Prunella (cloth)

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In clothing, prunella is a worsted fabric, sometimes also made with a blend of silk. Documented from the 17th to the 20th centuries,[1] it was produced in Norwich.[2] Prunella was used in a variety of garments such as petticoats, academic and barristers' gowns, judges' robes, coats, waistcoats, and shoes.[3][4][5]

Etymology

Prunella was named from the French prunelle, meaning sloe, for its dark colour.[3][5]

Weave

Prunella had a warp-faced weave structure.[4]

Variations

Though the cloth was initially worsted material, manufacturers sometimes used a combination with silk, or with cotton in the weft.[4]

References