Lands’ End Glossary of Terms

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1000-Denier Cloth Cordura®
Denier is an internationally recognized unit of measurement used to describe the fineness of certain types of yarns. The lower the denier number, the finer the fabric made of the yarn.  1000-denier Cordura® cloth is the heaviest-weight fabric of the Cordura family, making it ideal for luggage, duffel bags and any other end-use that requires a durable, abrasion-resistant fabric.
7-Day Pants
Lands' End 7-Day Pants and Shorts are designed to be dressy enough to wear Monday through Friday, yet casual enough to get comfortable in during the weekend. Available in a variety of fabrics, including twill, denim and linen, 7-Day Pants usually feature easy-on partial elastic waists and machine-washable fabrics.
Acrylic Fabric
"Acrylic" is a generic name for fibers and yarns manufactured from acrylic resins. These fibers produce fabrics that are extremely soft, with a wool-like "hand." Acrylic fabrics are easily machine-washed and dried while resisting shrinkage. They also retain their shape, drape nicely and offer exceptional color retention.
Adjustable Cuffs
Cuffs are sewn-on or turned-back pieces of fabric or other material at the ends of shirt sleeves, pants legs or gloves. Adjustable cuffs are cuffs that can be tightened or loosened using buttons, zippers, ties, elastic or any combination thereof.
A-Line Shape
An "A-line shape" typically refers to the silhouette of a dress, skirt, jumper or coat; a gentle flare from the underarms to the bottom hem of the garment. Shoulders are typically narrow and necklines may vary. In short, if the cut of the garment resembles the letter "A," it's probably an A-line.
The alpaca is similar to the llama and originates in South America. It produces one of the world's finest and most luxurious natural fibers. Their naturally colorful fleece is clipped, gathered and spun into lustrous yarns. Fabric made from the yarns is cashmere-like in its softness and lighter and stronger than wool.
Angel Fleece™ Microfiber
Angel Fleece™ is a Land's End trademarked term for a lightweight fleece fabric manufactured exclusively for our customers. It has properties similar to Polartec®. It's very warm yet wicks away moisture for additional comfort; surprisingly soft, it stays remarkably pill-free and holds its shape well. It is, however, lighter than Polartec, so Angel Fleece is particularly well suited to pajamas and other sleepwear.
Angora derives its name from the ancient city of Angora, Turkey (now called Ankara) and lends itself to a breed of goats, rabbits and even cats.  Angora goats are bred and raised for their long, silky hair; also considered to be the true mohair. The fleece is quite fine and is typically combined with other fibers in weaving to make soft, luxurious garments. A garment label indicating the presence of angora refers specifically to the fleece of Angora goats.  Angora rabbits are likewise raised for their fine, lightweight hair. Their fleece is extremely warm and fluffy but also has a tendency to shed or mat with time. By law, garments made of Angora rabbit fleece must be specifically labeled as such.
Aniline-Dyed Leather
Aniline is a synthetic-organic dye that contains no opaque pigments. Typically, hides are soaked in aniline dye vats until fully saturated. This process results in a leather product whose grain is visible, instead of being hidden by pigments. Because the leather is dyed through and through, the resulting finish is permanent and will not wear off or fade.
As the name implies, an antibacterial agent is effective in preventing or destroying bacteria. Most commonly used in soaps and other cleaning agents, antibacterials are occasionally found in clothing.
Microbes are microorganisms usually associated with germs. Applying an antimicrobial agent to certain fabrics has been proven to minimize odors. Our Antimicrobial Sport Socks contain X-Static® nylon yarns coated in silver, which is a natural and highly effective antimicrobial.
Aran Isle Knit
A pullover sweater with a raised cable pattern and interlaced vertical diamond patterns, named for the Irish island where this pattern was originally developed. Sometimes this style is called a "fisherman's sweater."
Argyle Knit
Argyle is a classic knit pattern of variously colored diamonds in outline and solid shapes, superimposed on a solid background color. A true argyle mimics the clan tartan of the Argylls, a branch of the Scottish clan of Campbell.
Ballet Neckline
As you may have guessed, the ballet neckline (or, balletneck) was inspired by the neckline common to many leotards. Typically a wide-cut neckline extending from shoulder to shoulder, it's similar to a boatneck but usually a bit lower in the front. A balletneck adds a graceful, feminine look and is used mostly in sweaters.
Ballistic Nylon
Ballistic nylon, so named because it was originally developed for use in bulletproof vests, is an especially tough, puncture- and abrasion-resistant material. Lightweight, attractive, easy to clean and exceptionally long-wearing, we found it ideal for our professional line of Ballistic Luggage.
Banded Sleeve
A banded sleeve has a knit opening similar to a knit cuff, tailored to fit snugly but comfortably around the arm.
Ban-Rol® is a registered trademark of a patented waistband insert we use in our men's and women's tailored trousers. The insert eliminates waistband rollover for a neater overall appearance and more comfortable fit.
Ban-Rol® Waistband
A Ban-Rol® waistband incorporates a trademarked interlining to increase shape-keeping and prevent "roll-over" in men's and women's slacks.
Bar Tack
A bar tack is a very short, concentrated zigzag stitch used to reinforce stress points such as buttonholes and pocket corners.
Bartacking is a sewing method for reinforcing points of stress on garments, which in turn provides you with longer wear. Used most frequently on buttonholes, pocket corners and zipper ends, the bartack is made using a short zigzag stitch repeated 4 or 5 times.
Basket Weave
A basket weave has a subtle checkerboard texture. It is most frequently used in classic shirting fabrics, like oxford cloth, and some suitings.
Belt Keeper
The keeper on a belt is the loop of leather, fabric or metal adjacent to the buckle. After passing through the buckle, the end of the belt is inserted through the keeper. It is the keeper's job to prevent the end of the belt from flopping in the breeze.
Bemberg® Lining
A high-quality rayon lining found in better suitcoats, a Bemberg® lining combines long wear with low bulk and the smooth surface required for getting a jacket on and off easily.
Besom Pocket
A besom pocket is a type of pocket on a jacket or pants with a narrow welted edge at the top of the pocket opening. It is a double besom if both edges have welts  – and a flapped besom if a flap is added.
Better Cotton Sweater
"Better Cotton Sweater" is a Lands' End term used to differentiate our Drifter+B74 sweaters from all other cotton sweaters.  Cotton sweaters abound, but none can compare with the combination of quality and value found in a Lands' End Drifter sweater. Why? We insist on using long-staple combed cotton the equal of that found in many fine dress shirts. Yarn-dyeing (used more commonly in expensive wool sweaters) ensures that your favorite color doesn't fade.  And every Drifter is still "fully fashioned" instead of cut out and then sewn together. That means knitting each sweater one panel at a time to exact sizes for a naturally comfortable fit. Try on a Lands' End Drifter and then compare it with any other cotton sweater you've ever owned and you'll know instantly what we mean when we say "Better Cotton Sweater."
"Bodice" generally refers to a close-fitting upper part of a woman's dress or a cross-laced vest that comprises the top half of a dress.
Bound Seam
A bound seam is made by using fabric strips to encase raw fabric edges. This prevents fraying or unraveling, and adds strength. Our attaches and hand-carried luggage pieces are constructed with strong, bound seams. We also use bound seams on armholes and seat seams in some of our jackets and pants.
Box Quilt Design
A box quilt design refers to a square-shaped pattern incorporated into a quilt or garment. (Quilting is a technique in which two layers of fabric are sandwiched with some type of material or stuffing and then stitched together.)  We use a box quilt design in goose down coats and vests as well as some bedding. In both, the boxes serve to keep stuffings (like goose down) from shifting so the coat or quilt doesn't get lumpy.
Brace Buttons
"Braces" is a British term for what Americans commonly call suspenders. Brace buttons are the buttons sewn onto to the waistband of trousers used to attach the suspenders to the pants.
"Breathability" describes a fabric characteristic that allows air to circulate freely through a garment, which in turn helps regulate body temperature. Fabrics such as cotton and linen are widely used in many garments due to their ability keep the body cool and comfortable.
The word "broadcloth" was originally used to describe a silk shirting or other cloth woven on a wide loom. Currently, "broadcloth" refers most often to a cotton or cotton/polyester blend fabric used mainly for fine dress shirts.  Characteristically, broadcloth is a tightly woven, lustrous fabric in a plain weave with a crosswise rib. The rib is quite fine and subtle, resembling poplin but smoother. The finest qualities of broadcloth are made with Egyptian cotton. Thread counts (threads per square inch) typically range from 80 to 120, with the higher thread counts representing a finer fabric.
"Buttondown" refers to a shirt collar style. Typically, the collar has two pointed ends, which are fastened to the shirt by small buttons. Popularized in the 1950s, the buttondown collar adds a crisp, neat look to any shirt.
Button-Front Cardigan
Legend has it that the cardigan derives its name from James Thomas Brudenell, known as the 7th Earl of Cardigan. A Lt. General in the British army, he allegedly wanted an extra layer to wear under his uniform for warmth. That layer eventually became known as the cardigan.  The Earl later led the disastrous charge at Balaklava during the Crimean War. According to popular lore, the charge was made as the result of a misunderstood order and his brigade was destroyed. But the name lives on!  A button-front cardigan typically refers to a sweater with buttons sewn to a placket for fastening the two sides of the sweater together.
Button-Through Pocket
A button-through pocket has a button that secures the opening and prevents gaping.
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Cable Stitch
A cable stitch is a hand-knit stitch that produces a twisted, ropelike design by crossing groups of knitting stitches over each other.
Calf Suede
Calf suede is calfskin that's been buffed on one side. Buffing raises a slight nap to add texture.
"Calf-length" describes where on your body the hem of a particular garment will fall, usually about midway between your knees and your ankles. Clothing typically designed to be calf-length includes dresses, bathrobes, sleepwear and coats.
The supple, fine grain leather made from the hides of young cows or bulls is commonly known as calfskin or calfskin leather.
Camel Hair
The fine, soft underhair of the Bactrian (two-humped) camel is the source for authentic camel-hair fabrics. The hair, or fleece, is gathered and spun into yarn, then knit or woven to make soft, lustrous and durable fabrics.  Camel hair is quite lightweight and has exceptional thermostatic properties so camel hair insulates nicely in cold weather and keeps skin cool in warmer weather. Garments made of camel hair wear well, are naturally wrinkle-resistant and get softer over time.
A camisole is a type of lingerie or pajama-top style for women and girls. Most camisoles are very lightweight and gathered at — or tapered to — the waist with a straight-cut top and thin over-the-shoulder straps. Camisoles are often trimmed with lace or embroidery to add a more feminine look.  They are made from a variety of fabrics, but those most commonly used are silk, nylon and cotton.
Capri Length Pants
The slim, calf-length pants known as capris made their way to the American shores from Italy in the '50s. Italy’s island of Capri was a popular tourist spot, and the traditional mid-calf style pants worn by the women there caught the fashion world's fancy. Capris returned to the fashion scene in the '90s, and remain popular to this day.  Also called pedal-pushers (great for riding a bike without worrying about getting your cuff caught in a chain) and clam diggers (wade-worthy), the style is distinguished by its relatively close fit and mid-calf (more or less) length.
Carded Cotton
Cotton is the fiber extracted from the seedpods of cotton plants. To prepare the cotton for weaving or knitting, the extracted fibers are mechanically cleaned. The result is called carded cotton.  After washing, the carded cotton still contains fibers of uneven lengths as well as some naturally occurring impurities. Because of this, it can create thick and thin spots in the yarn, which can make any resulting fabric weaker.  To remove shorter fibers and impurities, the cotton can be combed. Combing the cotton leaves just the longer, more mature fibers, which are stronger, smoother and softer. Consequently, fabrics made from combed cotton result in softer, more durable garments.
Carded Wool
Raw wool fibers must be "cleaned up" before they are spun into yarn, and this process is called "carding," named after the small boards (cards) filled with bent wires that were once used to accomplish this task. Traditional hand cards look like oversized "pin" brushes used to groom pets.  Modern carding dates from the use of revolving cylinders patented in 1748 by Lewis Paul. A mechanical apron was devised in 1772 and a funnel was added that contracted the carded fiber into a continuous sliver. Carding cleans foreign matter from the wool and helps align the fibers.
"Carry-on" refers to the size of various types of luggage or packs. Specifically, it means that a bag or suitcase is designed to be handheld and small enough to carry on to a commercial aircraft. Please be sure to check with individual airlines for measurement guidelines for carry-on luggage.
Casual Friday
The Business Casual movement probably started with Casual Friday. It began in work environments where the dress code leaned a bit to the formal side. One day, someone in the Human Resources department conceived of Casual Friday as a way to reward employees for a good week's work. "Wear something comfortable," they said. "You know, like chinos and a polo."  Or, perhaps an employee conceived Casual Friday as a way to aggravate someone in HR so they conspired with a couple of co-workers to dress down one Friday. "Wear something comfortable," they said. "You know, like jeans and a T-shirt."  Either way, it stuck. And for many companies, Fridays may never be the same again.
Cavalry Twill
Cavalry twill is a sturdy wool or cotton fabric with a steep, pronounced double-twill effect. Originally a staple army fabric, with a clear, hard finish, it is now used in jackets, suits, coats, riding pants, sportswear and uniforms.
Chain Stitch
A chain stitch is an embroidery or crochet stitch that forms connecting links like a chain. It's also a machine-sewing stitch in which the looping of the threads forms a chain on the underside of the work. A large variety of threads can be used — from the finest silk to ribbon.  The chain stitch is one of the oldest decorative stitches and is widespread throughout the world. It is believed to have originated in Persia and India, where it is still worked with the aid of a fine hook. In the West, this tool, which looks like a crochet hook, is known as a "tambour" hook.
Originally, chambray was a plain-woven fabric made from cotton using a colored (usually blue) warp (length-wise yarns) and white weft (filling, horizontal yarns). Modern fabrications now include plain weaves in many different colors as well as prints and patterns. Chambray is typically soft, closely woven, strong and smooth, with a slightly faded look.
When you see the term "Child-safe" on one of our products, you can be sure the item meets or exceeds recommended safety guidelines or requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Commission.  For instance, there are very strict regulations regarding children's sleepwear.  All children's pajamas, robes and nighties sized 9 months to big kids' size 14 are required to be flame-resistant and snug-fitting. Our designers, fit specialists and quality assurance technicians work diligently to comply with these regulations.
Chinos are an immensely popular type of casual pants made from chino fabric. The fabric is a twill weave of all cotton or a cotton/polyester blend. Durable, closely woven and lightweight, chino fabric was originally used for warm-weather army uniforms. "Chinos" is often used interchangeably with "khakis," as the original chinos were often khaki-colored. Modern chinos wash and wear well, with minimal care required, come in several different colors and are the uniform of many.
Circular Knitting
Circular knitting is a type of weft knitting (yarns running crosswise or in a circle) in which the fabric is produced in the form of a tube using a continuous thread.  The knitting machine needles are mounted on a single cylinder (for flat knits) or a double cylinder (for ribs). As the cylinder turns, the needles interlock loops of yarn, beginning at the top and working toward the bottom. Circular knitting is most commonly used to create seamless hosiery and underwear. We make the necks of our popular seamless-neck Turtles using this technique for smooth, uninterrupted comfort.
Traditionally, a clog is an open-backed shoe made from a single block of wood. Modeled after the thick wood-soled Dutch klompen, clogs were all the rage in the US in the late 1970s. Not surprising, really. After all, a shoe style that's been popular for 4 or 5 centuries must have something going for it.  One thing clogs offered was great protection. Thick soles kept feet up and away from wet or muddy ground and the wood was a great barrier to nails, rocks or any other potentially dangerous objects one might encounter.  These days, lighter-weight materials make clogs an especially comfortable and convenient style of footwear. Curved insoles follow the natural contours of the feet, providing greater support than the models of yesteryear. And the slip-on design makes getting in and out quick and effortless — perfect for today's busy lifestyles.
Closed-Cell Foam
Closed-cell foam is synthetic material used in shoemaking, usually as a cushioning material for insoles. Chemicals called "blowing agents" are added to synthetic rubber or plastics to produce a foam during molding. The "cells" occur as bubbles in this foam, which hardens into a molded shape. Closed cells compress less and make a denser end product than their "open cell" counterparts.
Hook-and-Eye Closure
A hook-and-eye closure is a fastening system invented in the 17th century. Typically, one to three metal eyelets are attached to one side or piece of a garment and one to three corresponding hooked prongs are attached to the opposite side. The garment is fastened together by linking the hooks through the eyelets. Hook-and-eye closures are used in everything from brassieres to the waistbands of pants.
Club Length
Possibly the only time when "club length" doesn't refer to your golf clubs is when we use the term to describe the length of shorts with an inseam generally between 8" and 12" long.
"Colorfastness" describes a dyed fabric's ability to resist fading. Color has many natural enemies, including repeated laundering, exposure to sunlight, saltwater, sand and chlorine, among others.  Whenever possible, we use long-lasting dyes and dyeing techniques (such as yarn-dyeing) to ensure the colors of your garment stay true and bright for years to come.
Combed Cotton
Combed Wool
Carded wool is sometimes further refined by a combing process, which cleans the wool fibers even more thoroughly, removing impurities (called "noils") and aligning the fibers so that once spun, the yarn feels smoother and softer. Many shorter fibers are removed by this process, which also makes the yarn stronger. Combing after carding removes about one-fourth of the material, so the process is expensive, but the result is a better grade of wool yarn and a stronger, softer garment.
Como Silk
Only the world's finest tie silk merits the title Como Silk. This high-quality silk, made in Como, Italy, makes each Lands' End tie a valued wardrobe accessory. The design and manufacture of each silk pattern is influenced by the Silk Technical College in Como — the finest in Italy and, perhaps, in the world. Como continues to be the world leader in producing tie silk.
CoolMax® is a performance fabric renowned for its ability to wick moisture away from skin to the surface of a garment. There, moisture evaporates more quickly to help keep you dry and comfortable. Special fibers in the fabric also provide exceptional breathability, even when wet, to further regulate body temperatures.
Coolmax® Fiber
CoolMax® fabrics contain Dacron® fibers, a proprietary polyester product manufactured by DuPont. These fibers are the key component in giving CoolMax fabric its moisture-wicking and thermo-regulatory properties.
Cordura® Nylon
Nylon is a man-made fiber first introduced in 1939. It quickly became a popular fabric for clothing due to its smooth, silky hand, strength, wrinkle-resistance and ease of care. Cordura® nylon is an especially tenacious fabric made by DuPont. Its light weight, abrasion resistance and durability make it particularly well-suited for backpacks, duffel bags and luggage.
Corduroy Pants
Derived from the French "cord du roi" (King's cord), this plush ribbed cotton fabric has become a favorite of commoners worldwide. Its velvety ridges are formed during the weaving process, where fill (weft) yarns are passed over the top of several warp yarns in a row.  This forms rows of overlying loops, which are then precisely cut with rotary knives, being careful not to damage the warp yarn underneath the loops. Washing and brushing fluffs and softens the "hedgerows" of cut yarn ends, forming the cushiony ribs that are so inviting to the touch.  Lands' End corduroy is unusually plush and long-lasting. Due to a special weaving process that locks the cut fibers in place, we can confidently assure you that our corduroys will stay plush longer, and never "go bald."
Cork/Latex Footbed
Cork/latex composite is the material used to create the footbeds for Lands' End Comfort Sandals. Ground natural cork is bonded together with natural latex. As you wear your Comfort Sandals, the suede-covered cork/latex footbed will mold itself to adopt the shape of your foot, for unprecedented comfort and support.
Cotton Canvas
Cotton canvas is a sturdy, heavy fabric made from coarse, hard-twisted cotton yarns. Lighter weight variations of canvas are sometimes called "duck."  Canvas was originally made for sails because the tightly woven cloth was perfect for trapping a breeze. Plus, the heavy weight and exceptional durability proved to be just the ticket for long, arduous sea voyages.  Still used for sails, canvas is also a practical fabric for work coats, casual pants, shoes and totes thanks to its toughness and durability.
Cotton/Lycra® Leggings
Three design features help our leggings fit and feel better. First, they resist twisting because they're cut to your body's contours instead of just a straight taper. Second, substantial "body" in the fabric helps them keep their shape (your shape) and lets them hug you without binding. And third, the elastic waistband is covered, so it always feels comfortable — never "pinchy" — next to your skin.
Covert Twill
Covert twill is a rugged twill fabric, usually wool, woven from a twisted yarn, blending two colors—usually black or brown—for a subtly flecked look.  From the French word for "to hide," covert was originally used for hunting jackets. When hunting guides or poachers hid in thickets or "coverts," their twill wouldn't snag or tear. Today covert twill is most often used in longwearing suits and topcoats.  It is also made waterproof for use in rainwear. Light in weight, with a hard texture, covert twill can be woven of worsted wool, cotton or spun rayon.
"Cowhide" refers specifically to leather made from the hide of a cow but is sometimes used to describe leathers made from the hides of other bovines (bison, oxen, buffalo).  Thanks to its durability, ease of care and water resistance, cowhide is the most commonly used leather for apparel and other leather goods. In clothing, cowhide maintains its integrity and conforms to the wearer's shape, making it more comfortable with time.
A cowl, or cowlneck, is a large draped collar made of attached fabric. The fabric is often bias cut (a technique of cutting diagonally across a fabric, which enhances drape and fluidity) and falls softly to the top of the shoulders.
Named for the style of shirts worn by crew racers in the 1800s, the crewneck is a high, round collarless neckline with a rib finishing.
Cross Stitch
Used in decorative motifs, the cross stitch is made by carrying one yarn over another to form a cross (x). Sometimes known as a marking stitch, it is extremely quick and easy to work, usually on even-weave fabrics. The cross stitch is one of the oldest stitches in history and is still used extensively today.
Curl-Resistant Knit Collar
You can find polo shirts nearly anywhere, but few are made with the fussy details you'll find in ours. Among other details is the "curl-resistant" collar; a rib collar that lies flat and stays that way, for a neater overall appearance.
Curtain Waistband
A curtain waistband is a prefabricated waistband facing consisting of a strip of firmly woven fabric attached to a bias-cut piece of interfacing. The lower edge of the curtain is a bias-cut fold of fabric. This type of waistband lies smooth and flat and expands to fit body contours. It also allows easier alterations and helps prevent unsightly waistband "rollover."
Cushioned Insole
A cushioned insole characterizes the footbed of a shoe equipped for shock-absorption and comfort.
Deck Shoe
A deck shoe is a specialized shoe designed for walking on slippery surfaces. It can be an athletic shoe, an oxford or even a sandal — and may be fashioned of leather, canvas or synthetic materials. The common feature is a non-slip sole, usually with siping (razor-thin slits) that provides superior traction on wet surfaces. EVA is a synthetic material frequently used for the outsole, though less exotic rubber materials are sometimes used.
Desert Boot
Desert boots allegedly take their name from the footwear worn by England's 7th Armored Division — known as the Desert Rats for their march through North Africa. Essentially shoes with high tops, desert boots help keep the sand out.  Desert boots are made primarily of sueded cowhide or calfskin. Though similar in appearance to chukka boots, desert boots are usually lined and have smooth rubber soles. Chukka boots are mostly unlined and have thicker crepe-rubber soles.
Direct Merchant
A direct merchant is what Lands' End is. We contract directly with manufacturers and sell directly to the public, eliminating the middleman and his markup.
Double-Hook Closure
A double-hook closure is a fastening system used primarily in bras and the waistbands of pants. Two metal eyelets are attached to one side or piece of the garment and two corresponding hooked prongs are attached to the opposite side. The garment is fastened together by linking the hooks through the eyelets.
Double-knit fabric is produced on a circular knitting machine equipped with 2 sets of needles at right angles to each other. Double-knit fabrics have 2 knit faces (surfaces) whose natural "twist" or "torque" oppose each other, resulting in a fabric with better drape and shapekeeping ability.
Double-Needle Stitching
In double-needle stitching, a machine equipped with two needles simultaneously sews two parallel, independent rows of stitches. This type of stitching makes a stronger seam at armholes and necklines, where there's more wear and tear. We use double-needle stitching at these points on our knit shirts and on side seams in our tailored shirts.
Double-welt construction incorporates a flat inside seam with a larger seam allowanced, pressed to one side and reinforced with an additional row of topstitching; also called a mock flat-felled seam. Used for heavier fabrics too bulky for flat-felled seams.
Double-Welt Pocket
A double-welt pocket on a jacket or pants has narrow welted edges above and below the pocket opening.
Double-woven fabric is a pile fabric produced by weaving two knit fabrics together with float yarns between the two. An automatic knife cuts the fabrics apart and the float yarns become the pile.
Down Around® Pillow
Down Around® is our registered trademark for a pillow with 2 firmly packed feather chambers surrounded by white goose down. The interior chambers provide extra support, and the adjustable down provides extra softness for your head and neck.
Down Embrace® Pillow
Down Embrace® is our registered trademark for a pillow with 2 firmly packed down-filled cores surrounded by white goose down. The interior chambers provide premium support, and the adjustable down provides extra softness for your head and neck.
"Down-filled" indicates that a product is insulated with a fill of goose down. Ounce for ounce, down is the most effective insulation known to man (or goose).
"Drape" refers to a fabric's quality of forming graceful configurations as it hangs; bias-cut fabrics are prized for this quality.
"Drape-ability" refers to a fabric's ability to form graceful configurations as it hangs; bias-cut fabrics are especially prized in this regard.
A drawcord is a cord sewn into the waistband of pants, bottom of jacket, or other garment opening and used to cinch the opening. It is commonly used to "windproof" outerwear or to adjust the fit of elastic-waist pants.
Dress Down
To "dress down" is to adopt a more casual style of habiliment.
Drifter™ Sweater
A Drifter™ Sweater is the Lands' End "Better Cotton Sweater," knit with 2-ply yarns of combed, long-staple cotton and constructed with all the make and detail of its woolly brethren. Notable is the use of full fashioning, a method whereby body, sleeves, etc. are knit to size, piece by piece, and hand-linked for a natural fit that shows you at your finest.
Driving Mocs
Driving mocs are soft, lightweight moccasin-style loafers designed for comfort while driving. Though they are essentially without an outer sole, many good-quality driving mocs incorporate small bumps on the bottom of the sole to improve traction on the pedals. Usually, the heel is rounded and seamless, and the traction bumps extend up the heel to prevent scuffing and wear while driving.
Drum dyeing is a method of leather dyeing wherein hides are tumbled in drums containing dyes. This method results in color penetration all the way through the skin, front to back.
Duck Cloth
Duck cloth is a heavy cotton plain-weave; similar to canvas, but somewhat lighter in weight.
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Easy-care fabrics are characterized by ease of maintenance; they are machine-washable and usually no-iron or wrinkle-resistant.
Easy-Care Slacks
When freshly laundered slacks can be restored to their original appearance with a minimum of attention, we consider them easy-care.  Lands' End offers casual and tailored slacks that touch up nicely with just a bit of ironing, or none at all. Our Carefree Chinos are 100% cotton twill, but a special wrinkle-resistant finish lets you make them presentable with just a touch of the iron.  Our Tailored Twills are made in a Cotton/Polyester blend that shrugs off wrinkles and requires only the slightest ironing to put them in great shape. Even our 100% Cotton Tailored Twills are remarkably resistant to wrinkling, thanks to an ingenious new finish.  And remember — all these slacks are Guaranteed. Period.® So if they fail to meet your standards for easy care, just return them for a full refund.
Elastic Waist
An elastic waist is one that uses elastic to accommodate waistlines of several sizes.
Elastic Waistband
An elastic waistband has elastic inserted into a stitched-down casing or sewn directly to the fabric. This type of waistband allows a bit more give than a traditionally styled waistband. Wider elastic waistbands have a firmer feel.
An elastomer is a synthetic polymer having properties similar to natural rubber, such as stretch and recovery.
Embossing is the art of stamping or printing a texture or other graphic element on leather goods. Moc Croc is calfskin embossed with a reptile pattern.
Engraving is a method of ornamenting metal by incising lines into the surface with a cutting tool. Engraving is used to add a monogram to belt buckles or jewelry.
EVA is the abbreviation for "ethylene vinyl acetate," a synthetic material used for outsoles whose characteristic property is lightness.
EVA Sole
A sole made of ethylene vinyl acetate resin is called an EVA sole. EVA is a durable plastic foam material, used mainly for shoe insoles, mats for martial arts, and cushions for machinery. In the sole of a shoe, EVA delivers the benefits of comfort, flexibility and light weight.  
Faille is a soft, glossy woven fabric with a crossgrain rib or cord resulting from the use of heavier yarns in the fill, lighter yarns in the warp.
Fair Isle
Fair Isle is a traditional sweater pattern named for Fair Isle off the coast of Scotland. The pattern is characterized by heathered yarns in contrasting colors.
A felled seam is a fully enclosed inside seam. Both seam allowances are folded under and enclosed beneath parallel rows of machine-stitching.
"Fiber-reactive" characterizes one class of water-soluble anionic dyes that react with cellulose fibers, such as cotton, linen or rayon, by chemically bonding to the cellulose, resulting in superior colorfastness in the finished goods.
Field Coat
A field coat is a traditional style of single-breasted, button-front canvas coat which falls to the hip and has two tiers of overlapping front pockets and corduroy collar and cuffs.
Fill Yarns
Weft, or "fill," yarns are those that run back and forth across the width of a piece of woven fabric, at right angles to the warp yarns, which run longitudinally. On a traditional loom, the warp yarns are strung vertically (as the operator faces the machine) on rollers and the fill yarns are woven horizontally between the warp yarns.
Fine Gauge
A fine-gauge sweater is one knit with especially fine yarns for ease of layering. Notable in Lands' End Cotton Fine-Gauge Sweaters is the use of full fashioning, a method whereby body, sleeves, etc. are knit to size, piece by piece, and hand-linked for a natural fit that shows you at your finest.
"Fineline" is a category of twill weave having especially narrow and closely spaced diagonal ribs.
Fine-Wale Corduroy
Corduroy is a cotton pile fabric known for its strength and durability. Extra sets of filling yarns are woven into the fabric to form vertical ridges on the surface. These ridges, called wales, are usually made in one of three widths. The narrowest width is called "fine wale" (sometimes "pinwale"); the medium width is usually called "regular"; and the widest is simply called "wide wale." Choosing a wale width is more a matter of personal preference than of function.
First Clip
First clip lambswool is obtained from the young lamb's first shearing at around age 8 months. It possesses superior spinning properties because the fiber has a natural tip. After the first clip, wool no longer has an uncut tip.
Children's sleepwear must be flame-resistant. Flame-resistant material either burns slowly or is self-extinguishing when removed from the ignition source. This is usually achieved by treating the fabric with a flame-retardant chemical during manufacture.
Flannel is a medium-weight woven fabric, either plainweave or twill, that is brushed to give it a slightly napped surface. Most often of cotton or wool, it can be made of other fibers as well.
Flapped Pocket
A flapped pocket requires one to lift a covering to access the opening.
Flat-Felled Seam
A flat-felled seam is created when the raw edges of both seam allowances are folded under as the seam is stitched. This is a strong and durable seam often used on pajamas.
Fleece Booties
Fleece booties are soft, slip-on footwear for babies. Fleece is known for its warmth and moisture-wicking properties, keeping baby's feet dry and comfy.
Fleece Slippers
Fleece slippers are made with uppers and a footbed of fleece, and an outer sole of conventional material, such as rubber. Fleece is a soft, deep-pile synthetic fabric that provides excellent warmth with little weight.
In a woven fabric, a float is the portion of a yarn that extends unbound over 2 or more adjacent picks (fill yarns) or ends (warp yarns). Floats are what gives twill its characteristic diagonal rib. In a knit, floats are yarns that extend unbound over yarns without being interlaced. Some inexpensive methods of producing argyle knits will leave unsightly floats on the reverse side of the fabric. Lands' End produces argyles as intarsia knits with both sides of the fabric smooth and float-free.
French Fly
A French fly is a tailoring detail characteristic of high-quality trousers. A French fly has a tab or extension which buttons to the inside of the pants near the waist. This provides support and helps make the front of the pants look neat and smooth.
Full-Grain Leather
Full-grain leather is the unaltered surface of the hide, on which minor imperfections will be visible, adding character to the leather. Because the surface can be seen, only premium leathers are full top grain, chosen because they have minimal scars, bug bites and other "flaws." Typically, full-grain leather is aniline-dyed but not buffed or sanded.
Full Lining
A lining in most garments serves several purposes. It helps give the garment a finished look. Its smooth surface makes it easier to slip the garment on and off. And sometimes a lining provides extra warmth or body. A "full" lining means that the entire inside of the garment is lined: a jacket's body and sleeves; trousers' trunk and legs. A partial lining is better than none, but a full lining is much better.
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Gabardine is a tightly woven twill with a fine and closely set diagonal rib and a clear (un-napped) finish. Gabardine may be wool, cotton, silk or other fibers.
Garment-washing is the laundering of finished garments as part of their production process. This may involve pumice, sand or bleaching agents to create a weathered appearance (as in the case of denim jeans) or enzymes and other softening agents. Garment-washing is also used to ensure shrinkage control, especially in the case of cotton knits.
In knitted fabrics, gauge is the measure of fineness or number of wales per unit across a fabric. The higher the gauge, the finer the fabric.
Gauntlet is a style of above-the-wrist glove with a wide, flaring cuff.
Gift Boxing
Gift boxing is a service Lands' End is happy to provide for a nominal charge. We'll even include a gift card with your special message for the recipient.
Gift Set
A gift set consists of glassware, place settings or soft goods such as towels or bedding sold together as a set. For soft goods, we offer special prices for monogramming the entire set.
Gingham is a lightweight cotton plainweave fabric. It is especially characterized by a distinctive 2-color balanced plaid called a check, although gingham is also produced in solid colors and in plaids. Technically speaking, the brightly colored Madras fabrics are, in fact, a variety of gingham.
Giza 70 Cotton
Giza cotton refers specifically to a variety of cotton grown in Egypt. Generally considered to be among the world's best, Giza is renowned for its long-staple fibers and incredible softness.  The internationally recognized numbering system for cotton indicates the relative size of the cotton yarns used in any particular fabric. Lower numbers indicate heavier yarns, higher numbers indicate finer yarns.  Giza 70 cotton is exceptionally fine and used to produce long-looped towels that are silky-soft, highly absorbent and very strong.
Glen Plaid
Glen Plaid is a popular Scottish pattern used for suiting and characterized by 2 checks of different sizes. It is also known as glen urquhart plaid.
Glove Leather
Glove leather refers in a general way to any leather soft and supple enough to be used for making gloves. Usually, leather from sheep, lamb, deer, pig, goat and mocha skin is used for dress gloves. Less supple but longer-wearing leather from horsehide, cattlehide, calfskin, sheepskin and pigskin is used for work gloves. When a jacket, coat or vest is described as "glove leather," you can expect it to be unusually pliant and soft.
Goat Suede
Goat suede is goatskin leather finished with a soft nap. It is generally softer than calfskin suede and is prized in apparel for its fluid drape and silky texture.
Goose Down Pillow
Down makes the softest, most adjustable pillow you can sleep on. Ours is 575 fill power white goose down (doesn't show through the pillow casing like gray down) that is soft as a cloud and can be plumped or squashed however you like.
Gore-Tex® is the trade name for a patented membrane that is laminated to performance fabrics for waterproofing. The key benefit of Gore-Tex is that it is both waterproof and breathable. The microporous surface repels droplets of rain and snow, but allows water vapor from the wearer's body to escape through the tiny pores in its surface.
Great Go-Togethers
Some clothes were meant for each other. Great Go-Togethers is a Lands' End program that pairs up Lands' End items that especially complement each other. Catalog and website features may present these "naturals," or our friendly phone operators may offer suggestions when you call.
Grosgrain is a heavy fabric, usually silk or rayon, characterized by prominent ribs. Grosgrain has a dressy appearance and is mostly used for ribbons, millinery, decorative trim and liturgical vestments.
Guaranteed. Period.®
Guaranteed. Period.® is Lands' End's guarantee to you, and means just what it says: "If you are not completely satisfied with any item you buy from us, at any time during your use of it, return it and we will refund your full purchase price."
A gusset is a construction detail wherein pieces of fabric are set into a seam or seam intersection to add fullness to a garment or to ease the restrictiveness of a close-fitting garment, allowing greater freedom of movement. A gusset may also add capacity to a set-on pocket.
Hand Grafting
Hand grafting is a manual method of joining together the knit components of a full-fashioned sweater into a finished garment. Hand-grafting allows an increase or decrease in the number of stitches, helping to shape the finished piece. Visible "full-fashioning marks" are the signature of this technique.
Handwarmer Pocket
A handwarmer pocket can often be found on either side of outerwear garments (such as jackets and parkas), frequently hidden behind larger flapped pockets, and positioned to allow easy hand entry.  
Harris Tweed
Harris Tweeds are handwoven woolens produced under cottage-industry conditions on the islands of the Outer Hebrides off Scotland's northern coast. Harris Tweed® is a trademark of the Harris Tweed Association. A garment of genuine Harris Tweed is affixed with the Association's Orb Mark label and bears a registration number.
Headbands are to hats what convertibles are to cars: open at the top. Lands' End makes a favorite ear-warming style in genuine Polartec®.
A heavy-gauge knit is constructed with fewer wales per unit across a fabric or, if a circular knit, with a fewer number of needles. It may also employ a coarse or large-diameter yarn.
Hemmed Sleeve
A hemmed sleeve has a straight, unrestricted arm opening finished with a hemmed edge, as opposed to a banded sleeve, which more closely encircles the arm.
"Hemming" is finishing the lower edge of a garment to a specified length. If you buy a pair of pants from Lands' End, we'll hem them to suit you. Plain bottoms, cuffs — you make the call. Just make sure to allow an extra day or two for delivery.
Hemstitching is a decorative embroidery stitch along the hem of a garment.
Herringbone Weave
A herringbone weave is a "broken" twill characterized by a balanced zigzag pattern wherein the twill's distinctive diagonal rib runs first left then right for an equal number of threads.
Garments designed to meet the demands of extreme conditions or strenuous service are often designated "high-performance" garments. They're often constructed with "high-tech" synthetic materials designed for function-specific applications, such as waterproofing, moisture transport, abrasion resistance, etc.
Synthetic materials designed for function-specific applications, such as waterproofing, moisture-transport, abrasion-resistance, etc., are often designated "high-tech," short for "high-technology."
Yarns or filaments can be combined into a single yarn by twisting them together mechanically. Twisting adds strength, smoothness and uniformity to the finished yarn. A very high degree of twist added to singles or plied yarns can also produce novelty effects, such as crepe.
Hiking Boot
Hiking boots come in many variations, but most are made with some type of leather uppers, padded collars and soft leather linings. Front-lacing through riveted D-rings and speed hooks at the top provide extra stability and ankle support. Cushioned insoles add comfort, and welded lug soles offer better traction over uneven terrains.
A hook and eye is a set of wire garment fasteners wherein an engaging hook sewn onto one face of a closure interlocks with a receptacle eye sewn onto the opposite face.
"Hopsack" is a catchall term for basketweave fabrics. Real hopsacking, also known as burlap, is a coarse plainweave of undyed jute fibers used for sacking.
Houndstooth Check Weave
A houndstooth check weave is a distinctive pointed check produced by a two-up, two-down twill using 2 yarns of contrasting colors in groups of 4 in both warp and fill. In England, they call it "dogtooth."
Hyde Park® Oxford
"Indomitable" was our watchword when we created the Lands' End Hyde Park Oxford. Cut from a weave of 40s singles by 20s two-ply cotton yarns, the resultant cloth is 25% sturdier than most department store Oxfords. The Hyde Park holds to a pressing like a miser to a dollar. Putting in long hours? This is the one, sir.
In Greek, "hydrophilic" means "water-loving." Hydrophilic fibers attract and absorb moisture readily. They are used in high-performance applications to wick moisture away from the skin during strenuous physical activity.
Hypoallergenic materials have a decreased tendency to provoke an allergic reaction, usually through the exclusion of common allergens.
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Injection Molding
Injection molding is a fabrication method whereby a fluid compound is forced under pressure into a mold where it sets up in solid form. Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR) is injection-molded to make outsoles for boots and shoes.
Inner Mongolian Fleece
The world's finest cashmere is combed (never clipped) from the silky underbellies of rugged little goats who inhabit Inner Mongolia's meager grassland. Where the climate is harsh, the cashmere grows lush — but scarce. In a season, each goat yields a mere 4 ounces. It takes 4 goats to produce enough cashmere for just one of our Lands' End Cashmere Sweaters.
An inseam is a pants seam along the inside of the leg. The inseam measurement is used to designate pants length.
Often placed between the lining and the outer fabric of a garment, interfacing is a woven or knit material used to support, reinforce and give shape to that part of the garment. Some interfacings are designed to be fused to the outer fabric (adhered with heat from an iron), while others are meant to be stitched to the fabric.  Dress shirt collars, for example, usually employ interfacing for extra shape-holding and durability. The collars in our dress shirts (unlike many) are unfused. This allows the surface fabric to "float" and assume a more natural shape, rolling smoothly and gracefully around a knotted tie.
Interlock is a unique, cushiony rib-stitch knit — technically, alternate rows of knit and purl stitches that interlock as semicircular loops in the crosswise (weft) direction on both the face and the back of the fabric. In effect, it is two separate 1 x 1 ribbed fabrics that are interknitted. As a result, the fabric has two "good" sides.  Interlock stitch fabrics are thicker, loftier, stretchier and more stable than single-knit constructions — which is why we use them for our Turtlenecks, Mocks and Peruvian Pima Polos.
Interlock Knit
Interlock is a unique, cushiony rib-stitch knit — technically, alternate rows of knit and purl stitches that interlock as semicircular loops in the crosswise (weft) direction on both the face and the back of the fabric. In effect, it is two separate 1 x 1 ribbed fabrics that are interknitted. As a result, the fabric has two "good" sides.  Interlock stitch fabrics are thicker, loftier, stretchier and more stable than single-knit constructions — which is why we use them, to name just a few instances, in our Turtlenecks, Mocks, and Peruvian Pima Polos, as well as our Necessary Knits for women.
Intimate Blend
A technique for blending 2 or more dissimilar fibers in a very uniform mixture. Intimate blends are usually created for enhanced fabric performance or appearance.
Iron Knee™
Our invisible polyester internal patch that adds double the durability where pants need it most.
Jacquard Knit
A weft doubleknit fabric in which a Jacquard type of mechanism is used. This device individually controls needles or small groups of needles and allows very complex and highly patterned knits to be created. (See Jacquard weave.)
Jacquard Weave
Joseph Marie Jacquard invented this elaborate, decorative weaving technique in France in 1801. A special loom uses a punch card to individually control each of the warp yarns, much like a player piano does to control individual hammers. This permits the user to "preprogram" a pattern that is woven directly into the fabric. Brocade, damask and tapestry are particular types of jacquard woven fabrics.
Jersey Knit
First made on the Island of Jersey off the English coast and used for fisherman's clothing, jersey fabrics are knit with a smooth, unribbed surface. Jersey is typically very elastic and drapes gracefully. Due to its construction, it is also very durable and resists creases extremely well. These qualities make it ideal for use in many of our knit garments, including a variety of Polos and our Super-T™.
In the US, a jumper is a loose, sleeveless dress or shift, usually without buttons or zippers, worn over a blouse or sweater. In England, a jumper is a pullover top, usually a knit sweater. In Canada, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police used to call their red tunics jumpers (and maybe still do). The term seems to be derived from the Arabic "jubba," a long garment with wide, open sleeves.
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Kindest Cut®
A registered trademark applied to Lands’ End women’s swimwear. It refers to a combination of fit features, including extra room in the seat and bust, straps that stay in place and fabrics that bend and stretch, resulting in a fit that is virtually tugless and kind to a woman’s curves.  The Kindest Cut® is what sets our swimwear apart. It's a fit designed for real women, not willowy models. Kindest Cut suits are made from fabrics that move comfortably with you. And they give you plenty of options for enhancing your figure.  "Kindest Cut" also refers to consistency in fit between suit styles, so once you know your Lands' End size, you're set. You'll find that our suits offer the best combination of fit, function, flattery and fashion.
Knee Socks
Knee socks rise to just below the knees. When long dresses were in their heyday, beige-colored nylon knee socks were in demand. Today, knee socks are seen everywhere — in an array of colors and patterns. They're available in a variety of knit fabrics  — wool, cotton, silk, synthetics and blends. Lycra® spandex is frequently added for shape retention.  Apart from fashion trends, knee socks are often a requirement in girls' school uniforms. Specially made knee socks provide extra compression to improve blood circulation.
The first clip of wool sheared from lambs up to eight months old. The wool is soft, smooth, and is used in fine-grade woolen fabrics.
Lands' End Exclusive
The term "Lands' End Exclusive" denotes a new product designed by and manufactured solely for Lands' End, and available nowhere else. Typically, a Lands' End Exclusive will feature an innovative product concept, fabric, style or design that is new to the marketplace. Special introductory pricing coupled with our consistently high quality make each "Exclusive" an extraordinary value.
Layering is the scientifically sound strategy of wearing specific layers of clothing as a superior way to stay warm. The number and nature of these layers can vary considerably, depending on the severity of the weather, the type of activity involved, and the person's metabolic level.  Typically, a layering strategy would include an inner "wicking" layer to channel moisture away from the body; an insulating layer to trap heat; and an outer protective layer to turn away wind and precipitation while still allowing air circulation.  Lands' End outerwear (and underwear) is designed for smart layering, and can be combined in many ways for optimum comfort in all weather conditions.
Lighthouse® Luggage
The Cordura® nylon in our improved Lighthouse® II luggage is 7 times stronger than the pretty-tough ordinary nylon we used before. Yet each bag weighs less, thanks to its innovative frameless construction.  Lighthouse Wheeled Pullmans have a protective shell of 1000-denier Cordura nylon with bound seams and roll easily on large, virtually indestructible inline skate wheels. Lighthouse Duffels come in sizes for every need and last virtually forever, thanks to sturdy construction, bound seams and self-repairing coil zippers.  No matter how or where you travel, Lighthouse can make your trip easier and keep your belongings secure.
Lined Fly
A lined fly is a tailoring detail characteristic of high-quality trousers. A lining fabric covers inside seams, shielding the wearer from chafing.
Some sweaters are constructed by cutting the fronts, backs and sleeves from pre-knit fabric of a fixed width, then sewn together. Better sweaters are knit to shape, each panel separately. These panels are then "linked" together with the same yarn used in the sweater panels. This superior method of construction is called "full-fashioning," and is detectable by the neat rows of tiny puckers where the panels are linked.  Some high-quality sweaters, like our Mongolian Cashmere Sweaters, are "hand-linked" — notably at the cuffs, bottom hems, and collars. Hand-linking produces a virtually undetectable transition between one panel and its neighbor.
A trademarked term, "loafer" is commonly used in a general sense to refer to a low leather step-in shoe (no shoelaces) with an upper resembling a moccasin but with a broad, flat heel. Once considered appropriate only for lounging or sportswear (hence "loafer,") good leather loafers today are also accepted as business footwear in all but the most formal situations.
Loden Cloth
One day back in the 11th century, Tyrolean (Austrian Alps) shepherds (loderers) experimented with washing their wool coats by stomping on them in a tub of hot water. Naturally, they shrank. But the process made the garments warmer and more water-resistant. Ever since, that "felting" process has been at the heart of producing loden cloth.   Our loden outerwear comes from Tiroler Loden, the world's most famous makers of loden cloth. The water they use to felt their unique Merino lambswool blend is pure snow water, filtered for a century as it descends the granite Southern Alps.  After the fabric is stabilized, it is combed six times, then brushed with specially grown natural thistles, which creates a softer nap. The result is an unusually rich-looking, long-wearing garment. As they say in Austria, "When you buy a coat made of Tiroler Loden, you buy it for life!"
Long-Staple Cotton
Long-staple cotton refers to cotton fibers that are typically 1/2" to 2" in length. Long-staple cotton takes longer to grow than short-staple varieties and is considerably stronger, softer and more supple. Staple fibers longer than 1-1/2" produce the highest-quality cotton fabrics and are used mainly for luxurious towels, bed linens and dress shirts. Long-staple cotton varieties include Pima and Egyptian.
Lug Sole
A lug sole is thick, with deep indentations that improve stability and traction. This rugged sole was introduced on utility footwear, such as work boots. Today, many types of shoes are made with lug soles, including hikers, casual shoes and wading shoes. The lug sole can be made of rubber or synthetic materials such as Vibram® or TSD.
Wheeled Luggage
A good question to ask about wheeled luggage is, "How well does it roll?" All Lands' End wheeled luggage incorporates large, in-line skate wheels. Larger wheels make rolling easier. Sealed ball bearings reduce friction and stay lubricated forever. The tough wheel material holds up to endless miles of abuse, and the wheels turn on a dime without binding. Plus they're set well apart from each other, in a wide stance that maximizes stability — no wrestling to keep your luggage upright.
Lycra® Spandex
Lycra® spandex is an elastomeric fiber that can be repeatedly stretched over 500% without breaking, and will still recover to its original length. Spandex fibers are lighter in weight than rubber thread, and unlike rubber, they do not break down with exposure to body oils, perspiration, lotions or detergents. Always blended with other fibers, Lycra® spandex is used in tight, body-hugging garments.
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Originating in Madras, India, Madras cloth is a fine plain-woven cotton shirt and dress fabric, usually in bright plaids. The fabric's light weight makes it a cool garment that is comfortable in hot weather and tropical climates. Historically, Madras was not colorfast, and the dyes would bleed with each washing. These days, most people prefer crisp, long-lasting colors, and the dyes we specify do not bleed or run. (Occasionally we offer a "classic" version, for those who prefer a more traditional look.)  Although modern "Madras" can be made anywhere, by a variety of methods, all Lands' End Madras is still made in Madras, India, by the native artisans who developed the process many years ago.
Marled yarn is spun from differently colored fibers. The various colors can appear randomly or regularly on the top surface of the fabric, adding textural and design interest.
French for "cushioned" or "padded," matelassé is a highly textured cloth, usually with an intricate pattern. Two yarns are woven together on a jacquard or dobby loom, in a double cloth weave. The pattern stands out and gives a "pouched" or "quilted" effect to the fabric that is a delight to feel and won't come out in the wash.  All Lands' End matelassé bedding is authentic and shows the close attention to detail for which our Portuguese artisans are famous.
Mechanical Stretch
"Mechanical stretch" refers to the elasticity of a fabric or seam that is a result of its construction rather than the use of synthetic "stretch" materials. As an example, jersey and interlock knits will stretch much more readily than a woven broadcloth. Similarly, the stitching in seams can be engineered to provide greater or lesser degrees of stress.  Generally, greater stretch means increased mobility and comfort, with less fabric strain.
Mercerization, named for John Mercer, who discovered the process in 1844, is a treatment of cotton yarn or fabric during which it is immersed in a sodium hydroxide solution and later neutralized. The process causes a permanent swelling of the fiber, resulting in an increased brightness and luster on the surface of the fabric. Mercerization also increases the strength of the yarn or fabric, reduces pilling, and enhances its ability to absorb and retain dyes.
Merino Wool
Merino wool comes from merino sheep and produces a high-quality yarn which is fine, strong, resilient and takes dyes well. Merino sheep, originally from Spain, are noted for their herding instincts and hardiness.  As early as 200 B.C., Romans began to systematically improve their flocks. Roman sheep became the progenitors of Spanish merino sheep, which are now found worldwide. The name “merino” may stem from Berber Ben Mern, the name of the tribe that developed the breed, or from the Spanish “merino,” which means a local magistrate.
We call it mesh; others may use the French term piqué — a durable knit with raised warp yarns that give the material a distinctive, hearty, honeycomb texture. Our mesh knits are designed for coolness, breathability and long wear.
Mesh Lining
Mesh fabric, when used as a garment lining, performs double duty. Because it is an "open" knit (with "millions of tiny air holes," as we are known to say), the air pockets between the yarns act as insulators to help keep you warm. At the same time, air is free to move through the cells, allowing the fabric to "breathe" and wick moisture away from your body. As a result, the mesh lining helps keep you warm, dry and comfortable.
"Microfiber" is the generic term for any synthetic fiber that is finer than silk and weighs less than 1.0 denier. Microfibers are 2 times finer than silk, 3 times finer than cotton, 8 times finer than wool, and 100 times finer than a human hair. Currently, there are four types of microfibers being produced — acrylic, nylon, polyester, and rayon microfibers.  The fabrics made from these extra-fine fibers are soft, lightweight, breathable and durable. One of the important characteristics of microfiber fabrics is that they can be woven so tightly that the fabric can't be penetrated by wind, rain, or cold. For this reason, raincoat manufacturers have become big users of polyester microfibers. Microfibers also have a wicking ability, which allows perspiration to pass through the fabric.
Microsanding is a finishing process that gives fabrics a soft, comfortable feel. The surface is abraded by passing it against a series of rollers covered with a very fine grade of sandpaper. Microsanding adds to the relaxed, friendly character of the fabric.
Mitered Yoke
The yoke is the section of fabric in a dress shirt that spans the shoulders. In a mitered yoke, the fabric is sewn so the weave lies at an angle to the weave in the shirt’s front and back panels. This allows the yoke to stretch and contract with your movements, so you enjoy a more comfortable fit. The yoke in our Pinpoint Oxford is made of 4 pieces, which lets us adjust the shoulders precisely. It’s rare to find even a 2-piece yoke – and our Lands’ End yoke does twice as much to give you a fit that’s close to custom.
Mock Neck
Just as mock turtle soup pretends to be made from turtle (it's traditionally made from calf's head or veal) a mock turtleneck merely appears similar to its namesake. The difference is that the mock's shorter neck stands up instead of folding over — the profile is basically the same, but the extra bulk is gone.  Often, when the warmth of a turtleneck is just a bit too much, a mock will work perfectly. It's a versatile "goes-under" garment and stands on its own as a dressy alternative to a T-shirt or sweater.
A manufactured fiber often blended with cotton or spandex. It’s very soft, smooth, durable and is able to retain its shape even when wet. It’s resistant to shrinkage and fading.
Mongolian Cashmere
We trek to Inner Mongolia to get the richest, finest, most sought-after cashmere in the world. There, the climate is just right to encourage the fleece of Kashmir goats to grow long, strong and fine. Each spring, local herdsmen use a rake-like instrument tipped with hooks to comb the goats. The soft underhair comes out easily, building up on the long tines.  Although Kashmir goats are raised elsewhere, they are often shorn rather than combed, which results in shorter fibers. In addition, warmer climates discourage fleece growth. And the harsher winters of more northern climes cause the fleece to grow too thick and coarse. Climate-wise, Inner Mongolia is cashmere heaven.  After gathering bundles of the soft fleece, a special washing process removes remaining coarse guard hairs. From there, the fleece is tightly twisted and spun into heavier, more substantial two-ply yarns. These yarns are then knit into sweaters, turtlenecks, bathrobes and more to make what are truly the softest, most luxurious cashmere products on earth.
MPX® Coating
MPX is an invisible, non-toxic, breathable polyurethane coating applied to the exterior surface of some of our outerwear to greatly improve its ability to repel moisture. Typically, water will bead and roll off a fabric coated with MPX. However, the garment will not remain totally waterproof over prolonged exposure to significant moisture.
Mules, sometimes called "scuffs," are open-backed shoes or slippers without heel straps.  The term may come from the Middle Dutch muil and ultimately from the Latin mulleus, a reddish-purple ceremonial shoe.
A fuzzy, fur-like feel created when fiber ends extend from the basic fabric structure to the fabric surface. The fabric can be napped (brushed or abraded) on either one or both sides.
Necessary Knits
Necessary Knits is Lands' End's collection of classic knit basics for women — versatile, well-designed skirts, slacks and sweaters for the workplace and all sorts of occasions.  Timeless silhouettes and soft, durable cotton interlock make the items in this collection "must-haves" for a wardrobe that serves you well.
Needlepoint Stocking
A needlepoint stocking has a face decorated with a needlepoint illustration created by sewing on canvas with only one type of stitch. The embroidered result resembles tapestry.
Non-Fused Collar
This is a soft, natural collar in which the interfacing material, used as a stiffener, is not bonded (fused) to the fabric of the collar. Our non-fused collar rolls around your tie handsomely, whether it’s knotted tightly or in a double Windsor.
Notched Lapel
On a suitcoat, sport jacket or overcoat, the lapel is the fold of the material that falls below the collar. Today, we tend to think of the way the lapel is joined to the collar as merely a fashion feature, but historically, the common "notch" between lapel and collar allowed the wearer to fold the lapels forward and fasten them together for protection against cold or rain. Another, more flamboyant style of lapel is the "peaked" lapel, frequently seen on evening wear.
Nubuck Leather
"Nubuck" is an industry term used to describe an aniline-dyed full top grain leather that has been sanded or buffed in order to create a nap. It is typically a better-quality, longer-wearing leather than sueded or split leather, yet gives the brushed appearance of a fine suede.
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Offset Pocket
An offset pocket has an opening that does not parallel the side seam. It is usually found at the front hip location on pants, shorts, or skirts. Unlike the simpler construction of an onseam pocket, a fabric underlay must be provided for the space left open by this pocket’s design.
Onseam Pocket
The opening of an onseam pocket occurs at some structural seam of the garment – most often at the side seam of slacks or skirts.
An orthotic is a mechanical support or brace to aid or protect joints or muscles. In footwear, orthotic may refer to any shaping, padding or stiff insert designed to support and protect the foot or ankle.
The outsole is where your shoe's "rubber meets the road." Stitched and/or cemented to the midsole and upper, a well-designed outsole — leather or synthetic — provides traction, protection against harsh surfaces and long wear.
In the early 1600s, boots were king. Along about 1640, students at Oxford university began wearing a half-boot that laced. They came to be called Oxfords. These days, an Oxford is any low shoe laced or tied over the instep. Bluchers, Balmorals, saddle shoes, wingtips, desert boots and kilties are all variations on the basic Oxford style.
Oxford Cloth
Oxford cloth, named after the Scottish mill which originally produced it, is a soft, durable cotton or blended weave with a silky luster. The warp has two fine yarns paired together, and one heavier, softly-spun, bulky fill yarn (weft) which gives it a basketweave look. Oxford cloth is used predominately for dress shirts.
A parka is a coat or jacket with a hood, usually worn for protection from rain, snow, cold and/or wind. Because it is the hood which distinguishes this type of garment from other outerwear, it is important to pay attention to good hood design: a visor that holds its shape to keep dripping moisture off the face; sides that shelter the face without limiting vision; appropriate insulation; and easy-to-use adjustments to vary coverage depending on conditions.
Considered a luxury fabric used to make soft, fine shawls, stoles and sweaters, pashmina is a blend of cashmere and silk. The cashmere fibers are the underhair from the chests of Himalayan mountain goats, harvested by combing the animals each summer.  Extremely soft and fine, this goat hair is 6 times finer than a human hair — much too fine to be spun by machine. Handspinning enough yarn for one pashmina shawl takes about 2 weeks. Silk is blended with the cashmere for strength and added luster. A 30% silk blend usually provides the right balance for a durable fabric that is still exquisitely soft and warm.
Patch Pocket
A patch pocket is a flat, outside pocket stitched onto the surface of a garment.
Patch-and-Flap Pocket
A patch-and-flap pocket is an outside pocket stitched onto the surface of a garment with a top covering that must be lifted to access the opening.
Percale sheeting is made of fine, closely woven cotton, with a soft, silklike feel. Typically, percale made from combed cotton has a thread count of 200 per inch or more.
Peruvian Pima Cotton
Peruvian pima cotton is an extra-long staple (ELS) cotton variety grown mainly in Piura and the Chira River valley of Peru. (To earn the designation of "extra-long staple", fibers must measure at least 1-3/8" in l+B280ength.) With an average staple length of about 1-9/16", it's the longest-staple cotton in the world.  Peruvian pima is so fine it's almost like silk. In fact, to protect the fibers from damage, it's still largely picked by hand. And Peruvian pima is so soft, the locals say it's "suave como el pelo de un angel," or, "soft as the hair of an angel."  We make every one of our popular Pima Polos from Peruvian pima so you can enjoy one of the smoothest, most luxurious polos we've ever seen.
A piece-dyed garment has been given its color after its various panels and parts have been cut to size, but before they are sewn together. This helps ensure good saturation and uniformity of color. Depending on the type of dye and the fabric, each common method of dyeing — yarn-dyed, piece-dyed and garment-dyed — has its advantages.
"Pills" are small bobbles of fiber that appear on some fabrics due to general wear and tear. These little balls are broken fibers which have become tangled up with one another. Pilling tends to occur more readily in fabrics knit or woven from less-expensive short fibers, rather than from more costly long fibers.
Piltrol® Rib-Knit Cuffs
Piltrol is a revolutionary acrylic fiber engineered for easy care and extraordinarily low pilling, for long-lasting good looks. Piltrol is also characterized by superior shape retention and low shrinkage — making it perfect for jacket cuffs and hems.
Pima Lisle Fabric
"Lisle" is simply a French term for a smooth cotton thread. Pima is a cotton that produces fiber of exceptional strength and firmness and that was developed in the southwestern U. S. by the selection and breeding of Egyptian cottons. An excellent long-staple variety, a cross between Sea Island Cotton and Egyptian Cotton with fiber length averaging 1 1/2", it is predominately grown in the southwestern US and in Peru.  We've chosen to use only premium Peruvian pima cotton in our Pima Polo and other garments. It is the finest cotton with the longest staples available commercially anywhere in the world. Our Peruvian pima is handpicked only when it is perfectly ripe and knits into a wonderfully draping, silky-smooth fabric that the Peruvians themselves describe as, "soft as the hair of an angel®."
Pinpoint Oxford
Pinpoint Oxford cloth has become a standard for elegant shirts. A variation on the basic Oxford weave, it’s an even finer fabric, with a small 2x1 basket weave. The material is lightweight, soft and very smooth. Its extremely flat weft looks as though it’s made up of countless pinpoints — hence the name. Lands' End Pinpoints are the most popular dress shirts we offer.
A narrow piece of bias-cut fabric folded over and stitched into the seam between the fabric edge and facing to form decorative trim. For example, a navy blue blazer with the lining edged with white piping.
"Piqué" is the French term for the fabric we also call mesh — a durable knit with raised warp yarns that give the material a distinctive, hearty texture. Our mesh knits are designed for coolness, breathability and long wear.
A placket is the piece of fabric that reinforces a split or opening in a garment. It usually also serves as the closure — for example, the button placket for an Oxford shirt or the zipper placket on a pair of pants. Before the 20th century, a placket was fastened by lacings, buttons or hooks and eyes; since the 1930s by zippers; and frequently since the 1970s by Velcro®.
Plain Front
"Plain front" refers to a style of pants having no front pleats. Generally, plain-front pants will have a fit slightly closer to the body.
Plain Weave
A plain weave is a basic crisscross weave made by weaving one weft yarn over and under each warp yarn, alternating each row. Because any type of yarn made from any type of fiber can be woven in this manner, the plain weave is the most common type of weave.
Pleated Curtain Waistband
A pleated curtain waistband is a two-piece waistband with a box-pleated "curtain" of fabric, designed to increase flexibility and comfort.
Pleated Front
"Pleated front" refers to a style of pants having front pleats, which allow for more room and greater freedom of movement. Pleats may be single or double, outward-facing or inward-facing. Generally, pleated-front pants will have a slightly roomier fit.
Plisse is a fabric with a crinkled or puckered effect, usually running in the direction of the warp, which is created either by tension weaving or through the application of a caustic soda solution which shrinks part of the yarns on the back side of the cloth.
Pointelle is a very feminine, delicate-looking, rib-knit fabric made with a pattern of openings, which form the fabric’s design. Typically, the openings are in the form of chevrons.
Pointelle Knit
A decorative knit-stitch structure with periodic open spaces; resembles eyelet.
Polartec® 300
Made exclusively by Malden Mills, Polartec® 300 is the thickest and warmest of the Polartec fabric series and provides exceptional warmth without weight. Air pockets on both sides of the fibers trap body heat, creating thermal insulation. This superior fleece fabric breathes (allowing body moisture to pass through), is non-pilling, dries quickly, and has a comfortable, non-restrictive feel.
Polartec® Aircore® 200
Made exclusively by Malden Mills, Polartec® Aircore® 200 is the softest fleece on earth — and is 10% warmer and lighter in weight than the Polartec 200 that preceded it. It's highly breathable, water-repellent, pill-resistant and packs into a very small space. All of these qualities make it ideal for a variety of outerwear applications, which is where you will find it in our product lineup.
Polartec® Fleece
Polartec® is the registered trademark name for fleece fabrics made by Malden Mills and used by many manufacturers. These 100% polyester fabrics are lightweight with a velour construction that traps air to retain body warmth while allowing breathability.  The grades of this fleece are classified as Polartec 100, 200 and 300 Series, with 100 being the lightest and 300 being the heaviest. Polartec fabrics are durable and dry quickly. They maintain their insulating ability and non-pilling appearance after repeated launderings. 100 Series fabrics are used for a first layer or lightweight sweater. 300 Series fabrics provide a thermal layer for very cold outdoor activities. Halfway in weight between these fabrics, the 200 series fabrics combine warmth with versatility.
Polartec® Power Dry®
Polartec® Power Dry® fabric is designed to keep skin dry during strenuous activity. The patented bi-component knit construction includes two surfaces that work together efficiently. The soft inner layer wicks perspiration away from the body while the outer layer spreads moisture for maximum evaporation. Power Dry fabrics are ideal for sports that create significant body moisture due to high exertion and aerobic activity.
Polartec® Windbloc® Series
Polartec® Windbloc® Series fabrics block 100% of the wind, offering maximum protection from cold and the elements. They combine the warmth of Polartec® thermal fabrics with a polyurethane barrier membrane that allows moisture vapor transmission. Windbloc fabrics are completely windproof and waterproof, eliminating the need for a windbreaker or extra shell. Their enhanced stretch and recovery makes these fabrics perfect for outerwear where severe weather demands high-performance outer protection.
Polartec® Windpro® Series:
Polartec Wind Pro fabrics are 4 times more wind resistant than conventional fleece. Specialized yarns and very tight construction greatly reduce the effects of wind chill. The combination of wind resistance, warmth, and breathability provides outstanding comfort in a wide range of activities. The surface repels rain and snow. A velour or pebbled back traps air and provides a high warmth-to-weight ratio. Both surfaces of these fabrics are finished for extreme durability and pill resistance. They retain their insulating ability and original appearance after repeated use and laundering.
Polo Shirt
The term "polo shirt" refers to a pullover sport shirt of knitted fabric designed for comfort and casual wear. A polo shirt can have long or short sleeves, a turnover collar or a banded neck. The style was copied from the white, short-sleeved crewneck shirts worn by polo players and has been popular for sportswear since the 1930s. It is also called a "chukka shirt." We offer an array of polos — all cool 100% cotton — ranging from our basic Mesh Knit Polo to our Interlock Polo, knit of soft Peruvian pima cotton.
Invented in the early 1930s, polyester is a man-made fiber resistant to shrinkage, wrinkling and moths. Polyester is strong and resilient, with the result that polyester fabrics hold their shape and resist creasing and wrinkling. Low absorbency allows the fiber to dry quickly. This remarkable fiber was introduced to Americans in 1951. A press conference revealed that a man's polyester suit was still presentable after being worn for 67 days without pressing, dunked in a swimming pool twice, then washed in a machine. Men's suit makers were among the first to exploit polyester's qualities. Blends of polyester give cotton a permanent-press property and longer wear. Polyester fabric, made in many weights, is second only to cotton fabric in worldwide use.
A durable, plain-weave fabric, poplin is similar to broadcloth, but has a heavier rib and heavier weight. It can be made of silk, cotton, synthetic fibers, wool or blends. Poplin is used for sportswear of all kinds — shirts, boys' suits, uniforms, draperies, blouses and dresses.  Cotton poplin is mercerized and has a high luster. It may be bleached, dyed or printed. We use 100% cotton poplin in shirts, pants and shorts to give them light weight, cool comfort and long-wearing durability.
Portuguese Flannel
Portuguese mills enjoy a worldwide reputation as premier producers of the popular napped cotton fabric used for bathrobes, flannel shirts, etc. The flannel industry is centered around Guimaraes, in the hills of Northern Portugal. It is claimed that the cool mountain air enhances the brushing process, adding softness to the finished product. While the family-owned mills have been in operation for generations, it was during the 1950s that Portugal's flannel industry came into its own, acquiring the international reputation for quality it enjoys today. In our Lands' End testing lab, we've found that Portuguese Flannel is outstanding not only for its softness, but for its ability to hold up under repeated washings without pilling or growing thin.
A laundering process which adds softness to garments and helps control shrinkage. Many Lands’ End garments are pre-washed to give them a relaxed, friendly character and to help them keep their comfortable fit.
The term pullover refers to a knit top that is pulled on over the head, such as a sweater or sweatshirt.
An acronym for polyvinyl chloride, PVC is a vinyl polymer, similar to polyethylene. Because of its water resistance, PVC is used to make raincoats. Our Lands' End rain slickers use a PVC coating over a nylon shell. This provides excellent water resistance along with the benefits of light weight and a supple character that allows freedom of movement.
PVC-Coated Nylon
PVC-coated nylon is a great raingear fabric. The nylon is tough and elastic; and the polyvinyl chloride coating on the exterior is impervious to water.
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Raglan Sleeve
In a raglan sleeve, one piece of fabric extends all the way to the neckline, with slanted seams from the armhole to the neck (no shoulder seam). Darts, seams or gathers are used to provide the fullness necessary for the sleeve to curve over the shoulder yet taper to fit the much smaller neckline. Traditional two-color baseball shirts exhibit a perfect example of raglan sleeves.
Today's most heavily manufactured synthetic fiber, rayon is composed of regenerated cellulose, derived from wood pulp, cotton linters or other vegetable matter. Spun rayon can be treated to simulate wool, linen or cotton.  Rayon fabrics are characterized by high absorbency, luster and a silky feel. Their light, breezy character and ability to be dyed into bright colors makes them ideal for our women's blouses and men's Hawaiian shirts.
Relaxed Fit Men’s Pants
Roomier than our traditional fit‚ they sit at the waist‚ run slightly loose through the thigh and taper at the leg opening.
Reversible Fabrics
Fabrics that can be used on either side are known as reversible or double-faced fabrics. Generally, the design or texture is not the same on the face and back.
Rib Knit
A rib knit is one in which lengthwise ribs are formed by wales alternating on both sides. If every other wale alternates between the right and "wrong" side, it is called a 1x1 rib or plain rib. If 2 wales alternate, it is called a 2x2 (two-and-two) or Swiss rib. Rib knits have remarkable elasticity. They are also heavier and more durable than plain knits. Rib-knit fabric is used for complete garments, such as sweaters, and for cuffs, necks and waistbands.
Ringspinning is a method of spinning yarns which continuously twists and thins a rope of cotton fibers for cohesion and strength. The twisting makes the short hairs of cotton stand out, so the finished yarn is not only stronger, but softer as well. Ringspun yarns are made at a slower, more deliberate pace than open-end yarns, but they're smoother and make smoother fabric. Strength, softness and smoothness make ringspun cotton fabrics our choice for denim jeans and twill pants.
Ringspun Cotton Denim
Ringspun cotton denim is made with a cotton yarn that's spun using the "ringspun" method, whereby drawn-out cotton fibers (called "roving") are spun into yarn by passing through a rotating ring which twists the yarn as it is wound onto the take-up bobbin. Superior to "open-end spinning," a method wherein the roving is spun by being forced through an air jet. Ring-spun yarn is about 15% stronger than open-end yarns.
Roll Brim Hat
A "roll brim" is a style of women's hat with a close-fitting crown and narrow curved brim which may be worn up or down. Lands' End makes a popular cold-weather version in genuine Polartec®.
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Saddle Shoulder
A variation of the raglan sleeve, the saddle shoulder has a yoke running across the top of the shoulder, cut in one piece with the sleeve. Our Drifter Crew Sweater is knit with a saddle shoulder.
Saddle Stitch
The saddle stitch is a simple overcasting stitch, usually of a thread contrasting in color with the fabric. It is used primarily as ornamentation on clothing and has a broken-line appearance similar to the broken line dividing the lanes of a highway.
Sailcloth is a strong canvas fabric able to withstand the elements. It is woven of cotton, linen or rayon and can also be produced in blends. It's usually a plain-weave fabric, but some are made with a crosswise rib pattern. In lighter weights, sailcloth is fashioned into clothing. Staunch resistance to abrasion and tearing makes it an excellent fabric for longwearing sportswear.
Sateen Weave
A variation of the satin weave, the sateen weave is produced by floating fill (weft) yarns over warp yarns to produce a semi-lustrous surface. Most often, cotton is used, and mercerized cotton produces a higher sheen. This elegant weave gives our sateen bedding a soft luster and silky drape.
Satin is a smooth, strong, lustrous satin-weave fabric made with silk or manufactured filament yarns. In satin cloth the warp threads float over as many as eight weft threads, then are tied down with one weft thread. Fine threads yield a smooth, lustrous surface. Satin was a favorite of court life because of its exquisite feel and elegant appearance.  In more recent times, satin became a fabric used for evening and wedding garments. Today, satin is made in many colors, weights and varieties. Typical examples of satin-weave fabrics include: slipper satin, crepe-back satin, faille satin, bridal satin, moleskin and antique satin.
Satin Stitch
A dense, zigzag stitch when done on the sewing machine, the satin stitch can be made when sewing by hand as well. If good-quality thread is used, the stitch creates a shiny, satiny appearance.
Seamless Neck
One important feature that sets our Turtlenecks apart from others is their smooth, seamless neck. It takes special machinery to knit a "continuous loop" of fabric, in sizes to fit everyone, but the payoff is worth the extra work — no unsightly, lumpy, irritating seam against your neck.
Seamless-Toe Stockings
Stockings knit on a circular hosiery-knitting machine are seamless-toe stockings. No seam is needed to form the tubular shape, in contrast with stockings knitted on the flat knitting machine, which require seaming. Seamless toes in stockings eliminate the problem of seams rubbing against toes, which can cause chafing and irritation.
The word "seersucker" is derived from the Persian "shirushaker," a kind of cloth, literally translated as "milk and sugar." A warm-weather favorite, seersucker is a cotton fabric with permanently woven crinkled stripes. These crinkles are created by alternating slack and tight yarns in the warp, producing a puckered effect in the fabric.  Seersucker is fashioned into summer sportswear such as shirts, trousers and informal suits. The cloth is durable, launders well and generally does not need ironing. We use only authentic seersucker — in which the crinkles are woven in. This fabric will keep its crisp character after repeated washings or cleanings. Lesser grades of seersucker are produced by pressing or chemicals. Their crinkled texture is not likely to last.
Self-Fabric Waistband
Found in many casual pants, a self-fabric waistband is constructed of the same fabric used to make the rest of the garment.
Self-Repairing Coil Zipper
The generic name for a zipper is "slide fastener," and was invented in the early 1890s to be used on boots and money belts. The name "zipper" was coined by B.F. Goodrich in 1923.  In some uses, the traditional toothed zipper has been replaced by the self-repairing coil zipper, made from a continuous piece of plastic that's been formed into a coil shape and sewn onto a piece of fabric webbing. One advantage of the coil zipper is that if fabric gets caught in the zipper teeth, the fabric can be gently pulled out without tearing. Also, if a coil zipper is stressed to the extent that it separates, it is not ruined; simply running the zipper slide up and down will make it operational again.  Because of its strength, ease of use and self-repairing features, the coil zipper is used on all Lands' End luggage.
Selvage, or selvedge, is the thin, compressed edge of a woven fabric which runs parallel to the warp yarns and prevents raveling. It is usually woven, using tougher yarns and a tighter construction than the rest of the fabric.
Set-In Sleeve
A sleeve that is joined to the body of the garment with a seam at or near the armhole is known as a "set-in" sleeve. This is a very popular type of sleeve found on many shirts, casual jackets and coats.  A basic set-in sleeve is sewn to the garment flat. The shoulder seam of the garment is sewn first, then the sleeve is sewn to the front and back of the garment, and finally the side seam is sewn continuously from the wrist to the bottom of the hem of the entire garment.
Shaker Stitch
The Shaker stitch is a coarse, plain-knit stitch used for knitting heavy sweaters.
Sharkskin is a smooth wool fabric in a twill weave that has a characteristic alternating black-and-white step-like pattern for a grayed effect. The surface is said to resemble a skin of a shark.
The term "shearling" refers to lambskins which have been processed with the hair intact, therefore classifying them as "fur" rather than "leather." Shearling is used for jackets, collars and coats and is usually sueded on the leather side.
Shetland Wool
Only wool shorn from Shetland sheep and finished with a washing process in Scottish waters can properly be called Shetland wool. This final washing given to finished sweaters removes the oils and lubricants inherent to the wool fibers. The mineral-rich waters of Scotland help give the sweaters a lofty character.  Shetland wool is very lightweight, soft and warm, with a definite shaggy feel. The best grade of Shetland wool comes from the sheep's fine undergrowth. Natural colors range from off-white to various grays to almost black and brown. We use only genuine Shetland wool in our hardy Shetland sweaters.
Shirt Jacket
Combining the length of a jacket with the styling and weight of a shirt, the shirt jacket (also called a shirt-jac) is a versatile wardrobe item for men and women. Styles and detailing vary greatly — pockets can be placed on the chest, sides or front. Collars usually follow shirt styling but may be cut in sportcoat fashion. Tailoring touches can include buttons on the cuffs or vents on the sides. The shirt jacket is made in a broad array of fabrics — silk, suede, wool, linen, corduroy and others.
Shirt-Tail Hem
The shirt-tail hem of a woman's blouse or skirt is cut after the fashion of a man's dress shirt.
A natural filament fiber produced by the silkworm in making its cocoon, silk is noted for its strength, resiliency and elasticity. Today, most silk is collected from cultivated worms. Silk fabrics include plain weaves (taffeta, pongee), cords (faille, poplin), gauzes (net malines), pile fabrics (plush, velvet), crepes, satins, damask, ribbons and brocade. Some of these weaves are ancient, developed on the shuttle looms of China and the handlooms of India, Greece and Europe. Primary sources of silk today are China and Japan. We use silk in many of our women's tops for elegant looks and a comfortable, natural fit. Silk's light weight, breathability and excellent insulating properties make it perfect for men's and women's long underwear. The interlock knit in our silk underwear is denser and warmer than ordinary jersey knits.
Single-Needle Tailoring
Seams that lie flat, look neat and feel wonderfully smooth are the result of single-needle tailoring. This method completes a seam with a single row of stitching. Full single-needle stitched seams make our Pinpoint Oxford a world-class shirt.  This Old World tailoring method is more costly than newer ways of sewing, but we think it makes a noticeable difference — and gives you better value.
Skid-Free Sole
A skid-free sole is made of neoprene rubber or synthetic material that provides improved traction and better safety. A raised pattern enables the sole to grip wet or smooth surfaces.
Sleep Separates
Sleep separates are pajama garments for men and women — tops and bottoms in different fabrics and patterns that allow mix-and-match variety.
A slipcover is a removable covering for a piece of furniture, such as a chair or sofa. We offer machine-washable slipcovers in a range of sofa sizes, plus a chair slipcover. The robust cotton duck fabric stands up well to hard wear. Our tailored slipcovers are accented with piping; our relaxed-fit slipcovers have a more casual look.
A soft, cotton fabric woven from threads that are loosely spun together creating an irregular, vintage appearance with subtle texture.
The term sockliner is used to describe the insole of an athletic shoe. The sockliner is the part of the shoe that comes into direct contact with bottom of your foot. Constructed of foam and rigid materials, it's designed to add cushioning and shock absorption to a shoe for enhanced comfort and performance.
Spa Robe
More substantial than a regular terry robe, a spa robe is made of thicker terry cloth. It often includes features such as a shawl collar and terry cloth liner for extra comfort and absorbency.
Characterized by its expandability and durability, spandex is an elastomeric fiber that can be stretched up to five times its original length. It is lightweight, flexible and resists deterioration from perspiration, detergent and body oils.  Spandex is blended with other fibers to create fabrics that can stretch and recover. It gives our women's swimwear great shape-keeping ability. And it's woven into our elastic-waist shorts and pants. Spandex adds the give-and-take to our women's stretchable knit pants. And in our Mock Turtleneck, a touch of Lycra® spandex in the neck ensures that it will keep its shape.
Sport Socks
Sport socks are designed for active sports, with features that include spandex panels and ribbed construction through the ankle, arch and calf. Cushioned soles reduce shock and resist abrasion. Toe and heel areas are reinforced.  Many sport socks feature a stretch terry knit with looped terry throughout the sock or in selected locations. Terry is often placed on the outside, and a smooth knit next to the foot to reduce rubbing that can cause blisters.
Square Rigger®
Square Rigger® is a registered trademark of Lands' End for traditionally designed canvas luggage trimmed with leather. The name harkens back to the days of tall sailing ships, trimmed out with canvas sails — and recalls Lands' End's nautical origins, when the company sold sailing hardware.
Stab Stitch
The stab stitch is a hand stitch in which the needle goes straight through at right angles to the fabric. It is used to finish edges and to make custom shoulder pads.
The term staple is used in the textile industry to distinguish natural or cut-length manufactured fibers from filament (which can be extremely long). With a natural fiber like cotton, "staple" is used to indicate the lengths of fibers that require spinning and twisting in the manufacture of yarn. The longer the staple, the stronger and smoother the yarn. That's why we use long-staple varieties like Pima cotton. It twists into smoother, stronger yarns, which knit into a finer fabric for our Peruvian Pima Polo. And the fabric not only looks better, it wears longer, keeping its silky appearance wash after wash.
Stonewashing is a wet process that originally used real stones and now uses rubber/silicon balls. It softens and preshrinks a fabric, while giving it a comfortable, broken-in look and feel. Our stonewashed jeans and chambray shirts have a slightly weathered appearance and a friendly character that's easy to like.
Straight Fit Men’s Pants
A contemporary fit that sits below the waist and runs straight from hip to hem.
Suede Fabric
Suede fabric is woven or knitted cloth finished to resemble suede leather, usually through napping, shearing and sanding techniques. Suede can be made of wool, cotton, rayon, synthetics or blends. It has a soft, supple, slightly nappy feel that suggests good quality. Suede fabric is used for gloves, sport coats, linings and even cleaning cloths.
Super 100s Wool
Super 100s wool is a fine, lightweight wool obtained exclusively from Merino sheep, with a fiber diameter of 18 microns. The fabric made from super 100s is lightweight for year-round wear and has a superior drape. We use Super 100s in all our basic Year'rounders suit separates.
Super 110s Wool
Super 110s wool is a fine, lightweight wool obtained exclusively from Merino sheep, with a fiber diameter of 17.5 microns. The fabric made from super 110s is lightweight for year-round wear and has a superior drape. We use Super 110s in all our "cut-above" Year'rounders suit separates.
Super 120s Wool
Super 120s wool is a fine, lightweight wool obtained exclusively from Merino sheep, with a fiber diameter of 17 microns. The fabric made from super 120s is lightweight for year-round wear and has a superior drape. We use Super 120s in our best men's suits.
Supima® Cotton
Supima® is a licensed trademark owned by the Supima Association of America used to identify textiles made of 100% Extra-Long Staple American Pima Cotton. (To earn the designation of "extra-long staple", fibers must measure at least 1-3/8" in length.)  US pima cotton fiber is among the longest staple lengths in the world, with an average length of about 1-7/16". The exceptional strength of Supima cotton allows yarns to be spun very finely, which imparts a more luxurious appearance and softness of hand to everything from T-shirts to towels.
Supplex® Nylon
Engineered by DuPont, Supplex is a synthetic fabric that combines the soft, supple touch of cotton with the strength, durability, and performance of nylon.  Supplex dries quickly — and built-in ultraviolet protection helps it resist fading. It also holds up well through frequent use and repeated laundering. We use Supplex in a wide range of activewear, swimwear, jackets, pants, shorts and outerwear.
Sweat Pants
These days, sweat pants may as well be call "no-sweat pants," because their loose, comfy styling invites lounging and taking life easy. Originally, however, sweat pants and shirts were strictly athletic wear, built loose for ease of movement and thick enough to absorb lots of perspiration. Questions to ask when shopping for sweat pants: Are they plush and durable? Comfortable against the skin? Is the waist adjustable? Will they stay their size after washing? If you're inquiring about the sweat pants we offer, the answers are yes, yes, yes and yes.
1) The measurement of a garment (especially a dress or top) around the hem.
2) The appearance created by the above. For example: The flared silhouette creates a pretty sweep.
Tactel® Nylon
Tactel is a type of nylon with a light, soft character. It feels like cotton, but performs like nylon. Garments fashioned of Tactel retain their shape well and resist pilling. It's an easy-care fabric that dries quickly.
Taffeta is a lustrous, medium-weight, plain-weave fabric with a slight ribbed appearance in the filling (crosswise) direction. It's a favorite for dressy evening wear — used in women's suits and coats, slips, ribbons and blouses. Taffeta has a crisp feel and substantial body. It can be rayon or another synthetic, but silk taffeta is considered to be the highest in quality. Taffeta is thought to have originated in Iran (Persia) and was called "taftah" (a fine silk fabric). In the 16th century, it was considered a luxury fabric for women's wear. Today, taffeta is made both in plain colors and fancy prints.
Tailored Fit Men’s Pants
A trimmer‚ closer-to-the-body option for a cleaner look.
Tailored Fit Men’s Shirt
Compared to Traditional Fit‚ 1 1/2” smaller in the chest and 2 3/4” smaller in the waist‚ with proportioned details.
Taped Seam
A taped seam is one with twill or ribbon tape, bias binding, net or a fabric strip included in the line of stitching to add strength, firmness and stability. A taped seam helps keep bias and other seams from stretching or losing their shape. Taped seams are used on shoulders and waistlines of knitted garments and armholes of suits, coats and tailored garments. They are also found on necklines, lapels and collars of jackets or coats.
Tartan Plaid
Authentic Tartan plaid was originally a twilled woolen or worsted plaid worn by Scottish highlanders as shawls or kilts. The word is derived from the Gallic "tarstin" or" tarsuin" meaning "across," which describes the cross-stripe pattern.  From its beginnings in Scotland's 16th century glens, the romance of Tartan has spread down through the centuries. In the early 19th century, samples of Tartan plaids, authenticated with the clan seal, were collected from the clans in an effort to preserve the original patterns.  When George IV visited Edinburgh in 1822, Sir Walter Scott urged the Scots to turn out "plaided and plumed" in their true Tartans to meet their King. Later in the 19th century, the first book was published with plates showing the authentic Tartan plaids.  Today there is a limited number of registered Tartans carrying the name of the originating clan.
Teflon® is a trademark of DuPont for a fluorocarbon fiber with unusually high resistance to chemicals and heat. Is it used as a protective finish for a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, silk, wool velvet, linen and blends — even leather.  Teflon® stain protection guards against spills and soiling. It repels liquids and allows easy release of both oil- and water-based stains during laundering. It's used as a protective coating on a broad array of clothing for men, women and children, including everyday apparel, outerwear and sportswear.  Teflon is also made into Gore-Tex®, a microporous fabric used in performance wear and in surgical applications.
Tencel® is one of the newest man-made fibers. Made from wood pulp, it's produced with a recyclable, non-toxic dissolving agent. Tencel combines the softness of silk and the feel of rayon, but has the strength of cotton.  In knit or woven fabrics, Tencel is breathable and has a fluid character that drapes nicely and resists wrinkles. It is often combined with other fibers and used in casual wear, jeans and a variety of knitwear.
Terry Cloth
Terry cloth is a fluffy fabric with uncut loops on one or both sides. The name's been around since 1784, referring to a looped or pile fabric, which can be woven or knit. Perhaps the best guess is that "terry" came from the French word tiré, "to draw" — as in drawn velvet, which is stretched to strengthen its fibers.  The fabric is formed by using an extra warp yarn. Better-quality terry has a close, firm underweave with dense loops. Terry cloth is long-wearing and very absorbent. In fact, the longer the loops, the "thirstier" the fabric. Used extensively for toweling and robes, terry is easy to launder and requires no ironing.
Thermaskins are undergarments (tops and pants) that form a base layer of outdoor clothing for men and women. Their knit fabric arranges polyester fibers into a two-sided moisture-management system. The brushed side next to the skin wicks or "pulls" moisture away. The outer fabric "pushes" moisture across a wider surface area, so it can evaporate quickly.
Thermolite® Base
Made by DuPont, Thermolite® Base is an insulating material which provides warmth and comfort with little weight, even when wet. Imitating the hollow hairs of polar bears with their remarkable insulating properties, DuPont scientists developed hollow-core fibers that trap air for greater insulation. Thermolite dries 20% faster than other insulating fabrics and 50% faster than cotton.
Thinsulate™ Insulation
A product of 3M, Thinsulate™ is a blend of 35 percent polyester/65 percent olefin insulation spun into a low-loft material.  Made up of microfibers with a diameter of less than 10 microns, Thinsulate is a very efficient insulator. In fact, when equal thicknesses are compared, Thinsulate provides one-and-a-half times the warmth of down. It also retains its insulating ability in damp conditions. Thinsulate is used in general outerwear, ski- and boardwear, footwear and gloves.
A tightly woven, very durable fabric, ticking is usually made of cotton, and is used for covering mattresses, box springs and pillows. It is also used for work clothes. The fabric can have a plain, satin or twill weave construction.
Tie Keeper
A keeper is the strip of fabric tacked at both ends on the back side of a tie, often carrying the tie's brand name, and forming a loop which serves to capture the narrow end of the tie and hold both ends together for neatness.
Topstitching is a decorative stitch, larger than those used in the construction process, worked in a matching or contrasting color. It is used for emphasis at yokes, seams and edges.
Traditional Fit Men’s Pants
Our classic style‚ with plenty of room throughout.
Traditional Fit Men’s Shirt
The classic American cut‚ roomier throughout but never sloppy.
Tricot is a warp-knit fabric with a horizontal rib often used in women's lingerie because of its thin texture. It can be made from nylon, rayon, silk, cotton or other fibers. It has a thin texture, made from very fine or single yarns. Glove silk is a double bar tricot (very run-resistant).  Also, tricot is a twilled clothing fabric of wool with fine warp ribs — or of wool and cotton with fine weft ribs. Tricot fabrics are used to make underwear, sportswear, bathing suits and gloves.
A T-shirt is a collarless, short-sleeved or sleeveless undershirt usually made of cotton. It can also be an outer shirt of similar design.
A tunic is a simple slip-on garment made with or without sleeves and is usually knee-length or longer. Belted at the waist, it was worn as an under or outer garment by men and women of ancient Greece and Rome. The tunic has been adopted by modern women's fashion and is worn belted, unbelted or over a skirt.
Turkish Terry
Turkish Terry is terry cloth with loops on one or both sides or patterned loops on both sides. It can also incorporate jacquard and dobby effects, combined with pile. The fabric may be bleached, dyed or printed. When the pile is only on one side, it is called "Turkish toweling." Turkish terry is used for towels, bathrobes, beachwear, children's wear, slipcovers and draperies.
Turn-Back Cuffs
Turn-back or turned-back cuffs are shirt cuffs formed by cutting the fabric for the sleeves several inches beyond the wrist line and then turning back and hemming the extra length.
A turtleneck is a high, close-fitting turnover collar used especially on sweaters. First worn by athletes in Great Britain during the 1860s, the turtleneck immigrated to the US some 30 years later and grew rapidly in popularity.  Lands' End Turtlenecks are knit with a smooth, seamless neck and your choice of 100% cotton or cotton/polyester blends.
Tussah is a variety of silk made from wild or uncultivated silkworms. It is coarse and strong, with a dull luster and rough texture. When woven, bumps or "slubs" give it a ruggedly handsome character. Ecru or tan in color, Tussah silk is difficult to bleach. It usually doesn't dye evenly. Tussah wears well and becomes rougher looking with wear. In lighter weights, it's used for dresses; in heavier weights, for coats, suits and ensembles.
Tweed is a hardy fabric made usually in wool twill weaves, used widely for suits and coats. It is the Scottish name for twill, and originated along the banks of the Tweed River, which separates England from Scotland. Sometimes known as "tweel," it is the sistercloth of homespun cheviot and Shetland. They are the same in texture, yarn, weight, feel and use. Tweed may also be plaid, checked, striped or other patterns. In addition to men's clothing, tweed is now made into sportswear for women and children. Lighter-weight fabric is used for dresses. Today's tweeds may be of wool, nylon or a combination of natural and man-made fibers.
Twill Weave
Twill is a basic weave in which the fill (weft) threads pass over one and under two or more warp threads to give an appearance of diagonal lines. A twill weave usually results in a softer fabric than a plain weave. It is excellent for brushed or napped cotton, and makes good feather pillow ticking because of its strength. Twill is a common, even predominant weave in many clothing items, especially sport shirts and jeans. Although a soft fabric, it has a "hard" surface and is tough and long-wearing.
The term twinset refers to a combination of two women's sweaters of matching color, weave and fabric, worn together, such as a cardigan over a jewelneck.
Two-Ply Cashmere
Most cashmere is made of fleece spun into single (one-ply) yarns. We use only the finest fleece from Inner Mongolia spun into heavier, more substantial two-ply yarns for greater resiliency, durability and softness.
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Underwire Bra
An underwire bra is a brassiere with a fabric-covered wire or cord insert underneath the bra cups to add extra lift or support. This technique is commonly used in sports bras and strapless bras.
Velcro® is a trademarked term used for a fastening system consisting of a tape with nylon hooks that clings to another tape with loops. Velcro was originally designed for astronauts' suits, but has gained wide usage in everyday sportswear, especially when ease of use is key to the design.
Velvet is a luxurious fabric commonly made with a filament fiber and cut-pile construction. The cut pile stands up very straight for high luster and smooth feel. The term comes from the Latin "vellus," meaning a fleece or tufted hair.  Velvet is woven using two sets of warp yarns; the extra set creates the pile. Most velvets are made with a plain back, but some are backed with twill. Velvet is used in all types of after-5 wear, at-home wear, draperies and upholstering. Good velvet wears fairly well and is relatively inexpensive. Better grades may have a superior drape, along with crush- and-water-resistance.
On clothing, a vent is a tailored slit that allows breathability and freedom of movement. Vents are found on many formal and informal shirts, jackets and shorts. Sportcoats and blazers may use a single center vent or two side vents. Occasionally, vents are tacked down and serve a fashion function only.
Vinyl is an extruded polyvinyl chloride synthetic fabric flowed onto a woven, knitted, or non-woven base cloth. It is sometimes used to imitate leather and is often used in raingear.
Virgin Fiber
According to the Federal Trade Commission, virgin fiber is wool that has not been processed in any way, shape or form. Hair and other specialty fibers are classed as wool as measured by the Federal Trade Commission. This term is a misnomer when used in advertising or on labels.
Virgin Wool
Virgin wool is wool that has never previously been processed into fabric.
Viyella® Fabric
Viyella® fabric is a trade name for a lightweight British twill fabric that blends wool and cotton. Fibers in the yarn are blended before spinning.  Viyella has the appearance of very fine flannel. It is soft, fine and warm, and holds a pleat well. It is an excellent fabric for children's and babies' wear, sportswear, men's and women's tailored shirts and dresses. Viyella offers the added advantage of being machine-washable.
Commonly used in women's blouses, voile is a lightweight, sheer, plain-weave fabric, usually made from cotton that has a slightly crisp feel.
Vulcanized Rubber
The term "vulcanized rubber" refers to rubber that has been cured with heat and pressure over time in an autoclave. This process fuses the rubber components together and also fuses rubber to other materials, such as the fabric of a canvas shoe.
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A waistband is a strip of fabric, usually enforced with interfacing, that is seamed to the waistline to secure the garment during wear.
In a woven fabric such as corduroy, a wale is one of a series of ribs, cords or raised portions. In corduroy, 6 wales per inch would be considered a "wide-wale" fabric; 12 would be called "finewale."  A special "W"-weave in our cords clamps the pile yarns in place, making for more substantial, longer wearing cords. Embedded in this "W"-weave is a traditional "V"-weave, which produces plush pile yarns. So you enjoy durability along with lavish pile.  Widewale cords are plush and warm, making them great casual pants on cooler days. Finewales are lighter and dressier with a drapey character. They match up well with blazers, sweaters and T-necks.
The threads that run down the length of a woven fabric are known as the warp.
Warp Yarns
On a traditional loom, the warp yarns are strung vertically (as the operator faces the machine) on rollers and the fill, or weft, yarns are woven horizontally between the warp yarns. In the finished piece, the warp yarns run the entire length of the fabric, while the weft yarns go from one side to the other.
"Waterproof" means impervious to water. In clothing it means covered or treated with a material (as a solution of rubber) to prevent permeation by water.
The term "water-repellent" refers to fabrics treated with a finish that is resistant but not impervious to penetration by water. Water-repellent garments can lose their ability to repel water after repeated dry cleanings, as this process sometimes wears away the treatment on the fabric.
"Water-resistant" means water-repellent. The term refers to fabrics treated with a finish that is resistant but not impervious to penetration by water. Water-resistant garments can lose their ability to repel water after repeated dry cleanings, as this process sometimes wears away the treatment on the fabric.
The threads that run across a woven fabric (as opposed to up and down) are known as the weft.
Weft Yarns
Welt Pocket
A welt pocket on a jacket or pants has a narrow welted edge below the pocket opening. A welt pocket is set inside the garment, as opposed to a patch pocket, which is set on the surface of the garment.
The term "welting" refers to a tape or covered cord sewn into a seam as reinforcement. Also, welting is a method of covering the raw edges of a pocket or other opening.
Wheeled Pullman
This modern luggage item has a heritage dating back to the heyday of passenger railroads. The wheeled Pullman is a large piece of rolling luggage — a modern counterpart of the Pullman case, an oversized suitcase named after the Pullman car (sleeping car) of a passenger train. The modern wheeled Pullman is designed with a roomy main compartment and a handle that extends to allow easy movement.
Whipcord is a rugged, twill-weave fabric much like gabardine, but the yarn is bulkier and much more pronounced. The twill is steep and runs from left to right (except when woven of cotton). Whipcord is very durable and stands up well to hard use. It picks up a shine with repeated wear.
"Wicking" refers to the ability of fabric to conduct moisture. Well-designed active undergarments will have the ability to conduct body moisture away from the skin, through the garment, and into the atmosphere. This constant removal of trapped moisture helps keep your body dry, and dry bodies stay warmer.
Wide-Wale Corduroy
Corduroy is a cotton pile fabric known for its strength and durability. Extra sets of filling yarns are woven into the fabric to form vertical ridges on the surface. These ridges, called wales, are usually made in one of three widths. The narrowest width is called "fine wale" (sometimes "pinwale"), the medium width is usually called "regular," and the widest is simply called "wide wale." Choosing a wale width is more a matter of personal preference than of function.
The garment we refer to as a windbreaker is a lightweight jacket or pullover made of a wind-resistant fabric like nylon. It usually has a hood and a close-fitting waistband and cuffs.
A garment is considered windproof to the extent that wind cannot pass through it. This can be achieved by tightly weaving natural fibers, by coating or treating fabric with a nonporous material, or by technically innovative man-made fiber constructions that block rapidly moving air yet still allow "breathability," to reduce moisture buildup inside the garment.
Worsted Wool
Worsted wool is long-staple (long fibers) wool which has been combed several times for extra strength and smoothness, then tightly twisted to make a smooth, tight, hard-finished yarn. the result is a finer, smoother, stronger and more consistent yarn.  The term "worsted" can be traced back to the days of William the Conqueror. When he arrived in Britain, the legend goes, he saw peasants combing wool fibers before weaving them into yarn, and became interested in the process. Having recently conquered — or "worsted" — these people in battle, he named the region Worsted. In time, the yarn was given this name as well.
W-weave is one of several weaving patterns used in producing corduroy material. In the simplest weave, a V-weave, the weft yarns, which constitute the distinctive corduroy nap, are anchored by a single warp thread, and in cross-section, form a "V" shape. A W-weave pattern uses three warp yarns to more securely anchor the nap yarns, resulting in sturdier, longer-wearing fabric. Naturally, we specify W-weave for most of our corduroy fabrics.
A row of X's stitched on a garment, X-stitching is usually decorative, but can also be used to strengthen or visually emphasize seams.
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A yarn-dyed fabric or garment is one woven or knit from yarns that have already been dyed, instead of dyeing the fabric or the completed garment. Yarn-dyeing enables more thorough penetration of the dye into the material, resulting in richer, more consistent and longer-lasting color.
Yarn Gauge
In knitting, yarn gauge refers to the number of stitches (or stitched loops) of yarn there are in a certain length of fabric — usually either an inch or 1-1/2 inches, depending on the standard used. Gauge is determined primarily by the thickness of the yarn — the thicker the yarn, the fewer stitches per inch, the lower the gauge number — but can also be affected by the size of the knitting needles and the tightness of the knit. Generally, a low gauge number or a description such as "heavy gauge" indicates a loose, bulky knit. A high gauge number or a description such as "fine gauge" indicates a lighter-weight, tighter knit.
Yarn Plys
A yarn is produced by spinning (twisting) fibers together in a continuous strand, or rope. A single strand is a single ply. Frequently, 2 or more strands are twisted together, for strength and bulk, before they are knit into fabric. A yarn consisting of 2 strands is called a 2-ply yarn, etc. Frequently, a yarn will be described by 2 numbers: 60s/2s, or 80s/3s. the first number is the gauge, or thickness, of the yarn; the second number is the number of plys that make up the yarn.
Zip Ankle Cuffs
An ankle cuff with a zip closure typically consists of a piece of the bottom leg fabric turned back and sewn together, often with an elastic band insert. Zippers are sewn vertically into the bottom leg openings, which allow the user to dress without having to remove shoes or boots.
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