Difference between silk and wild silk: everything you need to know

Introduction

When it comes to luxury textiles, silk and wild silk are among the most popular materials. However, although they share similarities, these two types of silk have distinct characteristics.

In this article, we will explore in detail the differences between silk and wild silk, from their origins to their properties to their uses. Whether you are a fashion enthusiast, a creator or simply curious to learn more about these exceptional fabrics, you will find all the necessary information here to make an informed choice.

Also read: What are the different types of silk ?

Origins and Manufacturing

Natural mulberry silk

natural silk is obtained from the breeding of the Bombyx mori, commonly known as mulberry silkworm. These worms are fed exclusively on the leaves of white mulberry (Morus alba), which gives the silk its exceptional quality.

Once their growth is complete, the worms weave a cocoon of silk, which is then unwound to obtain a long, continuous thread. This meticulous process, perfected over the centuries, produces silk of great fineness and incomparable shine.

Wild tussah silk

Unlike mulberry silk, wild silk comes from wild silkworms, mainly of the species Antheraea paphia, called tussah silkworm. These worms feed on oak or jamun leaves and produce silk with thicker fibers and irregular.

The cocoons are harvested in their natural habitat, after the butterflies have left them. This more environmentally friendly method gives wild silk an authentic and rustic character.

Process of obtaining threads

Once the cocoons are harvested, they are immersed in hot water to soften the sericin, a protein that holds the fibers together.The yarns are then delicately unwound, then undergo various stages of transformation such as clearing, doubling and milling .

For wild silk, the process is similar, but the threads obtained are thicker and irregular due to the nature of the cocoons. Silk and wild silk threads are finally woven or knitted to create fabrics with unique properties.

As a responsible brand, The Oversized Hoodie® is committed to promoting sustainable and ethical practices throughout our silk supply chain. We work closely with producers who share our values, in order to offer our customers quality products that respect the environment and animal welfare.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®

Also read: Why is silk expensive ?

Fabric Characteristics

Look and feel

To the touch, silk is distinguished by its incomparable softness, its lightness and its smooth and shiny appearance. It has a fluid drape and a fine texture and regular. On the other hand, wild silk has a more rustic texture, with a certain irregularity in the thickness of the threads.

Its touch is firmer and its more matte appearance and textured, with a subtle shine. These differences give each type of silk a unique character and adapted to different uses.

Properties and qualities

silk and wild silk share certain remarkable properties. Both are breathable, hypoallergenic and have excellent thermal regulation. They absorb moisture without feeling damp on the skin.

Silk is renowned for its strength and durability, lasting for decades with proper care. Wild silk, although slightly less resistant, nevertheless offers good longevity. The two materials are also appreciated for their softness and their comfort to wear.

Visual differences

To the naked eye, silk is distinguished by its smooth appearance, uniform and shiny. It reflects light evenly, creating shimmering reflections. The colors are vivid and dazzling, with unrivaled depth and richness.

The wild silk, for its part, has a more irregular surface and textured, with a more discreet shine. Its rustic appearance gives it an authentic and natural charm. The colors are more soft and nuanced, with subtle variations that add character to the fabric.

Also read: Silk or cotton satin ?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of each material ?

Sustainability

silk is recognized for its great strength and its exceptional durability.With proper maintenance, it can survive the decades without losing its beauty.

The wild silk, although slightly less robust, also offers good longevity. However, it may be more susceptible to abrasion and require more precautions when using and cleaning.

Resistance

Thanks to its long and regular fibers, silk has excellent resistance to traction and wear. It is less subject to deformations and persistent creases than other materials. wild silk, with its shorter fibers and irregular, offers good resistance but can be more sensitive repeated friction.

Maintenance

The maintenance of silk and wild silk requires certain precautions to preserve their beauty and durability. It is recommended to wash them by hand or in a machine on a delicate cycle, with a mild detergent special for silk. Drying must be done flat, away from direct sunlight.

The Ironing is done at low temperature, using a pattemouille to avoid shine. Since wild silk is more sensitive, it is best to wash it by hand and handle it with even more gentleness.

Price

The price is an aspect that significantly differentiates silk and wild silk. Silk, due to its more complex and controlled production process, is generally more expensive. The superior quality of its fibers and its rarity make it a sought-after luxury product.

Wild silk, resulting from a more natural and less controlled process, is often less expensive than traditional silk. Its price nevertheless remains high compared to other materials, due to its limited production and its unique qualities.

Also read: What are the advantages and disadvantages of silk ?

How to recognize silk and wild silk ?

To distinguishsilk from wild silk, several aspects must be taken into account. First, check the tag of the garment or item. The mention "100% silk" indicates that it is mulberry silk, while "wild silk" or "tussah" designates wild silk.

To the touch, silk is smoother, soft and fluid, while wild silk has a rougher texture and irregular. Visually, silk has a shiny appearance and uniform, while wild silk is more matte and textured.

In case of doubt, there are simple tests to carry out, such as the fire test (silk burns slowly in a ball and gives off the smell of burning hair) or the touch test (crunch the fabric in your hand, the silk should quickly regain its smooth appearance, unlike wild silk which retains folds).

At The Oversized Hoodie®, we attach great importance to the quality of our dyes. We carefully select our dyes to ensure vibrant, long-lasting colors on our silk products, while maintaining high standards of environmental friendliness.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®

Also read: How to recognize real natural silk ?

Uses and Maintenance

Main uses

silk and wild silk are used in many areas, including fashion, interior decoration and furniture. In clothing, they are found in dresses, shirts, scarves, scarves, ties and others refined clothing. Their softness, their fluid drape and their luxurious appearance make them materials of choice for formal outfits and special occasions.

Also read: What silk for a scarf ?

Washing and precautions

The maintenance of silk and wild silk requires some precautions to preserve their beauty and longevity. It is recommended to hand wash in cold or lukewarm water, with a mild detergent special for silk.

Avoid sudden movements that could damage the fibers. Drying must be done flat, on a towel, avoiding direct exposure to the sun which could alter the colors.

If ironing is necessary, use a low temperature and a pattemouille to avoid shine. For wild silk, machine washing on a delicate cycle in a protective net may be suitable, but hand washing is preferable.

In all cases, scrupulously follow the care instructions on the label to guarantee the longevity of your silk or wild silk items.

Value and prestige of silks

Beyond their intrinsic qualities, silk and wild silk carry symbolic value and 'a certain prestige. For centuries, they have been associated with luxury, nobility and elegance.

Their rich history, their meticulous production and their rarity make them exceptional materials, prized by the big houses sewing and lovers of beautiful fabrics. Owning and wearing silk or wild silk is often seen as a sign of refinement and distinction.

Their value is not limited to their price, but also encompasses all the cultural heritage and the artisanal know-how that surround them.

Conclusion

silk and wild silk are two noble materials which are distinguished by their origins, their characteristics and their aspects.

• Silk, produced by breeding the mulberry silkworm, is renowned for its softness, its brilliance and its regularity.
• Wild silk, coming from wild silkworms like tussah, is characterized by its irregular texture, its natural appearance and its authentic charm.

Each one has strengths and particularities which will guide your choice according to your preferences and the use that you want to make some.

Whatever your preference, these two exceptional silks will bring a touch of refinement and elegance to your wardrobe or your interior.

Taking care of these precious materials with the appropriate precautions will allow you to enjoy them over the long term and pass on their beauty and their history over the years .

FAQ

Why choose wild silk ?

Wild silk, also called Tussah silk, is an interesting alternative to classic mulberry silk. It comes from wild silkworms which feed exclusively on oak leaves. Wild silk enhances the natural side of silk by playing on an irregular and more raw appearance. Less silky and slightly grainy, it is relatively durable and often used for decoration and upholstery. Wild silk brings a touch of originality and is increasingly appreciated in the fashion world.

What is the best quality of silk ?

There are different names for silk, reflecting their quality. first quality raw silk is considered the best, followed by second quality silk, then third quality silk bourette. Mulberry silk, sourced from domestic silkworms fed on mulberry leaves, is renowned for its fineness, length and softness. It is very popular for making high-end clothing textiles.

How to recognize natural silk ?

To distinguish natural silk from synthetic silk, several tests can be carried out. By exposing silk to light, one can observe iridescent and shimmering reflections, unique to pure silk, while a synthetic silk product will produce white reflections. Natural silk also has an incomparable luster and a certain elasticity compared to viscose. To the touch, mulberry silk is particularly smooth and supple.

What is the most beautiful silk ?

Mulberry silk, particularly charmeuse silk, is often considered the most beautiful. Light and with natural elasticity, it has a shiny satin side and another matte side. Charmeuse silk is popular for making dresses, shirts and high-end bedding. Its elegant drape and subtle reflections make it a fabric of choice for refined creations.

How does silk retain colors ?

Silk has the ability to easily absorb moisture as well as dyes, which makes it easier to dye. Silk fibers provide excellent pigment fixation, providing vibrant, long-lasting colors. Certain weaves, such as silk taffeta, can have multiple reflections, especially if the threads used in the warp are of a different color from the weft threads. This changing aspect highlights the richness of the shades of silk.

Is the production of silk (or wild silk) respectful of the environment and animals ?

Traditional silk production raises ethical questions, as it usually involves the death of silkworms during the extraction of threads from cocoons. However, there are more respectful alternatives, such as harvesting cocoons after the butterflies have naturally emerged. Spider silk, although rarer, is also considered a cruelty-free option. As for the environmental impact, sericulture can be practiced in an artisanal and local manner, thus limiting the carbon footprint linked to transport.

Are there ethical and eco-responsible alternatives to silk and wild silk ?

For those who wish to avoid silk for ethical reasons, there are synthetic alternatives that mimic its look and feel, such as some polyester satins. However, these options do not have the same durability and thermal regulation qualities as natural silk. Other natural fibers, such as cotton or linen, can offer a more environmentally friendly alternative, although with different properties. The choice will depend on each person's priorities in terms of aesthetics, comfort and respect for the environment and animals.