What Is the Difference Between Brocade and Jacquard Fabric?

If you’ve ever walked through a fabric market or shopped for ethnic wear, you’ve likely come across rich textiles with raised patterns and intricate designs. Some are labeled “Jacquard.” Others say “Brocade.” At a glance, they may look similar. But they’re not the same.

Knowing the difference can help you make better buying decisions, especially when you're choosing fabrics for special occasions, designer outfits, or traditional wear.

Let’s break it down simply so you always know what you’re picking.

What is Jacquard Fabric?

Jacquard fabric refers to any textile woven on a Jacquard loom that creates complex patterns directly into the fabric. These patterns aren’t printed or embroidered — they're woven. This gives the fabric a textured, raised look that feels rich and detailed.

The name comes from the Jacquard loom, invented in the 1800s by Joseph Marie Jacquard. This loom allowed detailed patterns to be created automatically using punch cards, a major shift in fabric weaving.

You can find jacquard in cotton, silk, polyester, and even wool. It’s used in sarees, suits, upholstery, and more.

When you wear a jacquard fabric dress, you’re wearing something crafted with attention to detail and depth.

What is Brocade Fabric?

Brocade is a type of jacquard fabric. But it stands out because of its decorative, often metallic look.

It typically features floral or paisley designs, and you’ll notice that the designs seem to sit on top of the fabric. This effect comes from the use of extra weft threads — often gold or silver-colored  to add more texture and richness.

Traditionally made with silk, modern brocade can also be woven with synthetic fibers for affordability.

If you’ve ever worn brocade Banarasi fabric, you’ve felt the weight and luxury. It's thick, ornate, and usually saved for grand occasions.

Key Differences Between Brocade and Jacquard

While brocade is technically a jacquard weave, not all jacquard is brocade. Here’s a simple table to make the difference clear:

Feature	Jacquard Fabric	Brocade Fabric
Weave Type	Pattern woven into the fabric	Pattern woven with extra weft threads
Look	Subtle texture and design	Rich, bold, and often metallic
Weight	Can be light to medium	Usually heavy and thick
Fabric Base	Cotton, silk, polyester, blends	Mostly silk or silk-blends
Common Uses	Everyday wear, upholstery, fusion outfits	Wedding wear, traditional sarees
Shine/Gloss	Depends on yarn	Often has gold or silver shine
Price Range	Usually affordable	Often more expensive

How to Identify Each Fabric

If you’re in a shop and not sure which is which, here’s what to check:

1. Touch and Feel

• Jacquard usually feels lighter and more flexible.
• Brocade feels thick, heavy, and slightly stiff due to extra threads.

2. Visual Detail

• Jacquard designs are part of the fabric but not too shiny.
• Brocade designs often sparkle due to metallic yarns.

3. Backside of Fabric

• Flip it over. Jacquard’s back shows the reverse of the design but remains neat.
• Brocade has loose threads that create the raised pattern on top.

When to Choose Brocade vs. Jacquard

Choose Jacquard When:

• You want breathable fabric for daily or casual wear
• You prefer subtle patterns over flashy ones
• You need movement-friendly outfits like kurtis, fusion sets, or skirts

Choose Brocade When:

• You’re dressing for a wedding, reception, or festive occasion
• You want an outfit that feels rich and traditional
• You’re making lehengas, sarees, or sherwanis

Need an ethnic piece that stands out but still feels comfortable? A Banarasi jacquard fabric outfit blends both tradition and ease.

Sustainability & Maintenance

Both jacquard and brocade fabrics require care, but brocade often needs more attention.

Jacquard

• Wash gently if it’s cotton-based
• Avoid harsh scrubbing or wringing
• Iron on low heat, preferably on the reverse side

Brocade

• Dry clean only for best results
• Store in muslin cloth to avoid snags
• Avoid folding along the design to maintain shape

From a sustainability point of view, jacquard can be more eco-friendly if made from natural fibers. Brocade’s heavy weaving and metallic yarns often use more resources.

So if you're shopping with care for the planet, look at the fabric blend and choose natural fibers where possible.

FAQs

1. Is brocade always shiny?

Most brocade has a glossy or metallic look, but it depends on the yarn used. If gold or silver threads are woven in, it will reflect more light.

2. Is jacquard more breathable than brocade?

Yes, especially if made from cotton or light silk blends. Brocade is heavier and less breathable.

3. Can I use jacquard fabric for home decor?

Absolutely. Jacquard is often used for curtains, cushions, and upholstery due to its rich look and durability.

4. Does brocade shrink after wash?

If it’s made from pure silk, there might be minor shrinkage. But brocade should always be dry cleaned to maintain its texture and size.

5. Are brocade and Banarasi fabric the same?

Banarasi is a style of weaving that often uses brocade techniques. So while not all brocade is Banarasi, most Banarasi fabrics are woven in brocade style.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between brocade and jacquard fabric helps you choose better whether you're shopping for weddings, daily wear, or festive occasions. Jacquard gives you style without fuss. It’s wearable, adaptable, and easy to pair with modern cuts. Brocade brings the wow factor. It turns heads, adds richness, and works best when you want to make a statement. If you’re planning your next outfit, know when to go light and when to go luxe. And if you're looking for high-quality traditional fabrics that merge beauty with function, Fabonique brings a curated selection just for you.

Visit our Instagram page to know more offers and explore a wide range of vibrant, skin-friendly, and quality-checked printed fabrics that are made to last.

At Fabonique, we offer more than fabric — we offer the confidence to create without worry.