One of the questions we’re asked most often at Ayten Gasson is: “Is this silk or satin?”
It’s a completely understandable question. The two are often used interchangeably, especially in lingerie. But they’re actually quite different. Understanding the distinction can help you make more informed, conscious choices about what you wear.
Silk: A Natural Fibre
Silk is a natural fibre, produced by silkworms. It has been used for thousands of years and is valued for its softness, breathability, and beautiful drape.
At Ayten Gasson, we use 100% silk, often Mulberry silk, which is considered the highest quality. It is a natural, biodegradable material that feels incredibly gentle against the skin.
We have also introduced organic bamboo silk (often referred to as vegan silk). This is made from bamboo pulp that is processed and regenerated into fibres, creating a fabric with a similarly soft, fluid feel.
Each product is clearly labelled as either silk or bamboo silk on our product pages, so you always know exactly what you’re choosing.
Why we love silk:
- Naturally breathable and temperature-regulating
- Soft and lightweight with a fluid drape
- Biodegradable and long-lasting when cared for properly
- Luxurious without feeling heavy
Silk is at the heart of many of our pieces, chosen not only for its beauty but also for its comfort and longevity.
Satin: A Weave, Not a Fibre
Satin, on the other hand, is not a fibre; it’s a weave.
The satin weave structure creates that signature smooth, glossy surface on one side of the fabric, with a more matte finish on the other. Because satin refers to how the fabric is made, not what it’s made from, it can be created using different fibres.
This means you can have:
- Polyester satin
- Cotton satin
- Silk satin
And this is where the confusion often comes in.
So What is Silk Satin?
When you see the term “silk satin”, it simply means that the fabric is made from silk fibres and woven using a satin weave.
At Ayten Gasson, this is what we use in many of our designs — 100% silk, woven into a satin finish. The result is a fabric that combines the natural benefits of silk with the subtle sheen and fluidity of satin.
Why It Matters
Not all satin is created equal.
Synthetic satin (often polyester) may look similar at first glance, but it doesn’t offer the same breathability, softness, or sustainability as silk. It can feel less comfortable against the skin and is not biodegradable.
Choosing silk satin means choosing a fabric that is:
- Naturally breathable
- Kind to sensitive skin
- Made from a renewable fibre
- Designed to last
Our Approach at Ayten Gasson
We are passionate about using natural, responsibly sourced fabrics. Every piece is handmade in our Brighton studio using traditional techniques, with a focus on longevity and comfort.
When we say silk, we mean it. And when we say satin, we’re talking about the weave — not a synthetic shortcut.
If you ever have questions about our fabrics or how a piece is made, we’re always happy to help. Transparency is at the heart of what we do, because knowing what you’re wearing should feel just as good as wearing it.
