Article: Silk & Satin: How to Wear Them and How to Care for Them
Silk & Satin: How to Wear Them and How to Care for Them
Some materials are chosen for practicality. Others are chosen for how they make you feel. Silk and satin are firmly the latter. With their smooth surface and soft, luminous sheen, they bring a sense of occasion to even the simplest silhouette. This season they are two of our featured materials, across pumps, heels, sandals and evening bags.
Silk and Satin: What Is the Difference?
The two are often spoken of together, and for good reason. Silk is a natural fibre, long prized for its softness and gentle lustre. Satin is defined by its weave rather than its fibre. The threads are woven so that more of them sit on the surface, which creates a smooth, glossy finish.
In practice, they share the qualities we love most. Both have a fluid sheen that catches the light as you move, and both give colour a particular depth and richness. That soft glow is quite different from the high shine of patent or the matte texture of suede.
Why We Chose Silk and Satin This Season
Spring brings a full calendar of occasions, and silk and satin were made for them. They feel considered without feeling overdone. They pair beautifully with slip dresses and silk separates, and they add polish to tailoring. Even a pared-back outfit feels finished with a silk or satin heel beneath it.
The Colours
Gold Silk
Gold silk is our warm metallic of the season. It is softer than our other golds and has a gentle glow that works with neutrals, black and bold colour alike.
Animal Silk
Animal print silk gives a classic print a refined finish. On silk, the print takes on a subtle sheen that makes it feel more elegant than everyday. Treat it as a neutral: it sits as easily with black as with cream or camel.
Red Satin
Red satin is the statement. Satin gives red a depth and warmth that feels confident rather than loud. Pair it with black, white or neutral tones and let the shoe lead.
Polka Dot Satin
Made for Spring Racing. Our WEN110 T-bar platform sandal comes in black with white dots and white with black dots, a playful nod to the black and white tradition of Derby Day. Complete the look with the matching NAIA Foldover Clutch, worn in the same colourway or the opposite one for contrast, and explore more race day styles in our Spring Racing Edit.
How to Clean and Care for Silk and Satin Shoes and Bags
Silk and satin are delicate and luxurious materials, and they should be handled with care. With the right attention, your pairs will keep their soft sheen for many occasions to come. Avoid water and rough surfaces. To maintain their appearance, avoid contact with water and abrasive surfaces. It is worth checking the forecast before wearing silk or satin to an outdoor event. Gently brush visible dust and debris from the surface with a clean, soft cloth.
Protect before wearing. A protectant spray made specifically for satin and silk can help the material last longer. Always spot-test it on a small area before applying it to the whole shoe. Treat stains with care, using a gentle cleaning solution made specifically for delicate materials. Apply it carefully with a damp, but not saturated, cloth or soft brush. Dry naturally. Allow shoes to air dry completely, away from direct heat and sunlight. Store in a dust bag. Store your shoes in a dust bag to protect them from sunlight, dust and other environmental hazards.
Soft, luminous and made for the season's occasions, silk and satin bring a quiet sense of luxury to every look. Cared for well, they are pieces to wear and return to season after season.
