Stretch Denim Fabric Wholesale

What makes a denim "stretch"

Stretch denim is cotton woven with a small percentage of elastane — written as E, S, SP or LYC depending on the mill — usually one to three percent. That small figure changes the fabric completely: recovery, how a fitted leg holds its shape after a day of wear, and how much the pattern has to be adjusted from a rigid block.

The two constructions you will see most often here are 98% cotton / 2% elastane and 99% cotton / 1% elastane — together about five rows in six of our stretch stock. The 1% goods behave much closer to rigid denim and suit a straighter leg; the 2% goods are what most fitted and skinny programmes are cut in. We also carry 3–4% for a genuinely close fit. Above that you are into power stretch and jegging territory, which is a different fabric and a different pattern.

Not every stretch fabric is simply cotton plus elastane. A good part of this inventory is cotton blended with polyester or a cellulosic before the elastane, which changes drape, recovery and how the goods take a wash. Read the full composition on the row, not just the elastane figure.

What it is used for

Fitted and skinny jeans, stretch skirts, shorts, and jackets that need to move. If you are cutting a classic five-pocket in a straight or relaxed leg, look at rigid denim instead — stretch in a loose fit tends to bag out.

What to check before you commit

Ask for a swatch and pull it in both directions. Weft stretch is the norm; warp stretch (or bi-stretch) is a different animal and needs to be specified. Check recovery by holding the stretch for a few seconds and letting go — a fabric that stays distorted will do the same at the knee. And check the weight: a 9oz stretch and a 12oz stretch handle nothing alike even at the same elastane percentage.