Eco-Friendly
Fabric that is good for the environment whether it is through manufacturing or a low carbon footprint. Fibers such as hemp, organic cotton, and linen are eco-friendly as they either use the entire plant in production, less energy to produce, or less to no pesticides in the growing process. (see hemp, organic cotton, and linen).
Eclon
A brand of nylon produced by a performance fabric company known for its soft and smooth hand. It is primarily used in athletic wear because of its breathability. However, it has recently been adopted into the fashion world as well.
Uses:
- athletic wear
- athleisure
Pros:
- soft
- smooth
Egyptian Cotton
An extra long staple cotton that grows in Egypt and produces a luxuriously soft hand. The climate of the country allows the cotton staple to grow between 1.25" to 2" long. This fiber is most commonly seen in bedding. (see Sea Island Cotton, Pima Cotton, and Cotton)
Uses:
- bedding
- fashion applications
Pros:
- high luster
- soft
- breathable
- durable
- machine washable
Cons:
- wrinkles easily
Elastane
A synthetically made fiber that is known for its Elasticity. Other names include spandex or Lycra. (see Dorlastan(e))
Uses:
- athletic wear
- athleisure
- bathing suits
- fashion apparel
- lingerie
Pros:
- high elasticity
Cons:
- wears over time
- poor tenacity
- poor abrasion resistance
- heat sensitivity
- bleach sensitivity
Elastic
A trim that is made with rubber or elastane surrounded by woven fibers such as cotton and polyester. It can stretch up to twice its length and may be used for waistbands or a number of other applications to provide a fitted or ruffled look.
Uses:
- waistbands
- cuffs
Pros:
- high elasticity
Elasticity
The ability of a fiber to stretch and recover.
Elastomer
Also known as elastic polymer, it is a rubber-like material that stretches and is used within fabrics and trims for an added elasticity.
Uses:
- fabric
- trim
Pros:
- high elasticity
Elastomultiester
A cross-linked polyester fiber that carries elasticity.
Pros:
- high elasticity
Electrical Conductivity
Refers to static build-up of a fiber. Cellulose fibers and protein fibers conduct electricity away from the body, therefore not building up static. Synthetic fibers clings to the wearer and can shock you in cold, dry weather. (see Cellulose Fiber, Protein Fiber, and Synthetic Fiber)
Elongation
References the degree to which a fiber can be stretched without breaking (or the amount of give in a fabric).
Embossed
A process used by hot stamps or rolls that leaves an embedded pattern throughout fabric or leather giving it a raised design. It is primarily used on velvets, leather and suede.
Uses:
- velvet
- leather
- suede
Embroidery
A craft that uses needle and thread, as well as other materials, to embellish fabric. Although it is widely known as decorative art, it gets its start from its strength. Button holes, eyelets, and patches were, and still are, embroidered for reinforcement. It has a long history that dates back to the 5th century B.C. and is still used today. (see Beading)
English Ringneck Feather
A type of pheasant that has brown or taupe colored feathers with black stripes.
Uses:
- jewelry
- costumes
- decorations
Eolienne
A ribbed fabric typically made from silk and cotton that is similar to a poplin, but has a lighter weight. It mixes heavy and lightweight yarns to create a brocade-like design across its face. This fabric was primarily used to make formal gowns during the early 1900's.
Uses:
- evening dresses
Eyelash Fringe
A series of fine yarns that line the edge of a fabric or trim. Mostly seen in laces.
Uses:
- lace
- trims
Eyelets
A round or geometric hole made in fabric using either grommets or an embroidered edge for reinforcement. They can be used for functionality purposes, such as for shoe laces or ribbon, or for decorative purposes in an all-over pattern. Primarily seen in cotton fabrics, it has become a spring and summer staple in fashion.
Uses:
- dresses
- tops
- skirts
- shorts