Shot silk

French day dress
MFA# 1998.454

Description

A type of Taffeta fabric in which different colors are used for Silk warp and weft yarns. Shot silk has an iridescent appearance and was used as early as the 7th century. It is currently used for neckties and academic robes. The technique is also used with Polyester, Acetate and Rayon. The term 'shot' is also used to refer to the use of metallic threads added to the weave.

Synonyms and Related Terms

changeant; changeable silk; changeable taffeta; cross-color; Byzantine silk

Additional Images

• 

  Bonnet
  MFA# 54.1781

• 

  Jacket
  MFA# 2018.2323

• 

  Evening dress
  MFA# 2018.2323

• 

  Pantsuit
  MFA# 2018.2323

Resources and Citations

• Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shot_silk (Accessed Oct. 21, 2020)