The name “broadcloth” comes from the fact that, historically, the broadcloth fabric was manufactured or woven in widths that is wider than the more common 29 inches.
A broadcloth dress shirt tend to have a higher thread count than other fabrics, making the broadcloth one of the more preferred fabrics for dress shirts. The benefit of having a higher thread count is the fabric will feel softer and more luxurious when you touch it. By simply running your hand over the broadcloth material, you will instantly get a feel for how intricate the broadcloth fabric is. Therefore, the broadcloth is often associated with being high in quality. Due to its higher thread count, quality and its more luxurious feel, the broadcloth fabric is generally more expensive compared to other fabric types.
Generally, worsted and woolen broadcloth fabrics have a sheen finish, making them especially popular among shirt aficionados. When you wear a dress shirt made of high quality broadcloth fabric, it will feel as if a piece of velvet is draped over your body. The broadcloth fabric is tightly woven and has fine ribs woven into it which helps to add to the broadcloth’s luxurious finish. The broadcloth fabric can be woven from various a mixture of fibers and blends, and may also come in lighter or heavier weights. However, in general, broadcloth tend to be slightly heavier than other cloth weaves. The broadcloth’s plain shirt weave with its smooth finish makes it a perfect material for creating custom dress shirts.
The broadcloth fabric also provide greater warmth, especially when worn under a suit jacket, blazer or sweater. So you may not be surprised to know that broadcloth dress shirts are quite popular in countries with cooler weather. Broadcloth dress shirts are especially suited to the spring and autumn seasons. The high quality broadcloth is a favorite in the textile world which appreciates its high quality and durable characteristics. The broadcloth unique properties makes it an ideal material for dress shirts, bed sheets and all sorts of upholstery.
