Calico fabric is a soft, lightweight cotton material that has been used in clothing for centuries. It became popular in Europe in the 17th century because it was affordable and versatile. Calico underwear made from this fabric is comfortable and breathable, making it a great choice for everyday wear.
If you’re fed up with synthetic fabrics that irritate your skin, calico might be the solution. Choosing calico gives you soft, breathable comfort for daily wear, and is often recommended by underwear manufacturers for its natural feel.
In this article, I’ll share what is calico underwear and explain why it could be the perfect addition to your wardrobe. Stay tuned for more!
Table of Contents
What is Calico Fabric?
Calico fabric is a natural cotton material with unique features. It is made from unbleached, often raw cotton, which keeps its organic look. The fabric may have small bits of cotton seeds or husks, giving it a rustic charm.
Key Features of Calico Fabric
- Natural and Unfinished: Calico is usually not bleached, so it keeps its creamy, natural color. This gives it a more authentic, organic look.
- Simple Weave: The fabric is woven in a basic plain weave, making it durable and breathable.
- Moderate Softness: It’s softer than khadi cotton but not as smooth as muslin. With a weight range of 70-250 GSM, it is heavier than muslin but lighter than canvas, giving it a balanced feel.
- Breathability and Moisture Absorption: Calico fabric allows air to flow easily and absorbs moisture well. It’s great for comfortable, functional wear, especially in warm weather.
- Durability and Low Stretch: Calico has little stretch. But, it is strong and long-lasting due to its untreated cotton threads.
If you’re thinking about Calico underwear, its breathability and moisture-wicking properties make it very comfortable. Since it’s made from natural cotton, there are fewer chemicals and treatments, which makes it perfect for sensitive skin.
Origins of Calico
Calico underwear originated in Calicut (now Kozhikode), a historic town in Kerala, India. It began in the 11th century. The fabric was originally made using Gujarati cotton from Surat and became known for its unique, colorful designs. It quickly gained popularity in markets worldwide.
Early Mentions and Designs
The term “calico” first appeared in Indian literature as “chaliyan”. One of the earliest mentions is by the 12th-century writer Hemachandra. He described the fabric featuring lotus designs, which became one of its most iconic patterns. This early introduction to calico’s distinct look helped it become famous across the globe.
Trade Expansion and Global Reach
By the 15th century, calico textiles reached Cairo, the capital of Egypt under the Ottoman Empire. This marked the start of a wider global trade network, which grew in the 17th century, eventually reaching European markets. As trade expanded, calico became highly desired by merchants, clothing designers, and buyers worldwide.
Knowing the history of Calico underwear gives you a deeper appreciation of its rich legacy. It lies behind the fabrics we enjoy today. Calico’s cultural heritage and craftsmanship keep it vital to fashion.
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Production and Appearance
When asked what is calico underwear? You need know calico underwear is made from natural, unbleached cotton, which offers a great mix of durability and breathability. The production of Calico follows these key steps:
Steps in Production
- Harvesting: Cotton is carefully picked to select the best fibers.
- Cleaning and Carding: The fibers are cleaned and prepared for spinning.
- Spinning: The cleaned fibers are spun into yarn, which forms the fabric.
- Weaving: The yarn is woven using a basic technique, creating a sturdy and smooth fabric.
Calico is often sold in its loomstate, meaning it’s in its natural form without any cleaning, bleaching, or additional processing. This gives the fabric a slightly beige or gray color and occasional specks of cotton seeds, adding to its rustic look.
Dyeing and Printing Techniques
Calico is traditionally dyed and printed with natural dyes, resulting in a range of colors using methods like: – Reactive fabric dyeing – Bamboo pen painting – Wooden block printing
Expert Insight: If the fabric is in its loomstate, a pre-wash is usually needed for the dye to absorb evenly. This careful approach ensures you get high-quality Calico underwear that not only looks great but also feels soft and natural on your skin.
H.M ROBIN, Sales Manager
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Modern Usage
When asked what is calico underwear? Calico has become an important fabric in the fashion industry, particularly for creating prototypes and testing garment designs. This versatile material offers many benefits that make it essential for designers.
Affordable Prototyping
Calico is often used to make toiles or garment prototypes. Its lack of stretch and low cost make it perfect for testing garment patterns. You can see how the design fits and flows on the body without spending too much on more expensive fabrics. This helps identify fit issues and refine the design before moving to the final version.
Advantages for Designers
Using calico for toiling helps ensure that your designs will work well with the final fabric. Big fashion houses often rely on calico to perfect the shape and fit by reworking the same garments multiple times. This process is crucial for delivering high-quality finished garments that meet both design and functional needs.
Practical Use in Fashion
Calico is also used for its plain weave and its unique multicolored floral block prints. It originates from Kozhikode, India, once known as Calicut by European traders. Though it isn’t commonly used in final garments, it remains an essential part of the garment development process, helping optimize the design and construction of your collection.
Pro Tip: Using calico in your design workflow can save costs and improve the accuracy of your final product. Whether you’re testing a new design or refining an existing one, calico is a practical and important tool in modern fashion development.
What is Calico Underwear and the Benefits
Comfort
- Calico underwear is famous for its softness. It’s a comfy choice for everyday wear. Its hypoallergenic properties make it ideal for sensitive skin. It reduces the risk of irritation and allergic reactions. The natural cotton fibers are gentle against the skin, providing a soothing feel.
- Moisture-Wicking Abilities: Calico fabric wicks moisture from the skin. It keeps the wearer dry and comfortable all day. This ability to manage moisture helps prevent discomfort and maintains a fresh feeling, even during active days.
Eco-Friendly Choice
- Natural Composition and Biodegradability: Calico is made from 100% cotton, a natural and renewable resource. Its biodegradable properties appeal to eco-conscious consumers. They want to reduce their footprint. Choosing calico underwear supports sustainable fashion practices.
Versatility in Style
- Calico underwear comes in many styles, like briefs and bikinis. They suit different needs and tastes. This versatility ensures that there is a comfortable and stylish option for everyone.
- Fashionable Patterns and Dyes: Calico fabric can be printed or dyed in many patterns and colors. This adds a stylish touch to underwear. It lets for personal expression and style. So, calico underwear is both functional and trendy.
Suggested Reading: Why Micro Modal Fabric Men’s Underwear Is Popular
Care and Maintenance of Calico Underwear
1. Washing Instructions
- Machine Washing: Use cold water and mild detergent to maintain fabric quality. Cold washing can reduce energy use by up to 90%.
- Pre-Washing: Pre-wash to prevent shrinkage and enhance softness, reducing shrinkage by up to 5%.
2. Drying Tips
- Air Drying: Air dry to avoid heat damage and extend fabric life by up to 30%.
3. Ironing and Storage
- Ironing: Use medium heat to avoid scorching. Iron slightly damp for best results.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, folded or hung to prevent creasing.
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Conclusion
What is calico underwear? Calico underwear is a stylish and sustainable choice for comfort and eco-friendly living. It’s made from natural fibers, which makes it breathable, soft, and durable. Choosing calico means supporting environmentally-conscious fashion without sacrificing style.
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FAQs
1. What is calico underwear made from?
Calico underwear is made from calico fabric. It is a lightweight, breathable cotton. It is soft and comfortable.
2. Why should I choose calico underwear over synthetic options?
Calico underwear is preferred for its natural fibers. They are gentle on the skin and more breathable than synthetics.
3. Is calico underwear suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes, calico is hypoallergenic and ideal for sensitive skin, as it reduces the risk of irritation and allergic reactions.
4.How do I care for calico underwear?
Wash in cold water with mild detergent. Air dry to prevent heat damage. Store it to maintain its shape and softness.
5. Does calico underwear shrink after washing?
Calico may shrink slightly after the first wash, so pre-washing is recommended to minimize this effect.