

In its original production, Burberry makes wool yarn water-repellent by using wool grease called lanolin.

The threads are then woven using a technique called twill—or twill. Gabardine fabric is woven with many more warp threads than weft threads. In this weaving technique, the warp and weft threads are knitted more tightly than usual, resulting in a much more durable fabric.

Water-repellent fabrics were already being produced before Thomas Burberry developed gabardine. The waterproof fabrics of the time were woven using rubberized cotton. However, these fabrics were heavy and unbreathable, compromising comfort.

Gabardine fabric's strong water-repellent properties, rather than being waterproof, allow it to be lighter. Its windproof, water-repellent, and lightweight structure is revolutionizing the textile industry. It's finding significant use in military clothing, sportswear, and outerwear.

During World War I, gabardine fabric was used in British Armed Forces uniforms. The British War Office commissioned Burberry to design new coats that would better withstand the harsh conditions of war. This is how gabardine trench coats, which are now a trending trend in today's fashion world, were born.

Outerwear made of gabardine is also favored by polar explorers. Nobel Peace Prize-winning Norwegian scientist Fridtjof Nansen first wore this fabric during his North Pole expedition in 1893.

Later, various polar explorers used gabardine for clothing, tents, awnings, and even motorcycle covers.

Gabardine Fabric Properties

Today, gabardine fabric can be produced with a variety of fibers, including cotton, wool, viscose, and polyester. The fabric's properties and uses vary depending on the type of yarn used.

Gabardine Fabric Types and Usage Areas

1. Wool Gabardine Fabric

   
   

Gabardine fabric was originally produced with wool yarns. The wool yarns give the fabric a much thicker texture and provide warmth. Wool gabardine offers a flowing and very elegant appearance.

Wool yarn is preferred in the production of suits, coats, winter jackets, and trousers. The famous Burberry trench coats are also made with this fabric.

2. Cotton Gabardine Fabric

   
   

Gabardine fabrics made from 100% cotton yarn have a soft texture and a natural look. While much lighter than wool yarns, they maintain their durability. Thanks to their breathable structure, they prevent sweating and are gentle on the skin.

Cotton gabardine fabrics are mostly used in casual wear. They are preferred in lightweight trench coats, casual trousers and skirts, and children's clothing.

Cotton polyester blend gabardine is mostly used in hotel and restaurant textiles.

3. Synthetic Gabardine Fabric

Synthetic gabardine is made from synthetic fibers like polyester or viscose. These fabrics, which are much lower in cost to produce, are known for their durability and luster compared to alternatives. They promise easy care and longevity.

Synthetic fibers can be used in products such as gabardine work trousers or work vests. They are also used in outerwear and bags.

4. Lycra Gabardine Fabric

   
   

Lycra gabardine fabric, also known as elastane or stretch gabardine, is made by blending cotton or polyester yarns with elastane. This type of fabric has a much more flexible structure, allowing for greater ease of movement.

Lycra gabardine fabrics are frequently preferred in slim-fit products and in garments such as trousers and skirts that want to create a sporty-chic feel.

5.  Linen Gabardine Fabric

   
   

Linen gabardines are produced by weaving linen fibers using a twill technique. This combines the advantages of linen with the durability of gabardine. The natural rustic look of linen is combined with the crisscross pattern of the weaving technique.

When gabardine is produced by blending linen with cotton or elastane, the fabric becomes soft and flexible. It provides both comfort and elegance.

The fine and breathable structure of linen fiber allows it to be frequently used in summer gabardine fabrics. Its elegant texture also makes it a preferred choice for upholstery, tablecloths, and accessories like hats and bags.

6. Fine Gabardine Fabric

Fine gabardine is created by a unique weaving technique. Its composition can be made of cotton or synthetic fibers. It is woven much finer than regular gabardine fabrics, making it lighter and more breathable. Fabrics produced with this weave type are preferred for summer wear.

7. Heavy Gabardine Fabric

Heavy gabardine fabrics are typically made with wool and cotton yarns. Their structure is more robust and rigid, increasing their resistance to wind and water.

It's used in winter clothing, workwear, tents, and other items like awnings.

Care Tips

Gabardine may require different care routines depending on the type of yarn used.

To remove stains spot clean with a damp cloth and without excessive rubbing. Make sure to remove the stain before it's dry, to proctect the fabric from fraying.

Dry cleaning is recommended for wool yarn gabardine fabric products.

It is recommended to wash gabardines woven from other yarns in the washing machine in the delicate mode at 30 degrees.

Detergents and bleaches containing harsh chemicals should never be used on this type of fabric. Otherwise, the fabric's structure can deteriorate, harden, and the color can fade.

Washed items should not be dried in direct sunlight. Using a dryer is also not recommended. It's best to dry items by laying them out in a place away from direct sunlight.

A low heat setting is recommended when ironing gabardine fabrics. The fabric should be ironed on the reverse side to prevent shine.

Products should be stored away from moisture and direct sunlight. You can hang or fold the fabric to store it.

Parting Words

Gabardine fabric is woven from natural materials, mostly wool and cotton. Its energy-efficient production process and longevity address sustainability concerns.

Gabardine fabric, produced with different blends and various weave densities, can be used in a wide range of products, from elegant garments to durable products.