What does cloque mean?
Cloque is a textured fabric characterized by a puckered, blistered, or bubbled surface, produced by weaving yarns of differing tension so parts of the cloth draw up into raised areas. The name comes from French, where 'cloqué' means 'blistered,' and the word is closely tied to high-end fashion: cloque appears most often in dresses, jackets, coats, and accessories from designers and couture houses, valued because its sculptural texture adds visual interest without ornamentation. It is typically woven from cotton, silk, or blends, and is related to matelassé, another figured fabric with a raised pattern. Because it is a specialist term, cloque rarely surfaces outside fashion journalism, garment labels, and textile discussion; within those contexts it signals quality and design sophistication. For anyone reading about fashion or shopping for structured garments, recognizing cloque helps identify why certain fabrics look rippled or quilted and why they command premium prices.
nounA textured fabric, typically of cotton or silk, woven so that it has a puckered or blistered surface; also, the puckered effect itself.
- A fabric with a puckered or blistered surface texture, made by weaving yarns of different tensions.
- The puckered or bubbled surface effect characteristic of such fabric.
"She wore an elegant dress cut from ivory cloque that caught the light on its bubbled surface."
"Her cocktail dress was sewn from black silk cloque, its dimpled surface shimmering under the lights."
"The designer favored cotton cloque for spring jackets because the raised texture held its shape without lining."
Rarely pluralized except when referring to multiple fabric types or bolts.
"The showroom stocked silks, brocades, and cloques from several mills."
The name literally means 'blistered' in French — fashion's way of making wrinkles look deliberate and luxurious.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of cloque
The word cloque derives from French 'cloqué,' meaning 'blistered,' itself formed from 'cloque,' an old term connected to the idea of a swelling or bubble. It entered English in the twentieth century through the fashion and textile trade as designers adopted the fabric for its sculptural surface. Its deeper root is shared with other words descended via Latin 'clocca' ('bell'), which also gave English 'clock' and 'cloak.'
How cloque is actually used
A technical term used mainly in fashion, textiles, and sewing contexts rather than everyday conversation. It carries an upmarket connotation, associated with designer clothing and couture fabrics.
Easily confused with cloque
A cloche is a close-fitting bell-shaped hat (or a garden cover), while cloque is a puckered, bubble-textured fabric.