What Is Silk Dupioni?

Silk dupioni is a crisp, lustrous fabric distinguished by its natural slubs—irregular thick threads that give it texture and character. It’s made from double cocoons, when two silkworms spin so closely that their filaments tangle and cannot be reeled smoothly.

The resulting yarn is woven into a plain weave that produces a structured silk with a subtle sheen and distinctive surface. Unlike smooth silks, dupioni’s beauty lies in these irregularities, making it a favorite for formalwear, jackets, and décor with a touch of natural elegance.

Marcy’s Secret for Softening Silk Dupioni

When I want to take the shine down and give silk dupioni a more relaxed, casual look, I start by serging the raw edges of the full length of fabric. Then I wash it in the machine with just a touch of soap and tumble it dry on medium heat.

Pulled from the dryer while still warm, the silk emerges softened, with a gentle matte finish and a subtle crinkle that feels more like upscale ready-to-wear than formalwear. This simple laundering trick works beautifully on both silk dupioni and taffeta—and in fact, I prefer them after they’ve been washed.