Fabrics that made it 'big' this year

If 'Style Quotient' is a major factor in your life and you have been ardently following Net-A-Porter throughout, the year 2010 must have definitely surprised you and changed your connotation about fashion in terms of fabrics.

Oversized knits, bold patterns, slimming suits in various textiles and fabrics have journeyed towards mainstream fashion and it has been all about experimenting and personalization. Designers like Karl Lagerfeld and Ralph Lauren are making use of new materials leading to an explosion of textiles like tweeds and woolen fabrics on the streets this year. Here is a review of some of the biggest trends in terms of fabrics for the year 2010:

Plaid

Made mostly with woven wool, this fabric of Scottish origin has been at the center of the fashion industry lately, with patterns ranging from dual shades of color like lemon green and yellow to a more traditional combination of grey, black and white.

Originating from the Celtic word 'plaide', the material is made of alternating bands of colored thread woven together at right angles to one another. Plaids have almost always been associated with royalty and more-so-ever with the Scottish or Celtic culture.

However, under the Dress Act of 1746, the material was banned like many other aspects of Gaelic culture. Later on, in 1782, when the law was repealed, the fabric was adopted as a symbolic national dress of the region.

Due to its constant association with British aristocracy and military, plaids developed an air of exclusivity. In the 1970s, during the era of Punk fashion, the material made resurgence in use. Many a times, the texture was used as a way to voice discontent against the ruling authority.

However, not always the material has been used as a symbol of rebellion as in the case of the hipster fashion era. Plaids particularly became a fashion statement during the 1990s when grunge king, Kurt Cobain made use of it.

For a stylish professional look, plaids in black and white pattern is the best to pair with formal pants while for a more casual look, colorful plaids can be used.

Tweed

When we utter the word 'tweed', a rough, unfinished woolen fabric worn mostly by stodgy professors comes to mind. Although, woven mostly in subdued colors, tweeds can be an interesting choice, particularly when blended with proper accessories.

As retro as it sounds, the material has recently made a huge comeback in high-fashion with many designers and high-end stores crafting intriguing pieces and ensembles out of the material.

Originally coined as tweel by the Scots, the material is closely woven by blending together multi-colored woolen strands into either a checked or herringbone pattern.

As interesting as it sounds, the right way to adorn a tweed garment is a little tricky. Avoid pairing it with a similar textured garment and even if you do so, choose the other garment with a different weave. Also, select textures with small, subtle increments to prevent a 'too bold' look.

Cashmere

Its naturally warm and cozy texture is what attracts people, apart from the fact that the material exudes luxury and style.

Designers like Oscar De La Renta, Donna Karan and Thomas Wylde have introduced fabulous luxe woolies for the winter that makes one want to cozy up in its comfort.

Cashmere wool is extremely fine in its texture and garments made of the material are almost always regarded as a 'must-have' for the winter festive season. Cashmeres are best in neutral tones like tan, grey and ivory and can be paired with contrasting colors.