What is fil-a-fil
Fil-à-fil is French for thread by thread, known in English as end to end. It is a weaving technique in which a coloured and a white thread constantly alternate. From a distance the fabric looks plain, but up close you see a subtle contrast between the light and dark threads. That gives a shirt depth without looking like a print.
Properties of fil-à-fil
The technique produces a light and breathable fabric, which is why you find it a lot in summer clothing and in countries with a tropical or Mediterranean climate. The fabric is also supple and crease-resistant, which makes fil-à-fil particularly suitable for tops such as shirts and jackets. It is a sturdy fabric, although it does not match the sturdiness of, for example, an oxford weave, which is woven with thicker yarns.