crepe de Chine

American  

[kreyp duh sheen] / ˌkreɪp də ˈʃin /

noun

1. a light, soft, silk or synthetic fabric with minute irregularities of surface.

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crepe de Chine British  

/ kreɪp də ˈʃiːn /

noun

1. 1. a very thin crepe of silk or a similar light fabric

   2. ( as modifier )

      a crepe-de-Chine blouse

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Etymology

Origin of crepe de Chine

1885–90; < French: literally, crepe from China

Example Sentences

My designs are modernly elegant and chic with a twist — interesting cuts, dramatic drapes from the back, and layering of different silk fabrics, like crepe de Chine, chiffon and tulle.

From New York Times • Oct. 5, 2021

Kors officially launched his label in 1981 when, at age 21, he debuted an 18-piece collection of white crepe de Chine dresses and streamlined leather separates made for the resort season.

From New York Times • Apr. 9, 2018

But his most inspired idea was to elevate ordinary crepe de Chine.

From New York Times • Oct. 2, 2010

When he awoke he learned that the sweaters he had brought for the kids were too small; the real crepe de Chine nightgown for his wife too large.

From Time Magazine Archive

Filet lace came then, sheerly, whole yokes of it for crepe de Chine nightgowns and dainty scalloped edges for camisoles.

From The Best Short Stories of 1921 and the Yearbook of the American Short Story by O'Brien, Edward J. (Edward Joseph Harrington)