Hello, my favorite reader.
Today’s article is a special one. Corduroy material is a fabric that has its fair share of love and hate in equal measure. But did you know clothing manufacturers are cashing in on Corduroy in 2025?
I’ll tell you why in a bit. And I know this because I have been manufacturing Corduroy apparel for 10+ years. I’m going to tell you the good, the bad, and the ugly about Corduroy material. Plus, I show you where to get them for a fair price, so you don’t spend all your savings.
We’ll cover a lot. From the definition of Corduroy fabric to how it is made to common use cases.
Let’s not waste more time…
Table of Contents
What is Corduroy Material?
Corduroy fabric is one of the most durable fabrics ever made. It’s distinguished by the evenly spaced vertical rows made of soft piles.
Yes, the lines are pretty distinctive. There’s no way you are going to miss a Corduroy pant passing you in the streets. And the sound they make while walking is pretty loud, too. Reminds me of the Levi’s Corduroy Jeans Honey Badger Commercial.
Enough with the trolling. Corduroy is one of the most rigid and durable fabrics you’re ever going to get.
They are mostly made from cotton. And passes through a series of weaving processes. Just like the denim fabric-making process, which makes it resistant to wear and tear.
In the coming sections, we’ll delve into the manufacturing process of Corduroy material. But first…
Why Many Apparel Brands Love Corduroy Material?
If you’ve been around long enough, you know that Corduroy material was the ish in the late 90s. That said, most retailers love it for its vintage appeal.
Real fashion enthusiasts never miss a Corduroy in their wardrobe. Whether a trouser, jacket, hat, you name it.
Also, Corduroy material is very easy to dye and print. Meaning their customization costs are low compared to other high-end fabrics like Jacquard.
Lastly, Corduroy apparel has a higher ROI compared to apparel from other fabrics. Of course, this stems from their durability and retro aesthetic.
For example, a Corduroy material costs around $7/yard for its material. Sells for around $80 – $120, depending on the market. That’s a cool 40%-60%, factoring in other costs such as manufacturing and shipping.
How is Corduroy Material Manufactured?
Here’s a gross oversimplification of how Corduroy fabric is made:
1. Weaving
Like I said, the process is very similar to making denim fabric. Here, the weft threads alternate over and under the warp threads. This forms the primary weave, which also acts as the base weave.
Textile manufacturers then add a third yarn, which is woven onto the base weave. However, this is cut to form a ‘pile yarn‘, leaving a soft, textured surface.
2. Applying Glue
The pile yarn from the previous step is glued to the woven fabric to prevent it from pulling through. Especially during the cutting process, which is more intense.
3. Cutting of the Pile Yarn
Here’s where the Corduroy material we know of today comes to life. Industrial cutters are used to cut the pile yarns before brushing them into fine ridges.
4. Dyeing
Manufacturers will use reactive dyes depending on the fiber content.
After dye fixation. The fabric is washed and brushed to restore its signature ribbed texture. This also ensures a long-lasting color.
Types of Corduroy Material
Here are six types of Corduroy Material that should NEVER be missing in your store:
1. Standard Corduroy
Standard Corduroy is the most recognized type thanks to its medium-width ridges. Typically, it has about 11 to 14 wales per inch, which gives it a balanced look.
This fabric is strong but not too heavy, which makes it perfect for everyday wear. I’m talking about apparel like jackets and skirts. Jacket Manufacturers USA often select this versatile material for their fall and winter collections due to its durability and classic appeal.
You’ll see it in a lot of fall and winter collections because of its warm texture. It feels soft to the touch. Plus it holds color well, hence why it’s often dyed in rich tones.
It’s a reliable choice if you want to capitalize on vintage appeal. And maximize your outfit.
2. Wide Wale Corduroy
Wide wale corduroy has fewer wales per inch. That’s about 4 to 8, which gives it a bold textured appearance. The ridges are thicker and more pronounced, creating a chunkier, heavier feel.
This type of Corduroy is often used in outerwear. Or statement pieces because of its strong visual character. Think oversized jackets, baggy trousers, and retro-inspired vests.
It tends to be warmer and bulkier, which makes it ideal for colder weather.
Pro Tip: If you want to lean into that throwback 70s vibe, wale corduroy is your go-to. It’s rugged and unapologetically noticeable on the street or runway.
3. Pinwale Corduroy
Pinwale corduroy is the opposite of wide wale. It features ultra-fine ridges that give it a sleek, polished finish. With up to 16 to 21 wales per inch.
This fabric is smoother and feels closer to velvet than traditional Corduroy. Because of its refined texture. Pinwale is often used in children’s clothing and formal pieces. It drapes better than heavier corduroy types and can be quite lightweight.
Pinwale also works well for detailed garments where flexibility and softness matter. It’s a great option if you want that corduroy vibe without the bulk or ruggedness.
My opinion (and only mine): Pinwale is simply clean and easy to layer.
4. Spandex Corduroy
Spandex corduroy blends traditional cotton with a small percentage of spandex or Lycra. That way, spandex corduroy is more stretchy than the others on this list.
This version of Corduroy is perfect for clothing that prioritizes functionality. For example, fitted pants or even casual blazers. It hugs the body without feeling restrictive and bounces back well after wear.
Despite the added stretch, it still maintains the ribbed texture. Exactly what Corduroy is known for. You’ll see it a lot in modern fashion lines that balance comfort and style.
Spandex corduroy is especially popular in streetwear and contemporary fashion. That’s because of its ability to keep shape without sacrificing flexibility.
5. Pigment Dyed Corduroy
Pigment dyed Corduroy gets its color from surface-level pigment rather than fiber-deep dye. This gives it a washed look that softens over time. The color tends to fade gently, which adds to the vintage or worn-in aesthetic that many people love.
It’s popular in casual or streetwear brands that want an intentionally aged vibe. Pigment dyeing also creates subtle variations in tone that make each piece unique.
The fabric maintains all the qualities of Corduroy but with a softer, broken-in finish. Ideal for relaxed fits or retro color palettes with character.
6. Bedford Cord
While technically not a true corduroy. Bedford cord shares many similarities with corduroy material. Especially in the way it looks. It has vertical ridges like Corduroy that are woven into the fabric without the soft pile.
This gives Bedford Cord a smoother and tougher finish used by uniform manufacturers. It’s less fuzzy but highly durable. That’s great for garments that need to handle rougher conditions. The fabric holds its shape extremely well and resists abrasion better than plush.
If you want the structured feel of Corduroy with less texture. Bedford cord is a great alternative that blends utility with subtle style.
Suggested Reading:
6 Best Fabric for Hawaiian Shirt: Nail the Authentic Look
Nylon Spandex Fabric for Sportswear: Strength & Stretch
Microfiber Fabric: Maximize ROI with the Right Guide
Corduroy Vs. Other Similar Fabrics
| Feature | Corduroy | Denim | Velvet | Twill |
| Texture | It is ribbed and soft. Also, Corduroy is very warm than most of the others in this table. | Relatively smooth and very rigid. | Has a silky and plush texture. | Very soft and features a diagonal weave. |
| Durability | Highly durable and abrasion-resistant. | Very rugged used in workwear. | Delicate and can wear down quickly. | Durable but is relatively thinner. |
| Comfort | Soft and cozy. Perfect for all-year-round apparel. | Stiff unless washed or blended. | Luxuriously soft but lacks aeration. | Breathable and light. |
| Style | Worn in streetwear casual and upscale looks. | Best for casual, rugged styles. | Formal or luxury outfits. | Common in Semi-casual fits. |
| Customization | Easy to dye print and shape for brand designs. | Difficult to print on. | Not suitable for logos or detailed prints. | Can be printed but lacks texture depth. |
| Rating | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ |
How Much You Will Spend Buying Corduroy Material?
In 2025, the cost of corduroy material depends on quality and the purchase source. Cotton standard pinwale corduroy typically sells for around $12 to $22 per yard. Note that this price is only common in retail outlets.
More premium blends, like stretch cotton variants, may cost $20 to $32 per yard.
Heavy-duty corduroy often ranges from $9 to $15 per yard for polyester blends.
Wholesale or bulk purchases lower costs significantly for manufacturers.
Polyester-based Corduroy for cushions or furniture can be sourced as low as $2.23. Even $3.12 per meter from some industrial suppliers.
Expert Advice: Cotton corduroy wholesaled by the roll may average $7 to $14 per yard. So, if you buy ten yards of mid-range stretch cotton corduroy at $20 per yard. You would spend about $200. Bulk buying could reduce that to roughly $60 to $100 in wholesale channels.
Common Use Cases of Corduroy Material
Corduroy material is a favorite across fashion and utility design. This is because of its durability and visual texture.
In apparel, Corduroy material makes quality trousers and jackets. Oh, and skirts too. More common in fall and winter collections where its thick ridges provide insulation. I also like the vintage charm they exude.
You’ll often see corduroy shirts offering a more structured alternative to denim. In children’s wear, pinwale corduroy is popular for its softness. Streetwear brands also favor spandex corduroy for stretchable joggers and slim-fit pants.
Beyond clothing, corduroy material is also common in hats and caps. Recently, there have also been shoes like high-top sneakers that have corduroy uppers.
For home décor, wide wale, and heavyweight Corduroy are used for upholstery pillow covers. And cushions, thanks to their cozy yet tough fabric feel. The soft texture makes it appealing for reading chairs or lounge sofas.
In bags and accessories. Corduroy material gives a retro look while being sturdy enough for regular use. Designers love it because it’s easy to dye and tailor. That makes Corduroy an all-rounder fabric suitable for bold statement pieces.
People Also Ask About Corduroy Material
1. Can Corduroy be customized for brand requirements?
Yes, Corduroy is easy to dye and print, making it ideal for brand customization. Here at Jace Apparel, we use it for tailored fits. And bold colorways that reflect unique brand aesthetics.
2. What are the current trends with Corduroy Material?
Corduroy is trending in oversized jackets and two-tone pants. You can get these at Jace Apparel at very affordable prices. We integrate Corduroy into modern streetwear cuts, bringing back retro flair. This ensures your apparel attracts more customers and tremendously increases your sales.
3. Does Corduroy Material Last Longer than Denim Fabric?
Corduroy and denim are both durable. But Corduroy has a thicker texture and softer wear over time. We use high-quality blends to extend garment life and maintain structure after use. You’ll have customers literally forcing you to take their money.
4. Where can I get Quality Corduroy Material?
You can find premium Corduroy at trusted retailers and specialty textile markets. Jace Apparel sources directly from top mills. This ensures rich texture and industry-grade fabric resilience.
What’s Next
Still not sure whether or not you need to start stocking corduroy fabric.
Then let me reiterate…
Corduroy is a very durable and fashionable fabric. It’s cheap too, so you don’t have to worry about absurd manufacturing costs.
This means that you’ll be building customer trust with fabrics that last forever. And save money which can be invested into marketing your Corduroy apparel.
In case you are wondering where to get the highest quality Corduroy fabric. Then you are in the right place.
Experts at JaceApparel help you source and manufacture top-notch Corduroy clothing the market can’t resist.
Let’s start scaling your apparel business by booking a free consultation here.
Source:
1. fabricsight.com – Corduroy – A Versatile Fabric with History.
2. ahandtailoredsuit.com – What is Corduroy?
3. seamwork.com – A Guide to Sewing with Corduroy.