Close up of beige green and brown pique fabric

What is Pique Fabric: How It’s Made, Clothing Uses, and Fabric Buying Guide

Pique fabric is a classic textile known for its subtle texture, breathability, and durability, qualities that make it a favorite for polo shirts, summer dresses, and sweatshirts. Whether you’re sewing at home or sourcing fabric for your fashion brand, understanding pique fabric’s structure and uses will help you make better choices for your next project.

What Is Pique Fabric?

Pique fabric (pronounced pee-kay) is a type of knit or woven fabric characterized by its raised, waffle-like texture. This texture is created using a special weaving or knitting technique that forms small geometric patterns such as cords, waffles, or honeycombs on the surface.

women wearing a cap and a navy sweatshirt in pique fabric

Unlike flat cotton fabrics, pique fabric structure allows more air to circulate, making it ideal for garments like pique fabric T-shirts and pique fabric dresses. The result is a fabric that feels both breathable and elegant, combining comfort with a subtle sense of depth and detail.

History of Pique Fabric

Pique originated in 18th-century England as a woven fabric used in fine shirting and quilting. Its name comes from the French word piquer, meaning “to quilt” or “to stitch.”

In the early 20th century, pique gained global recognition through the rise of the polo shirt, popularized by tennis players and luxury sportswear brands. Since then, pique has remained a symbol of refined casual wear, seen in everything from preppy polos like Ralph Lauren, to sophisticated cotton pique dresses to premium pique sweatshirts.

4 Key Characteristics of Pique Fabric

Distinct Texture
The hallmark of pique is its raised weave that gives a subtle waffle or honeycomb appearance. This not only adds visual interest but also improves breathability.
Breathable & Comfortable
The fabric’s tiny air pockets allow for ventilation, which is why pique fabric is good for summer clothing.
Durable & Shape-Retaining
Pique holds its structure better than many knits, making it less prone to stretching out or losing shape after washing.
Versatile Weight Options
Available in lightweight to heavyweight varieties, pique can be used for both casual and tailored garments.

How Is Pique Fabric Made?

Pique fabric can be produced through both weaving and knitting techniques, though knitted pique (used in polo shirts) is more common today.

Warp and Weft Weaving: Traditional cotton pique is made using dobby or jacquard looms that lift certain yarns to create the raised texture.
Knitted Pique: This version uses double knit construction with two yarn sets—one forming the face texture and the other reinforcing the back layer for strength and flexibility.
Fiber Composition: The most common is cotton pique fabric, but modern variations include blends with bamboo, lyocell, modal or recycled polyester fibers for added softness, stretch, or sustainability.

Why Choose Pique Fabric

Pique’s unique texture and versatility make it suitable for a wide range of garments:

For Summer Wear: Its airy structure makes it perfect for breathable T-shirts and polos.
For Smart Casual Looks: It holds shape well, lending a crisp, elevated appearance to dresses and skirts.
For Everyday Comfort: Cotton pique is soft against the skin, easy to sew, and machine washable.
For Activewear: Its textured surface helps wick moisture and promote airflow, keeping you cool and dry during workouts or outdoor activities.

6 Clothing & Garment Uses of Pique Fabric

Pique Polo Shirts – The most iconic use, offering a refined yet sporty feel.
T-Shirts – Ideal for warmer weather, thanks to its light and breathable texture.
Sweatshirts – Medium to heavyweight pique provides structure and warmth while maintaining breathability, making it great for casual pullovers and light layering pieces.
Activewear – The textured knit allows for airflow and moisture control, keeping the wearer cool and comfortable during sports or workouts
Dresses & Skirts – A structured yet soft drape that works beautifully for casual summer pieces.
Blazers & Jackets – Medium-weight pique adds structure without stiffness.

Where to Buy Pique Fabric & Buying Tips

When choosing pique for your sewing or production needs, keep these points in mind:

For Sewists

Look for lightweight cotton pique fabric for breathable tops and dresses.
Always pre-wash before cutting, as natural fibers may shrink slightly.
Choose mercerized finishes for smoother texture and sheen.

For Fashion Brands

Consider Supima cotton pique for luxury collections, it’s softer, stronger, and longer-lasting.
Look for recycled polyester pique if you're creatng a sustainable collection
Ask suppliers about certifications like OEKO-TEX for sustainable sourcing.
Test drape and GSM (grams per square meter) to match your design intent, lightweight for tops, medium to heavy for structured pieces.

What Types of Pique Fabric Does Yardblox Offer?

Yardblox Fabrics offers a curated range of pique fabrics suitable for both retail and wholesale needs. Our collection includes:

Supima Cotton Pique – Premium softness and durability with a luxurious hand feel.
RPET Pique – Eco-friendly option made from recycled plastic bottles.
Cotton Pique – Classic breathable texture ideal for polos and dresses.
Mercerized Finish Pique – Smooth, slightly glossy finish with enhanced color depth.
Lightweight Pique – Perfect for summer garments and tees.
Mediumweight Pique – Balanced drape for structured tops and dresses.
Heavyweight Pique – Great for jackets, uniforms, or outerwear with texture.

Working with a network of 100 suppliers, Yardblox is the go-to source for brands and sewists looking for high-quality pique fabrics by the yard, free swatches, and low minimums to suit every project size.

Solid Stretch Mercerized Combed Cotton Pique A110312

USD 19.43

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