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History of Lycra

Lycra, the synthetic fibre that has revolutionised the world of fashion, was invented in the 1920s. 1950s by the American chemist Joseph Shiversworking for DuPont. Initially called "K fibre", this polyurethane-based material quickly won over customers with its exceptional elasticity. Marketed under the name Lycra from 1962 onwards, it has become an essential part of the textile industry.

What is Lycra used for?

A quoi sert le lycra
What is lycra used for, and where is it used?

Thanks to its great capacity to stretch and return to its original shape, Lycra is used in a multitude of garments:

  • Sportswear
  • Lingerie
  • Mode
  • Medicine, medical accessories
Lycra is used for both men and women in swimwear and sport.

How do I sew Lycra?

Sewing Lycra requires a few special precautions:

  • Fine needles for stretch fabrics: To avoid damaging the elastic fibres.
  • Stretch, zigzag or overlock stitches : For smoother, stronger seams.

Other names for Lycra?

Lycra is a brand name, but this type of fibre can also be called 'spandex' or 'elastane'. Lycra is a brand name, while elastane is the generic name for the fibre.

All Lycra is elastane, but not all elastane is Lycra.

Gradually Lycra became a generic name for all generic textiles comprising lycra or spandex or elastane. This is not technically accurate.

To form a textile, elastane is always combined with other fibres such as polyamide, nylon, polyester or cotton, ...

The choice between synthetic or natural fibres depends on how you intend to use them.

Lycra for lingerie, sports and swimwear

lycra maillot de bain
lycra swimwear: advantages

Lycra is ideal because it dries quickly, provides good muscle compression and protects against UV rays.

Lycra swimwear and sportswear are comfortable and durable. Our Lycra fabrics offer a incomparable freedom of movement.

In short, Lycra is a versatile fibre that has revolutionised the textile industry thanks to its elasticity and comfort. It is used in a wide range of fields, from sport to fashion and medicine.

It is increasingly combined with recycled fibres for a more eco-friendly alternative and use - one of the challenges for the coming years - recycling these fibres while preserving their intrinsic characteristics.

Lycra is widely used in the surfing world. In addition to lycra swimwearThis material is often preferred for coveralls and t-shirts. There are also lycra boxer shorts for men and lycra leggings for women.