Gabardine - A Luxury Fabric

Its signature feature is its distinct diagonal twill weave, which gives the fabric a subtle sheen and a pristine silhouette. This makes gabardine breathable, wrinkle-resistant and remarkably long-lasting, allowing garments to maintain their shape and elegance throughout the years.

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Gabardine is chosen by designers and artisans who value quality.

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The material itself was invented by Thomas Burberry and is used in luxury brands worldwide;

• Thomas Burberry, London, UK, invented gabardine in 1879 and it remains a symbol of British luxury craftsmanship and identity to this day.

• Savile Row Tailors, London UK, use gabardine for fine tailoring.

• Modern luxury tailoring houses like Enzo, in Beverley Hill, USA, use and highlight gabardine as a fabric known for elegance, durability, and premium drape in high‑end tailored garments.

• Louis Vuitton, Gucci and other designers regularly use gabardine for their high end women’s dresses.

 

Why we use gabardine

Gabardine was originally inspired by medieval pilgrim cloaks and the actual term “gabardine” comes from Spanish and Old French, referring to long protective garments. The term is also believed to have roots in Germanic words for pilgrimage. It is a textile that meets our standards of refinement and quality. It is a fabric trusted by the world’s most respected fashion houses.

 

What gabardine offers:

• Refined drape & silhouette

• Durability

• Comfort & breathability

• Polished and premium finish

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When you wear one of our thobes, you wear more than the garment, you’re wearing luxury.

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Why is gabardine better than other alternatives?

To help you understand the value of gabardine, here’s how it compares to other commonly used fabrics in the thobe market.

 

Gabardine vs Polyester

• Comfort: Gabardine breathes naturally; polyester traps heat and feels synthetic against the skin.

• Appearance: Gabardine has a subtle, elegant sheen; polyester often looks shiny or plastic-like.

• Longevity: Gabardine maintains structure for years; polyester degrades faster, loses shape and pills.

• Luxury perception: Gabardine is a luxury and premium tailoring fabric; polyester is a budget option.

 

Gabardine vs Cotton Polyester

• Shape retention: Gabardine holds its silhouette beautifully; cotton‑poly blends soften and lose crispness.

• Texture: Gabardine feels smooth and refined; cotton‑poly blends feel casual.

• Durability: Gabardine’s tight weave resists abrasion; blends wear down faster.

• Visual depth: Gabardine offers a subtle sheen, depth and richness; blends look flat and basic.

 

Gabardine vs Linen

• Wrinkle resistance: Gabardine stays sharp throughout the day; linen wrinkles instantly.

• Seasonal versatility: Gabardine works year‑round; linen is limited to warm weather.

• Luxury positioning: Linen is natural but not inherently premium; gabardine is a hallmark of fine tailoring.

 

Why brands choose gabardine

Gabardine is a luxury fabric engineered for those who appreciate quality. While cheaper materials may imitate the look, they cannot replicate the feel, performance, or longevity of true gabardine. When you choose gabardine, you’re choosing craftsmanship, refinement, and a garment that elevates every moment you wear it.