Lamé (fabric)

Lamé (/lɑːˈmeɪ/ lah-MAY; French: [lame]) is a type of fabric woven or knit[1] with threads made of metallic fiber wrapped around natural or synthetic fibers like silk, nylon, or spandex for added strength and stretch.

A problem with lamé is that it is subject to seam or yarn slippage, making it less than ideal for garments worn frequently.

The wrapped fibers can be coated in plastic to increase strength and to prevent tarnishing.

Lamé is often used in evening and dress wear and in theatrical and dance costumes.

It is also most commonly used in futuristic costumes and spacesuits for science fiction television, films, and performances.

Gold-lamé and emerald royal boudoir gown from the film Cleopatra (1934)