Jacquard appears in almost every hanfu listing, usually as a premium claim. It is worth understanding what it actually means, because the difference between jacquard and print is one of the clearest quality signals in hanfu — and one of the easiest to check.
What jacquard is
Jacquard is a weaving technique, not a pattern style. The pattern is created by the loom controlling individual warp threads, so the design is woven into the fabric rather than printed onto its surface. The result is a fabric with texture: the pattern sits in the cloth, catches light at an angle, and can be felt with a fingertip.
Jacquard vs print vs embroidery
| Jacquard | Embroidery | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| How it is made | Woven into the cloth | Printed on the surface | Stitched on top |
| Texture | Raised, tactile | Flat | Raised stitches |
| Durability | Does not fade or crack | Can fade, crack or peel | Durable if cared for |
| Cost | Higher | Lowest | Highest (labour) |
How to tell jacquard from print
- Turn it over. Jacquard usually shows the pattern on the reverse side, often in reverse colours. A print shows a pale or plain reverse.
- Look at an angle. Jacquard catches light unevenly because the surface is textured. Print reflects evenly.
- Touch it. Jacquard has a raised, sometimes slightly stiff hand. Print feels smooth and flat.
- Check the price. Genuine jacquard costs more to produce; a large patterned garment at a very low price is usually printed.
Why jacquard matters for hanfu
- Pleats hold better. Jacquard has more body than chiffon, so pleats stay crisp and the skirt swings rather than collapses.
- It photographs with depth. The texture catches light, so the garment reads as rich rather than flat.
- It ages well. Prints can fade or crack at folds; a woven pattern does not.
- It suits formal pieces. Jacquard reads as more formal than cotton or chiffon, which makes it right for weddings, festivals and evening wear.
Our jacquard pieces
- Jacquard horse-face skirt – long mamian qun — a tonal woven pattern with a long, structured line.
- Black jacquard horse-face skirt – stretch comfort fit — deep black with a subtle woven texture.
Browse the jacquard hanfu collection or the mamian skirt collection.
Care
- Machine wash cold, inside out, in a laundry bag.
- Do not tumble dry — heat flattens the weave.
- Hang by the waistband so pleats fall straight.
- Press on low heat with a cloth between the iron and the fabric.
Frequently asked questions
What is jacquard fabric?
A fabric whose pattern is woven into the cloth rather than printed on it. The technique is named after Joseph Marie Jacquard, who developed the loom control mechanism in the early nineteenth century.
Is jacquard better than print?
It is more durable and more expensive. Whether it is “better” depends on the garment: for a pleated skirt, jacquard holds shape better; for a light summer dress, a print or chiffon may be more comfortable.
How can I tell if a hanfu is jacquard?
Turn it inside out: jacquard shows the pattern on the reverse, often in reverse colours. It also has a tactile, slightly raised surface.
Does jacquard shrink?
Most polyester jacquard does not shrink significantly. Hot water and tumble drying can distort the weave, so wash cold and air dry.
Read next: horse-face skirt guide · types of hanfu · hanfu buyer’s guide