'GOSSIP GIRL' GOSSIP: VELVET STRIKING COMEBACK
MOHAIR VELVET VS SYNTHETIC VELVET-BLENDS
WHY IS VELVET MAKING A COMEBACK?
Velvet never truly disappeared. It simply evolved!
Today's designers are embracing warmer, more inviting interiors, incorporating rich textures and furnishings that feel as luxurious as they look. We've seen velvet featured in celebrity homes, including Adam Levine's Hollywood Hills residence, Ellen Pompeo's Los Angeles home, and the iconic Gossip Girl interiors where mohair velvet and synthetic velvets add sophistication and character.
*Timeless Elegance: Adds depth, warmth, and sophistication to traditional and contemporary interiors.
*Versatility: Furnishings, headboards, drapery, wallcovering, and decorative pillows.
*Color & Texture: The pile reflects light differently depending on the angle, creating variations in color.
Here's something we often discuss with our clients at FabricBack: Not all velvets are created equal, and choosing the right one can make a big difference in performance, durability, and maintenance.
NATURAL MOHAIR VS. SYNTHETIC BLENDS: ADVANTAGES & DISADVANTAGES
100% Mohair Velvet — Natural Luxury
Made from the hair of Angora goats, mohair velvet is celebrated for its beautiful sheen, resilience, and exceptional durability.
Advantages
Naturally resilient pile that recovers well from compression
Excellent durability when manufactured for upholstery
Beautiful natural luster and luxurious texture
Good resistance to crushing compared with many other velvets
Long-lasting performance with proper care
Disadvantages
Higher price point
Requires specialized cleaning and maintenance
Can develop water marks or changes in pile appearance
Natural fibers may be sensitive to certain liquid treatments
Professional cleaning is often recommended
Our FabricBack Perspective: Mohair velvet is an excellent investment for designers seeking natural luxury and longevity, particularly for statement upholstery pieces.
SYNTHETIC VELVET BLENDS — VERSATILITY MEETS VALUE
Synthetic velvets are commonly manufactured using polyester, nylon, acrylic, or combinations of synthetic and natural fibers.
Advantages
More affordable than premium natural mohair velvet
Wide selection of colors, textures, and finishes
Many upholstery-grade options offer excellent abrasion resistance
Some constructions are easier to maintain
Compatible with selected stain and moisture protection treatments
Disadvantages
Quality and durability vary significantly by fiber and construction
Some blends may flatten, crush, or develop permanent pressure marks
Certain synthetic fibers are sensitive to heat
Some constructions may experience pilling or static buildup
Not every synthetic velvet is suitable for heavy-use upholstery
Our FabricBack Perspective: A well-constructed synthetic velvet can deliver beautiful results at a more accessible price, especially when paired with appropriate performance treatments.
MYTH VS. FACT: What Designers Should Know About Velvet
MYTH #1: Mohair velvet is too delicate for everyday upholstery.
FACT: Quality upholstery-grade mohair velvet is remarkably durable. Its resilient fibers make it an excellent choice for sofas, chairs, and other frequently used furnishings.
MYTH #2: Synthetic velvet is always less durable than natural mohair.
FACT: Not necessarily! High-quality synthetic upholstery velvets can offer excellent durability. Fiber composition, construction, abrasion resistance, and finishing all influence performance.
MYTH #3: Velvet cannot receive stain and moisture protection.
FACT: Many velvets can receive specially selected performance treatments. However, compatibility depends on the fiber, dyes, pile construction, and application method. Testing is essential.
We are here for any questions you have regarding which performance treatment or backing is the best fit for your project.
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