How does the thickness of scuba knits fabric impact its use in fashion design?

The thickness of scuba knits fabric significantly impacts its use in fashion design, mainly because of the following factors:

Structure and Support: Scuba knits fabric is thicker than typical knit fabrics, which gives it a more structured appearance. This makes it ideal for creating garments that need to hold their shape, such as bodycon dresses, pencil skirts, blazers, and even jackets. The thickness adds a sculptural quality, which designers can use to create clean, sharp lines and a polished look.

Volume and Silhouette: The thickness allows the fabric to add volume to a design. It doesn’t drape softly like thinner knits but instead creates more exaggerated silhouettes. Designers often use scuba knits to craft garments with flared skirts, peplum details, or other dimensional features that require a fabric with more body.

Comfort vs. Breathability: Thicker scuba knits offer less breathability than thinner fabrics, which can make them feel warmer when worn. This is particularly important when designing for different seasons; scuba knit garments might be better suited for cooler weather where warmth is desired, but less ideal for hot climates or activities that require high breathability.

Stretch and Recovery: Despite its thickness, scuba knits retain a good amount of stretch, thanks to their spandex content. This makes them comfortable to wear and suitable for fitted garments, but the thickness ensures that the stretch doesn’t compromise the structure. The recovery of the fabric after being stretched is also strong, which helps the garment maintain its shape over time.

Layering Considerations: In terms of layering, the thickness can make scuba knits less flexible compared to lighter fabrics. Designers must consider this when creating garments that need to be worn under or over other pieces. Thicker scuba knits can add bulk, which may affect the overall styling of an outfit.

The thickness of scuba knits fabric lends itself to designs that require structure, volume, and a sleek, modern aesthetic, though its weight and breathability can limit its use in certain situations.