Fabric Focus: Acetate Satin
Acetate satin is a type of fabric known for its shiny, smooth surface and luxurious appearance. The history of acetate fabric, including acetate satin, ties into the development of synthetic fibers in the early 20th century. Here’s a closer look at the fabric's history and its connection to satin jackets in the 1970s—a style I find both retro-sexy and totally 'now'.
The Origins of Acetate Fabric
Acetate is derived from cellulose, primarily from wood pulp or cotton linters. Its development began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as scientists sought to create new materials from natural sources.
The first commercial use of acetate came in the early 1920s. The fiber was initially developed by the British company Celanese Corporation and was known as "Celanese" acetate.
Teen pop icon Andy Gibb made acetate satin jackets a regular part of his look in promotional photos and on stage.
Characteristics
Acetate is a semi-synthetic fiber known for its silk-like appearance, smooth texture, and ability to take dyes well. These properties made it particularly popular for creating luxurious fabrics like satin.
Acetate satin is known for its lustrous sheen, drapability, and smoothness, making it an ideal fabric for garments requiring a rich, glossy finish.
Rise of Satin Jackets in the 1970s
The 1970s was a decade marked by diverse and evolving fashion trends. Satin jackets became a popular fashion item during this time, largely due to their association with both sports and popular culture.
Satin jackets were particularly popular in the music scene, often associated with rock bands and the glam rock movement, where shiny, bold clothing was part of the aesthetic.
The WaldvogelDK acetate satin colour range. Read more about this and our many other fabrics and materials HERE.
Acetate satin was commonly used in the production of satin jackets due to its affordability and the desired shiny, sleek look that was fashionable at the time.
These jackets were lightweight and had a distinctive glossy finish, often featuring colorful designs, embroidered logos, or team insignias. They became synonymous with "cool" during the 70s, worn by celebrities, musicians, and sports teams alike.
One of the most iconic uses of satin jackets in the 1970s was the "souvenir jacket" or "sukajan," which featured intricate embroidery and originated from Japan. Though often made from silk, many more affordable versions were made using acetate satin.
Another popular style was the "baseball jacket," which often featured acetate satin due to its shiny and smooth surface, making it popular among sports fans and teams.
Today
By the 1980s, fashion trends began to shift, and the popularity of satin jackets waned. However, they left a lasting impact on fashion, and vintage satin jackets from the 70s are still sought after today for their nostalgic value and distinctive style.
Acetate satin played a key role in the look and feel of these jackets, offering a material that was both visually striking and accessible, contributing to the iconic fashion of the 1970s.
