What Is Net Fabric?

Net fabric is an open-weave textile characterised by visible holes between the yarns, creating a mesh-like structure. Unlike accidentally sheer fabrics, net is intentionally constructed to be see-through, making it ideal for layering, overlays, and serving as a canvas for embroidery.

The construction of net involves yarns that are knotted or looped at intersections, creating a stable structure despite the open weave. This makes net surprisingly durable for its delicate appearance.

Key Characteristics of Net

• Open mesh structure: Intentionally visible holes create the distinctive look
• Lightweight: Adds minimal weight despite visual impact
• Perfect for layering: Designed to be worn over other fabrics
• Excellent embroidery canvas: The structure supports heavy embellishment
• Available in various densities: From very open to almost opaque meshes
• Versatile: Can be crisp or soft depending on the type

Regular Net vs Khadi Net: Understanding the Difference

One of the most common questions in Pakistani fashion is about the difference between regular net and khadi net. Let's clarify:

Regular Net

Standard net has a uniform, machine-made appearance with consistent hole sizes and smooth yarn. It can be made from nylon, polyester, or silk.

Appearance: Even, uniform mesh; can be shiny or matte

Feel: Can range from stiff to soft depending on fibre content

Best for: General party wear, underlayers, less expensive garments

Khadi Net (Also Called Khaadi Net or Khaddi Net)

Khadi net is woven with slightly irregular, hand-spun style yarns that give it a more organic, textured appearance. Despite its name suggesting hand-woven origins, modern khadi net is typically machine-made to mimic traditional khadi (hand-spun) characteristics.

Appearance: Subtle irregularities, slightly textured, more natural look

Feel: Softer, more fluid drape than regular net

Best for: High-end bridal wear, luxury party wear, statement pieces

Quick Comparison

Why Khadi Net is Preferred for Bridal Wear

Khadi net has become the preferred choice for luxury Pakistani bridal wear for several reasons:

• The soft texture is more comfortable for long wear
• The slight irregularity looks more expensive and artisanal
• It complements hand embroidery better than uniform net
• The drape is more flattering and elegant
• It photographs beautifully without looking "plastic"

Types of Net Fabric

1. Soft Net (Tulle)

Fine, lightweight net with very small holes. Soft and flowy, often used for multiple layered looks.

Best for: Ball gown-style lehengas, ruffles, layered skirts, veils

2. Stiff Net (Crinoline Net)

Net with added sizing that makes it hold shape. Used for creating volume underneath garments.

Best for: Underskirts, structure layers, volume creation

3. Embroidered Net

Net fabric that comes pre-embroidered with thread work, sequins, beads, or combinations. Available in varying densities from scattered motifs to heavy coverage.

Best for: Main garment panels, dupattas, overlays

4. Khadi Net / Khaddi Net

Textured net with slightly irregular weave that mimics hand-spun aesthetics. Premium choice for bridal wear.

Best for: Luxury bridal wear, high-end party wear, designer pieces

5. Crystal Net

Net with a subtle shimmer, achieved through metallic or iridescent threads woven into the mesh.

Best for: Evening wear, glamorous occasions, statement pieces

6. Silk Net

Net woven from silk fibres, offering the most luxurious hand feel and natural lustre.

Best for: High-end bridal, heirloom pieces, luxury occasions

7. Nylon/Polyester Net

Synthetic net that's durable and affordable. Can vary significantly in quality.

Best for: Budget-friendly options, children's wear, casual party outfits

8. Point d'Esprit Net

Net with small, regularly spaced dots woven into the mesh, creating a decorative effect.

Best for: Romantic styling, vintage-inspired looks, dupattas

Pros and Cons of Net Fabric

✅ Advantages of Net

1. Perfect Embroidery Canvas

Net's open weave provides excellent support for embroidery. The structure anchors stitches while allowing intricate designs to "float" visually, creating depth and dimension.

2. Creates Visual Depth

When layered over solid colours or other fabrics, net creates beautiful depth and dimension that single-layer fabrics can't achieve.

3. Lightweight Despite Heavy Embroidery

Even heavily embroidered net remains lighter than similarly decorated solid fabrics, making it more comfortable for extended wear.

4. Breathable

The open weave allows air circulation, making net more comfortable in warm conditions than many formal fabrics.

5. Versatile Styling

Net can be gathered, layered, ruffled, or draped smoothly, offering tremendous styling flexibility.

6. Romantic Aesthetic

There's something inherently romantic and bridal about net's sheer, ethereal quality that makes it perennially popular for wedding wear.

7. Good Value

Net is generally more affordable than fabrics like silk or organza, making it accessible for various budgets.

❌ Disadvantages of Net

1. Requires Lining

Net is sheer by nature and almost always requires an underlayer for coverage, adding to construction complexity and cost.

2. Snags Easily

The open weave is vulnerable to catching on jewellery, rough surfaces, and even fingernails.

3. Can Feel Scratchy

Lower quality or synthetic net can be rough against the skin. Quality matters significantly with net.

4. Shows Wear

Unlike denser fabrics that can hide minor damage, net shows every snag, pull, and hole.

5. Difficult to Repair

Once damaged, net is challenging to repair invisibly. Prevention is essential.

6. Static Issues

Synthetic net is prone to static cling, especially in dry weather.

7. Variable Quality

The difference between cheap and quality net is dramatic. Budget net can look and feel unpleasant.

Best Uses for Net in Pakistani Fashion

🌟 Ideal Applications

Embroidered Lehenga Skirts

Net lehengas are wedding staples. The fabric supports heavy embroidery while maintaining a lighter weight than silk, and creates beautiful movement.

Dupattas

Embroidered net dupattas are perhaps the most versatile pieces in Pakistani fashion—they elevate simple outfits and complete formal ensembles.

Anarkali Gowns

The layered, flowing silhouette of an anarkali is perfectly suited to net's ethereal quality.

Overlays and Jackets

Sheer net overlays add interest and formality to outfits without overwhelming.

Sleeves

Net sleeves—whether full, bell, or three-quarter—add elegance while keeping arms cool.

Back Panels

Net back panels create interest from behind while maintaining modesty with embroidery coverage.

Wedding Events Best Suited for Net

• Baraat: Heavily embroidered net lehengas are bridal classics
• Walima: Net gowns and anarkalis photograph beautifully
• Nikah: Elegant net ensembles in whites and pastels
• Mehndi: Lighter net pieces work well for the casual festivity
• As a Guest: Net outfits strike the right balance of formal without overshadowing the bride

What to Avoid with Net Fabric

❌ Avoid Rough Handling

Net is delicate despite appearances. Never pull, tug, or handle roughly. Hold carefully and dress gently.

❌ Don't Skip the Underlayer

Net must be properly lined. Without appropriate lining, the outfit will look unfinished and may be immodest.

❌ Keep Away from Jewellery During Dressing

Put on jewellery after the outfit is in place, or cover the outfit while adding jewellery. Rings and bangles are especially dangerous to net.

❌ Avoid Machine Washing

The agitation can damage embroidery, distort the mesh, and cause irreversible snagging.

❌ Don't Iron Directly

Heat can melt synthetic net or damage embroidery. Always use a pressing cloth or steam.

❌ Avoid Sitting on Rough Surfaces

Wicker chairs, rough wooden benches, and textured surfaces can snag net. Check seating before sitting.

❌ Don't Store Compressed

Crushing net can distort the mesh and create permanent marks. Store with adequate space.

❌ Keep Away from Velcro

Velcro is net's nemesis. Even brief contact can cause significant damage.

How to Clean and Care for Net Fabric

🧹 Regular Maintenance

After Each Wear:

1. Inspect carefully for any snags or loose threads
2. Air out before storing to release moisture and odours
3. Store immediately to prevent accidental damage

🧼 Cleaning Methods

Option 1: Professional Dry Cleaning (Recommended)

For embroidered or embellished net pieces, professional cleaning is always safest. The cleaner can assess the specific embroidery type and clean accordingly.

Option 2: Very Gentle Hand Washing (Plain or Lightly Embellished Only)

1. Use cool water and a tiny amount of mild detergent
2. Swish very gently—never rub, twist, or agitate
3. Rinse thoroughly in cool, clean water
4. Support the weight when removing from water—don't let it hang heavy
5. Lay flat on a clean towel to dry; never hang wet net

Spot Cleaning

For small marks, dab gently with a damp cloth. Test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first.

📦 Storage

Best Practices:

• Hang on a padded hanger if possible, or fold with generous acid-free tissue paper
• Never compress or stuff in tight spaces
• Store in breathable garment bags, never plastic
• Keep embroidered sections face-up or with tissue paper protection
• Store separately from items that could snag (sequined garments, rough textiles)

🔧 Removing Wrinkles

Steaming (Best Method)

Hold a steamer at least 8 inches from the fabric, working carefully around embroidery. The steam will relax net without heat damage.

Low-Heat Iron (Careful)

1. Set iron to the lowest setting
2. Place a clean white cotton cloth over the net
3. Press very lightly and briefly
4. Test on an inconspicuous area first

⚠️ Dealing with Snags

If you notice a snag:

1. Don't pull: This will make it worse
2. Gently ease any caught threads back into place with a fine needle or pin
3. For loose threads: Secure with a tiny dot of clear fabric glue on the wrong side
4. For significant damage: Consult a professional tailor who works with delicate fabrics

Frequently Asked Questions About Net Fabric