Glossary

Deutsch: Wolle / Español: lana / Português: lã / Français: laine / Italiano: lana

Wool is a natural fibre obtained from sheep and other animals, commonly used in the fashion industry for its versatility, warmth, and durability.

Description

Wool in the fashion context is a highly valued textile fibre known for its exceptional insulating properties, breathability, and comfort. It is harvested from animals such as sheep, goats (cashmere), and rabbits (angora), and processed into various fabrics. Wool is used extensively in fashion for creating garments like sweaters, coats, suits, and accessories.

Wool has a long history in fashion, dating back thousands of years. It played a crucial role in ancient civilizations and continues to be a staple in modern fashion due to its adaptability and luxurious feel. The fibre's natural crimp provides elasticity and resilience, making it ideal for tailored clothing. Additionally, wool can be dyed in vibrant colours, enhancing its appeal in fashion design.

Special Considerations

Wool production involves shearing animals, which is typically done annually. Ethical and sustainable practices are becoming more important in the wool industry to ensure animal welfare and environmental protection. Certifications like the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) promote ethical sourcing.

Application Areas

• Knitwear: Sweaters, cardigans, and scarves made from wool are popular for their warmth and softness.
• Outerwear: Wool coats and jackets provide excellent insulation and are fashionable in colder climates.
• Tailoring: Wool suits and blazers are favoured for their structure, drape, and comfort.
• Luxury Fashion: High-end designers use wool for its quality and texture, incorporating it into elegant and sophisticated pieces.
• Home Textiles: Wool is also used in blankets, rugs, and upholstery for its durability and aesthetic appeal.

Well-Known Examples

• Merino Wool: Known for its fine, soft texture, it is widely used in high-quality knitwear and outdoor clothing.
• Cashmere: A luxury wool obtained from cashmere goats, prized for its softness and warmth.
• Lambswool: The first shearing of a young sheep, known for its softness and hypoallergenic properties.
• Tweed: A rough, woollen fabric often associated with classic British style, used in jackets and suits.
• Alpaca Wool: Grown in the Andes, alpaca wool is soft, lightweight, and warmer than sheep’s wool.

Treatment and Risks

Wool garments require special care to maintain their quality. They should be hand-washed or dry-cleaned to prevent shrinking and damage. Moths pose a significant risk to wool, and proper storage with moth repellents is essential. Additionally, some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to wool, making it less suitable for them.

Examples of Sentences

• "She wore a wool sweater to keep warm during the winter."
• "The designer showcased a new collection featuring wool coats."
• "He prefers wool suits for their durability and comfort."
• "The market has seen a rise in demand for ethically sourced wool."

Similar Terms

• Fleece: A synthetic fabric that mimics the insulating properties of wool.
• Acrylic: A man-made fibre often used as a wool substitute in knitwear.
• Mohair: A luxurious fibre obtained from the Angora goat, similar to wool.
• Cotton: Another natural fibre used in fashion, though less insulating than wool.
• Silk: A natural protein fibre, often used in combination with wool for luxury fabrics.

Weblinks

• top500.de: 'Wool' in the glossary of the top500.de
• industrie-lexikon.de: 'Wolle' in the industrie-lexikon.de (German)

Articles with 'Wool' in the title

• Merino Wool: Merino Wool refers to a very fine wool sheered from the merino sheep reared in Spain, but also from the sheep reared from Australia and New zealand. It is then spun into yarn that is fine but strong
• Mongolian Wool: Mongolian Wool refers to long, curly woolen fibers used as full fluffy collars or trims on garments. Bohemian-styled jackets of the late 1960's were often lined with this curly wool
• Astrakhan Wool: Astrakhan Wool refers to a fabric obtained from the Karakul breed of sheep.

Summary

Wool is an essential fibre in the fashion industry, valued for its warmth, versatility, and durability. It is used in a wide range of garments and accessories, from everyday knitwear to high-end fashion pieces. With a rich history and ongoing relevance, wool continues to be a staple in fashion, evolving with ethical and sustainable practices to meet modern demands.

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