Tussor, also spelled tussore, is a type of silk fabric that is typically rough and irregular in texture. The word is pronounced /ˈtʌsər/ (tuh-suhr), with the first syllable rhyming with "bus" and the second syllable pronounced like "sir". The spelling of the word is derived from its Hindi origin, where it is spelled tussar or tasar. Tussor is often used in the fashion industry for making high-end garments due to its unique texture and durability.
Tussor is a noun that refers to a type of silk fabric that is characterized by its coarse texture and uneven weave. It is commonly produced from the larvae of a specific type of silkworm called Antheraea paphia, which is found in parts of India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. The term “tussor” is derived from the Hindi word “tussar,” which means "sharp" or "sharp-edged."
The fabric is known for its unique appearance, with a slightly slubbed texture that gives it a natural and rustic charm. Tussor is often considered a lightweight and breathable fabric, making it suitable for a variety of clothing items such as blouses, dresses, and scarves. Due to its rugged texture and durability, it is also used for furnishings like upholstery and drapes.
Tussor silk has a characteristic golden or brownish color, which is a result of the natural diet of the silkworms. The silk fibers produced by these larvae are coarser and less lustrous compared to other types of silk, giving tussor its distinctive look and feel.
The term "tussor" can sometimes be used interchangeably with "dupion" or "shantung" silk, as they all share similar irregularities in their weave and texture. However, unlike dupion or shantung silk, which are often smoother and have a more refined appearance, tussor is prized for its earthy and textured qualities.
The word "tussor" is derived from the Hindi term "tusar", which literally means "silk" in English. It is used to refer to a type of wild silk fabric made from the cocoon of a specific silkworm species called Antheraea mylitta, found in India and other parts of South Asia. "Tussor" entered the English language through the colonial trade relations between Britain and the Indian subcontinent.