Difference Between Twill and Poplin Shirts

Twill and poplin are two common fabrics that are used to manufacture shirts. The difference between twill and poplin shirts stems from the difference between the two fabrics twill and poplin. The key difference between twill and poplin shirts is that twill shirts are thicker and sturdier than poplin shirts which are soft and comfortable.

What are Twill Shirts?

Twill shirts are shirts made of the twill fabric. Twill fabrics are easy to recognize since they have a distinctive diagonal weave. This diagonal texture makes the fabric softer and easier to drape. It also has a very tight weave and comes with an extremely high thread count. Twill fabric also have a light shine, but this may depend on the color, weave, and cotton used.

Twill fabric is a bit warmer and thicker than poplin. It is also not as breathable as poplin although twill shirts can be worn under jackets. They have a tendency to wrinkle easily and it is difficult to remove strains from this fabric although it doesn’t attract dirt easily. Twill shirts can be worn for a casual look with jeans and trainers. They are thicker and sturdier than poplin shirts.

What are Poplin Shirts?

Poplin shirts are made from the plain weave of fine yarns, which create a smooth, soft and durable fabric. It is also important to note that poplin is often referred to as broadcloth although they are technically two different fabrics. Poplin is the most common fabric used to make shirts. They are among the softest and smoothest due to their lack of texture, but at the same time, they are more prone to wrinkling. But it can retain its smoothness after being ironed. Poplin fabric is thin and breathable; therefore, poplin shirts can be worn comfortably under jackets or blazers. However, this fabric, especially the white colored poplin, can be slightly transparent due to its thinness.

Poplin shirts are very comfortable and soft and are perfect for casual wear. Different colors and patterns can also be easily used with these shirts.

What is the difference between Twill and Poplin Shirts?

 Twill vs Poplin Shirt

Twill shirts are made from twill fabric. Poplin shirts are made from poplin fabric.
Weave Pattern
Twill fabric has a diagonal weave.  Poplin fabric has a plain weave.
Weave
Twill has a very tight weave with an extremely high thread count. Poplin fabric has a smoother, thin weave.
Texture
Twill shirts are thick and sturdy than poplin shirts. Poplin shirts are soft and smooth than twill shirts.
Breathability
Twill shirts are not as breathable as poplin shirts. Poplin shirts are very breathable and can be worn under jackets and blazers.
Transparency
Twill shirts are not transparent. Poplin shirts, especially white ones may be slightly transparent.

Image Courtesy:

“White Poplin Shirt” by Tradlands (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr

“Unbleached Organic Cotton Twill Buckwheat Pillow Cover” by sleepsugar.com  (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr