Shimmer Metallic Foiled Spandex Fabric
Shimmer Metallic Foiled Spandex Fabric is a South Korea-made metallic stretch knit combining 95% polyester and 5% spandex with a reflective foil surface and 4-way stretch. At approximately 187 GSM, 280 g per linear meter and 150 cm wide, it has an opaque, fluid-to-body-skimming drape designed for evening gowns, cocktail dresses, abayas, jumpsuits, dancewear and stage costumes that need movement with a high-shine metallic finish.
The smooth foil surface catches and shifts light across folds, creating a strong reflective effect without a raised plissé texture. Its 4-way stretch makes it adaptable to fitted and performance-oriented silhouettes, while the midweight construction gives more body than ultra-light stretch jersey.
- Composition: 95% polyester, 5% spandex
- Weight: approx. 187 GSM / 280 g per linear meter — midweight
- Width: 150 cm
- Structure: knit
- Stretch: 4-way
- Coverage: opaque
- Finish: reflective metallic foil shimmer
- Origin: South Korea
- Sold by: meter, swatch or wholesale
This is a fashion and performance metallic stretch fabric, not a chlorine-resistant technical swim fabric. Repeated abrasion, pool chemicals, high heat and rough surfaces can affect metallic finishes, so test a swatch for demanding applications and follow the stored care and pre-sewing guidance before production.
Product Specifications
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What buyers ask before ordering
What makes Shimmer Metallic Foiled Spandex Fabric different from non-stretch metallic lame?
This fabric has a knit base with 4-way stretch and a smooth reflective foil surface, so it follows fitted and movement-focused silhouettes more easily than a non-stretch metallic woven.
Will the metallic finish look flat or overly costume-like?
The smooth foil surface reflects light strongly across folds and movement. The effect changes with camera angle and lighting, so ordering a swatch is the best way to judge the shine for your intended garment or event.
Is approximately 187 GSM too heavy for dancewear or stage movement?
At approximately 187 GSM it is a midweight stretch fabric rather than an ultra-light jersey. Its 4-way stretch supports movement, but test a swatch with the intended pattern ease and choreography when freedom of movement is critical.
Can I use it for an evening gown or cocktail dress?
Yes. Its opaque coverage, reflective metallic surface and 4-way stretch suit fitted, draped and body-skimming evening silhouettes when the pattern is drafted for stretch fabric.
Is this suitable for an abaya?
Yes for statement abayas, panels and modern occasionwear silhouettes where stretch and metallic shine are desired. For a very traditional lightweight flowing abaya, a fluid non-stretch woven may give a different result.
Can I use this fabric for swimwear?
It is not presented as a chlorine-resistant technical swim fabric. Pool chemicals, saltwater, sunscreen, prolonged sun exposure and abrasion can affect metallic foil finishes, so choose a purpose-built swim textile for regular swimming.
How much does 4-way stretch help with fitted garments?
It stretches in both length and width directions, which is useful for fitted dresses, jumpsuits, dancewear and stage pieces. Exact garment ease should still be tested against a swatch because stretch and recovery depend on the pattern and construction.
Can the metallic foil crack, dull or wear where the garment stretches repeatedly?
Surface metallic finishes can gradually change at high-flex or high-friction areas. Avoiding harsh laundering, high heat and rough contact helps, and a movement test on a swatch is recommended before a production run.
How does this compare with metallic plisse jersey?
This fabric has a smoother continuous foil surface rather than a raised micro-plisse texture. Choose it when you want a cleaner reflective effect; choose plisse when you want more visible surface texture and broken-up reflection.
What needle and sewing approach should I test first?
Use a stretch-appropriate or ballpoint needle and test stitch type, tension and feed on a swatch. Avoid stretching the fabric as it passes under the presser foot, and confirm seam recovery before cutting the full garment.
Do the cut edges curl like other jerseys?
Some jersey constructions can curl at cut edges, but the amount varies with the knit and direction. Test your colourway and use clips, stabilisation or an appropriate stretch finish if edge curl appears during construction.
How will the metallic colours look in photos and video?
Metallic surfaces are highly light-dependent, so camera angle, flash and event lighting can change the perceived colour and shine. Test the intended colourway under your actual lighting setup for campaign or stage use.
Will repeat orders match exactly?
Small differences can occur between dye and metallic finishing batches. For costumes, bridesmaids, performances or coordinated production, order the expected quantity together or compare a current swatch before reordering.
Is it suitable for wholesale costume or occasionwear production?
Yes. The approximately 187 GSM, 150 cm, 4-way stretch base can support coordinated production across colourways. Order swatches first to confirm stretch, metallic appearance and handling for your pattern before committing to the wholesale quantity.
When should I choose another fabric instead?
Choose a technical swim fabric for regular pool use, a breathable natural-fibre fabric for hot everyday basics, a non-stretch woven for crisp tailoring, or a heavier structural textile when strong shape retention matters more than stretch.
Before cutting or sewing this metallic foiled stretch jersey, test a swatch for washing, pressing, seam handling and finish durability. The reflective foil surface can react to heat and friction, so confirm the safest settings before production.
- Test first Test a swatch before washing, pressing or cutting the full fabric.
- Needle Use a stretch or ballpoint needle and test stitch length and tension to avoid skipped stitches or marking the foil surface.
- Wash Use cold gentle hand washing or a delicate machine cycle, inside out, max 30°C.
- Dry Do not tumble dry. Air dry flat or in shade to protect the foil finish.
- Iron Avoid direct ironing on the foil face; if pressing is necessary, use very low heat on the reverse side with a pressing cloth.
- Cutting Let the fabric relax flat before cutting, use a walking foot when helpful, and avoid stretching the fabric while feeding it through the machine.
General care guidance only. Results may vary by colour, foil finish, water quality, heat, friction and garment construction.
Compare to Metallic Plisse Stretch Jersey
Both fabrics are stretch metallic jerseys, but this fabric has a smooth foil surface rather than a raised plisse texture.
This fabric is better when
- Choose this fabric when you want a cleaner, more continuous metallic reflection.
- Better for sleek fitted dresses, bodysuits, jumpsuits and performance silhouettes.
- The smooth surface keeps visual texture minimal while still delivering strong shine.
Metallic Plisse Stretch Jersey is better when
- Choose metallic plisse jersey when you want more visible surface texture and dimensional light movement.
- Better for statement garments where the pleated texture itself is part of the design.
Compare to Non-Stretch Metallic Lame Woven
A non-stretch lame woven can look crisp and structured, while this fabric combines metallic shine with 4-way stretch and a more body-following drape.
This fabric is better when
- Better when fitted garments need stretch, movement and comfort.
- More adaptable for dancewear, stagewear, jumpsuits and body-skimming eveningwear.
- Easier to use in patterns designed around stretch and recovery.
Non-Stretch Metallic Lame Woven is better when
- Choose a non-stretch metallic woven for crisp tailoring, structured skirts or silhouettes that rely on firm shape.
- Better when stretch is not required and a sharper woven hand is preferred.
Compare to Sequin Stretch Mesh
Sequin stretch mesh creates sparkle through attached sequins, while this fabric creates shine through a smooth metallic foil surface.
This fabric is better when
- Smoother and less abrasive than many sequin fabrics.
- Better for draped garments, trousers, jumpsuits and stretch dresses where a continuous surface is preferred.
- Provides metallic impact without the weight and snag risk of many sequin constructions.
Sequin Stretch Mesh is better when
- Sequin stretch mesh is better when maximum sparkle, embellishment and stage visibility are the priority.
- Better for decorative overlays, costume panels and highly embellished accents.
Shipping, Returns & Store Visits
How do shipping, duties, taxes, and delivery work?
HIBA Fabrics ships internationally to the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and many other destinations. Shipping options, estimated delivery times, duties, VAT, taxes, and any applicable import charges vary by destination and are displayed at checkout before payment where applicable.
Shipping & DeliveryWhat should I know before ordering cut fabric?
Because most fabric orders are cut to your requested length, they may be subject to special return conditions. Please review our returns policy before purchasing. If you are unsure about colour, texture, weight, drape, or suitability, we recommend ordering a swatch before placing a larger order.
Returns & RefundsNeed help choosing the right fabric?
Our team can assist with fabric selection, quantity estimates, colour matching, garment suitability, wholesale enquiries, and international delivery questions before you place your order.
Can I visit HIBA Fabrics in person?
HIBA Fabrics is based in Istanbul, Türkiye. Please contact us before visiting to confirm appointment availability, opening hours, location details, and fabric availability.
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