What is twill?
Twill is a basic weave family recognized by diagonal lines. [W]
- Classification
- Weave · Textile construction
- Other names & related terms
- Twill weave
These are qualitative descriptions, not lab scores. Fiber, yarn, construction, finish and garment design can change performance. Always follow the finished article’s care label.
Composition
Twill describes interlacing, not fiber content; cotton twill is one example. [W][A]
Material origin
Successive interlacing points shift across the cloth to form the diagonal. [W]
Breathability & moisture
A diagonal weave is not an air-permeability rating. [P]
Durability
Assess abrasion, pilling and strength separately for the intended use. [T]
Stretch characteristics
Check the actual sample; the construction name alone does not specify elastic recovery. [W]
Care guidance
Follow the finished article’s care label. [C]
Typical applications
- Trousers
- Jackets
Examples, not suitability certifications. Sources: [A]
Advantages & limitations
What it offers
Twill includes several patterns, including herringbone and chevron variations. [W]
What to consider
Different twill repeats have different floats; the name alone is not a strength specification. [W][T]
Practical editorial guidance
Before you choose
Use twill as a construction clue rather than a complete buying specification. A fine suiting and a heavy denim can both belong to this family. Match weight, drape, fiber and care to the intended garment, and ask for testing data when strength is critical.
Sources & review notes
References support the statements marked above. Industry sources may promote their own materials; this guide makes no universal comfort or sustainability ranking.
- [C] FabricLink — General fabric care ↗
Care depends on the finished article and its label.
- [W] CottonWorks — Basic woven fabric designs ↗
Weave structures and their practical implications.
- [P] CottonWorks — Air permeability ↗
Airflow is measured on a fabric sample under specified test conditions; it is distinct from fiber absorbency.
- [T] CottonWorks — Garment durability ↗
Strength, abrasion and pilling are separate tests; acceptable performance is specific to the end use.
- [A] Cotton Incorporated — Twill applications ↗
Common applications of cotton versions. Construction definitions use the technical reference; promotional rankings are not adopted.
Last reviewed: . Suggest a correction.