Replies

1. 
   JunkQueen | Apr 07, 2008 08:08am | #1

   I believe Lame has metallic threads woven in with the regular threads. From the dark recesses of my mind, I seem to recall lame is derived from a French word having to do with weaving of gold and silver wire, but don't take that to the bank! Taffeta on the other hand does not have metallic threads. Tissue fabrics of either lame or taffeta are woven with very fine threads.

   Hope that is helpful.

2. 
   Teaf5 | Apr 10, 2008 12:03am | #2

   Both are lightweight, but taffeta is always crisp, why lame is metallic (actually synthetic metallic nowadays) and much softer. A gathered skirt of tissue taffeta will billow, but one of tissue lame will drape.

   Neither is particularly comfortable; taffeta is stiff and hot, while the metallic threads can be very itchy and hot, so they're best for costumes or for dramatic evening wear or possibly for embellishments or accessories.