A fabric built for water

Looped-pile cloths were woven by hand in the Ottoman Empire long before industrial mills. In the mid-19th century the English firm Christy adapted the technique to the power loom, and the terry towel became a household staple. Today terry is also cut into robes, polos and relaxed summer sets.

How the loops form

In woven terry, two sets of warp yarns run at different tensions: one stays tight to form the base, the other is let loose so the loom pushes it up into loops. The longer and denser the loops, the more absorbent and heavier the fabric.

How it feels

Plush, absorbent and textured, with a relaxed, holiday feel.

Where it works

Towels, bathrobes, beachwear, polos and summer sets.

Caring for it

Wash warm without fabric softener, which coats the loops and reduces absorbency.