Key Takeaways
mulberry silk is an exceptional silk produced from the cocoons of the mulberry bombyx. Renowned for its finesse, shine and softness, it is used in the making of luxury clothing, lingerie and accessories as well as in high-end bedding.
Thanks to its artisanal manufacturing process preserving all the natural qualities of silk, mulberry silk offers numerous benefits for the skin and hair. This is why it is found in silk sleep masks, pillowcases or silk bonnets.
The discovery of mulberry silk
According to legend, the discovery of silk dates back to the Chinese empress Xi Ling Shi around 2600 BC.
While she was having tea in the shade of a mulberry tree, a cocoon fell into her cup. By wanting to remove it, the empress would then have unwound the first silk thread!
If this story is more of a legend, it is established that silk was discovered in China nearly 5000 years ago. The technique of breeding silkworms and making silk was kept secret by the Chinese for centuries.
It was not until the 6th century that silk manufacturing spread along the Silk Road to the Mediterranean basin. Silk then became a luxury commodity in the West.
Today, China remains the world's leading producer of silk. But there are also producers in India, Japan, Thailand and Brazil.
Also read: What are the different types of silk ?
The fascinating history of mulberry silk
Behind each meter of silk hides a fascinating story combining age-old tradition and innovation.
It all starts with the breeding of silkworms which requires know-how passed down from generation to generation. The worms are fed with mulberry leaves harvested every day. Once mature, in a few days they weave a silk cocoon from a continuous thread that can be up to 1000 m long!
These cocoons are then sorted according to their quality before being immersed in hot water to soften the secretion used to fix the thread (the sandstone). We then obtain skeins of raw silk (greige) which are packaged in bales to be sent to the mills.
Silk is a noble material that transcends the ages. Its exceptional shine and softness continue to fascinate stylists and consumers.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®
It is in these factories that the silk transformation will take place. The cocoons are unwound and the threads assembled to produce a silk thread ready to be woven. The silk can then be dyed with natural dyes and woven in different weaves to obtain the silk fabrics we know.
Also read: All you need to know about silk satin
The process of making mulberry silk
The manufacture of mulberry silk requires meticulous work at each stage of the process to preserve the exceptional qualities of this natural fiber.
Cocoons: the beginning of the process
It all starts with the breeding of silkworms which produce the precious cocoons. The Bombyx mori is a butterfly that only lives a few days, long enough to mate and lay eggs. Its larva, the silkworm, will grow up by feeding exclusively on mulberry leaves.
Once it reaches maturity after a month, the silkworm will weave a cocoon around itself by secreting fibroin. This silk thread is on average 1000 m long! The cocoon allows the worm to transform into a chrysalis before becoming a butterfly.
From raw silk to finished silk
The harvested cocoons are sorted according to their quality. Only the most beautiful cocoons will produce the best silk. They are then immersed in hot water to soften the secretion used to fix the thread (the sandstone). We then obtain skeins of raw silk ready to be spun.
The raw silk is then transported to the mills where the cocoons are unwound and assembled. This operation allows you to obtain silk thread used on weaving or knitting looms.
Before weaving, silk can be dyed with natural dyes to obtain the desired shade. The weaving will give the famous silk fabric which is found in clothing, household linens and luxury accessories.
The role of silkworms in production
Silkworm breeding is crucial in the production of silk. Indeed, it is during its transformation into a chrysalis that the worm secretes fibroin which forms the silk thread.
The Bombyx mori is the only species capable of producing silk thread of such length and fineness. Its exclusive diet based on mulberry leaves will also give exceptional qualities to the silk.
The quality and grades of silk
Depending on the fineness of the thread, the regularity and the absence of defects, mulberry silk is classified into different grades.
The finest threads produce wild silk, Tussah silk or Shantung silk among the most prized. Next come organsin, crepe de chine or charmeuse depending on the type of weaving.
The shine and softness of the silk also depend on the momme test which measures the weight of the thread. The higher the momme, the finer the silk!
Also read: Silk Chiffon: Luxury and Lightness
The unexpected benefits of mulberry silk
In addition to its exceptional aesthetic qualities, mulberry silk has many unsuspected benefits.
First of all, it is a hypoallergenic fiber suitable for the most sensitive skin. Its unique molecular structure allows it to regulate temperature and humidity.
It thus promotes blood circulation and avoids water retention, limiting the appearance of dark circles, bags and fine lines. Silk is also beneficial for relieving skin problems such as acne, eczema or psoriasis.
For hair, mulberry silk is a real anti-friction shield. Wrapped in silk, your hair will be protected from friction, limiting breakage and split ends. Goodbye breaking points!
Why choose mulberry silk for your hair ?
Increasingly popular, mulberry silk is establishing itself as the luxurious alternative to cotton or synthetic accessories to enhance your hair.
Benefits for different hair types
Thanks to its extreme softness and anti-friction properties, mulberry silk is suitable for all hair types.
Fine hair will gain volume and benefit from optimal hydration while curly hair will be protected from knots.As for colored or damaged hair, it will regain strength and shine!
How to choose the best silk bonnet for your hair ?
Choose high quality mulberry silk, with a high momme for extreme softness.
Opt for a wrap-around model that fits your length well, like the twist beanie. Prefer light colors such as off-white or nude which will not stain.
To perfect your silk ritual, also choose a night mask or a matching pillowcase!
At The Oversized Hoodie®, we recommend choosing your silk accessories as carefully as your clothes. In addition to aesthetics, check the certifications guaranteeing the high quality and safety of the textile. like the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification for example.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®
User reviews and testimonials
Many users are won over by the benefits of mulberry silk for their hair. They show softer, shiny and voluminous hair thanks to the regular use of silk caps and masks.
Mulberry silk in the world of sleep
In addition to hair accessories, mulberry silk can be found in our bedrooms for an optimal night's sleep. It is found in night masks, pillowcases and even high-end bed sheets.
Silk pillowcases: affordable luxury ?
Long reserved for bedding in large hotels, silk pillowcases are becoming more popular. Count between 40 and 100 euros for a mulberry silk pillowcase depending on the size, weave and finish.
A profitable investment in the long term when you know that a silk pillowcase can last up to 15 years compared to 2 to 3 years for a classic pillowcase!
The silk night mask delicately envelops your face, limiting friction. Your skin is thus protected and hydrated all night.
Silk helps fight wrinkles, dark circles and redness thanks to its anti-aging properties. The mulberry silk mask is a natural and non-aggressive solution suitable even for sensitive skin.
Silk sheet and pillow cover: the choice of comfort
The silk bedding combines glamor and comfort for restful nights. Soft like cashmere, the silk sheet regulates the temperature to prevent you from sweating too much.
As for the cover, it adapts perfectly to the shape of your pillow, offering an extremely pleasant silky touch. A luxury accessible from 150 euros.
Where to buy mulberry silk ?
Mulberry silk was previously difficult to find in Europe. Today, many brands offer a wide range of quality mulberry silk products.
The French brand The Oversized Hoodie® 🇫🇷 is famous for its textile expertise, particularly its collection of high-end, 100% natural mulberry silk products certified Oeko-Tex®Standard 100. Free from toxic and chemical substances, and ecological, the silk pillowcase, sleep mask and silk sheets collections are distinguished by their incomparable softness and their excellent value for money, providing an unrivaled feeling of comfort.
How to maintain your mulberry silk ?
Washing and caring for mulberry silk clothing
Follow the same recommendations as for the pillowcase. Wash at 30° maximum, short and delicate cycle with a special silk detergent.
Air dry flat inside out. Iron with a very gentle iron without steam if necessary.
When ironing delicate garments such as a dress, shirt or silk scarf, use a fine cloth between the fabric and the iron.
Washing and caring for silk sleep masks
Wash your sleep mask by hand in cold water with mild soap or silk detergent.
Rinse thoroughly then dry flat, without wringing, and in the shade to maintain the elasticity of the fabric.
Washing and care of silk night caps
Same process as for the sleeping mask. Hand wash in cold water with special silk soap.
Rinse then dry flat without exposing to the sun to preserve the shine of the silk.
The place of mulberry silk in the textile industry
Silk was once reserved for an elite. Today mulberry silk is becoming more popular and inspiring the greatest creators.
Mulberry silk by the meter: an option for designers
Increasingly popular with stylists, mulberry silk can now be purchased by the meter in high-end haberdasheries and fabric workshops.
It seduces with its exceptional finesse and fluidity which make it the ideal material for dresses, blouses and sophisticated accessories (ties, scarves, etc.).
Silk versus other fabrics
Compared to other noble materials, mulberry silk remains one step ahead. Lighter and softer than cashmere or wool, it does not pill unlike linen.
Its resistance and its ability to retain heat even allow it to compete with certain fabrics or synthetic silks. An exception in the textile world
Conclusion
In conclusion, mulberry silk has established itself as THE absolute reference in terms of luxury and comfort.
Its artisanal manufacturing using ancestral know-how gives it unique qualities that appeal to the greatest couturiers.
Known for its extreme softness and its benefits on the skin, mulberry silk is also invading our bedrooms. We can only succumb to its charms!
Don't hesitate to adopt it in your wardrobe or your bedding to experience an unrivaled touch.
| Silk Type | Origin | Properties | Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mulberry Silk | Cocoons of the Mulberry Bombyx | Finesse, shine, softness | Clothing, lingerie, bedding, accessories |
| Benefits for Skin and Hair | Hypoallergenic | Prevents dark circles, bags, fine lines | Night masks, pillowcases, hats |
| Maintenance | Gentle wash at 30°C | Dry flat, iron gently | Silk clothing, bedding, accessories |
| Quality and Grades | Classification by fineness and absence of defects | Wild silk, Tussah, Shantung, etc. | Determined by mother test |
| Purchase and Price | Specialized brands, high-end haberdashery | 100% natural quality, Oeko-Tex certified® | Pillowcases, night masks, sheets |
FAQ
What is the best pillowcase ?
The best pillowcase is undoubtedly the mulberry silk case. Thanks to its extreme softness, its natural breathing and its silky touch, the mulberry silk pillowcase provides an unrivaled feeling of comfort for a restful sleep. In addition to offering a good night's sleep, it is hypoallergenic and is even suitable for sensitive skin.
What type of silk for hair ?
For hair, we recommend that you opt for mulberry silk, renowned for its great softness and its anti-friction properties. This natural fiber will delicately wrap your lengths, limiting knots and breakage points.
You can adopt it in the form of hats, masks, pillowcases or even silk scarves to protect your hair in style!
What is the best silk in the world ?
The best silk in the world is undoubtedly mulberry silk, also called wild silk. Produced from the cocoons of the bombyx fed exclusively on mulberry leaves, it is distinguished by its incomparable shine and softness.
Woven using ancestral techniques, mulberry silk has retained all its exceptional qualities over the centuries. A noble material par excellence!
What are the different types of silk ?
There are many types of silk, the main ones being:
- Mulberry silk
- Tussah silk
- Shantung silk
- Organsin
- Crêpe de Chine
- The charmer
- The Bourette
- The Dupion
- Jacquard
- The rag
These silks are distinguished by their manufacturing process, their weaving pattern, their more or less soft feel, their shiny or matte appearance. The most luxurious remains mulberry silk with its incomparable silky touch.
Where to buy mulberry silk ?
You can buy mulberry silk in high-end haberdasheries and fabric workshops. For finished products such as bedding or clothing, many brands now offer ranges in mulberry silk 100% natural.
We recommend the brand The Oversized Hoodie®, a pioneer in high-quality 100% mulberry silk products . Their collection also includes hypoallergenic mulberry silk sheets, pillowcases and sleep masks.
How to wash mulberry silk ?
To wash mulberry silk, wash by hand or in a special silk laundry machine. Wash at 30° maximum on a short, delicate cycle, without spinning.
Dry flat, in the open air, inside out and in the shade to preserve the shine of the silk. Very gentle ironing may be necessary depending on the fabric.
Updated February 9, 2024
