Stretch fabric in men's clothing: What is it and how does it work?

What is stretch fabric?

To put it simply, stretch fabric materials are elasticated. They have the ability to stretch and 'ping' back to their original shape once tension is released. We often file stretchy clothing under sportswear or athleisure, but stretch can be found in a variety of clothes we wear for even the smartest occasions, including your favourite suit.

Stretch fabrics are achieved by adding elastic fibres, such as Lycra, into a garment and blending or weaving them with other fibres. Opting for stretch fabric in your suit, shirt or failsafe trousers is a must if you require practical, everyday comfort but don't want to compromise on looking smart.

When you're searching for your next wardrobe staple or showstopper and the comfort that stretchy fabrics provide is a key factor, look for the phrase: 'touch of stretch' as this often means the product features elastane. You can find this in a variety of Suit Direct's pieces in slim-fit, regular and sometimes even tailored designs, built for busy, on-the-go lifestyles or off-duty occasions.

How does it work?

How a garment gets its flexibility can be achieved in three ways: naturally, added to the fabric, or how it's woven. There are many materials which include elastane, such as polyester, nylon and velvet, and these can be found in your wardrobe's everyday clothing.

Weighing up a garment's stretch quality depends on the amount of elastane added to the accompanying materials. Take the likes of our men's two-piece suits, for example. Typically, such suits typically contain less than 5% elastane but it's enough to give clothing that much-needed stretch that always goes back to its original shape despite what you put it through.

Why choose it?

There are numerous reasons! Of course, the main factor is comfort but we often don't realise just how durable and breathable elasticated fabrics can be.

Not only does elastane boost a garment's tear resistance meaning it can resist repeated stretching but this material has moisture-wicking qualities, keeping you cooler for longer no matter the occasion.

Caring for your item:

It should be straightforward caring for your elasticated fabrics, as they're both quick to dry and wrinkle-resistant. It's best to wash at 30 degrees in the washing machine or hand-wash to maintain your garment's stretchiness and avoid shrinkage.