Woven fabric

Gabardine

A closely set twill presents fine diagonal ribs and a comparatively smooth reverse.

Also searched as: Gaberdine

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Schematic motif family, not an exact swatch or registered design. Color, scale and repeats vary; closely related names can overlap in trade use.

How it is made

Dense construction emphasizes a clear twill face, commonly with a steep diagonal. Fiber, yarn and finishing choices vary between wool, cotton and manufactured-fiber versions.

How to recognize it

Look for fine, closely spaced diagonal lines rather than a coarse denim-like surface.

Common uses

  • Trousers
  • Coats
  • Suits

What to distinguish

The word gabardine does not guarantee rain protection; any water-resistance claim belongs to the particular finished fabric.

Sources & further reading

Research checked 2026-09-27. Descriptions are original summaries; references support terminology and construction, not every product sold under a name.

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