With rising temperatures rises Pakistan's summer fashion scene in full bloom. In a multiverse of fabrics suited to elevate summer wardrobes, two fabrics dominate the season as always: paper cotton and lawn. Whether you're exploring the market to add Pakistani lawn frocks to your wardrobe, eyeing lightweight embroidered lawn suits, or looking for the crisp feel of paper cotton, the right choice between these fabrics can shape your entire summer experience.
The real question has always been: which fabric really holds the test of time, heat and style stakes? This blog walks you through all the necessary aspects that you need to know to make a smart style choice this summer season.
Lawn is a fine, plain weave textile made typically of cotton but it can also be blended with other fibers like silk or rayon. It has gained its popularity because of lightweight nature, breathability and softness and now stands as a staple in South Asian summer wear. Originating from Europe but perfected in Pakistan, lawn has become a cultural fashion identity. The fabric floods the market every spring and summer in different varieties such as embroidered lawn suits, fancy lawn and other lawn suit designs hence making it a wardrobe essential.
Lawn can be:
Basic lawn – suited for everyday wear, highly affordable and available.
Fancy lawn – features light and heavy embellishments and laces. Perfect for formal occasions or fusion styling.
Embroidered lawn suits – enhanced with threadwork, cutwork or patterns. Ideal for semiformal and formal wear.
Styled in the form of kurtis, shalwar kameez or Pakistani lawn frocks, its vibrant prints and creative designs keep you comfortable, cool and stylish throughout summer.
Paper cotton fabric is yet another product of lightweight cotton, crafted from its linters. It is known for its crisp texture which mimics the feel of paper however, not to be confused for stiff or uncomfortable nature. Paper cotton is breathable and soft enough to be worn as clothing but has a firmer hold compared to lawn which avoids the fabric from clinging to the skin. Since paper cotton holds its shape better, it is ideal for tailored or structured summer outfits.
Some of the major differences between lawn and paper cotton fabric is the way each fabric feels and drapes on the body.
Lawn is flowy, soft and buttery. It drapes easily giving a gentle and breezy look. Best suited for days when comfort is top priority. If you’re going for gathers, pleats or flare, lawn is the ideal option.
Paper cotton has a stiff and structured texture. However breathable, it lacks the flowy drape of lawn. It gives your look a polished touch which is why the fabric is highly preferred as clean silhouettes for formal occasions.
It is without doubt that Pakistani summers are scorching. The question arises: which fabric performs better against the brutal summer season?
Lawn, thanks to its loose weave and fine fibers, is extremely airy and soft in nature. It allows appropriate airflow making it a fabric of choice for summer wardrobe. Summer lawn outfits can be worn for long hours without compromising on comfort.
Paper cotton also offers breathability but since it is structured in nature, the soft airy feeling is reduced slightly. It still makes a viable summer fabric suited for more professional looks than casual looks like summer lawn.
If you view from a fashion perspective, both fabrics are subject to distinctive aesthetics and taste.
Lawn suit designs have been in trend since decades now and are diverse. Every year, the market is met with a surge in a variety of lawn collections featuring digital prints, intricate embroidery and floral motifs. The fashion trends range from minimalist chic to elaborate fancy lawn ensembles of all kinds and color.
Lawn is ideal for both casual and formal wear.
It is dye friendly, which means it can be colored according to your choice.
It is highly suited for embroidery and printing
Paper cotton fabric has lately gained popularity due to its sleek look and luxurious feel. It is often seen as:
Embroidered three piece suits.
Minimalistic cutwork and monochrome outfits.
Semi formal suits with applique and mukesh work.
Every fabric requires care when it comes to practicality. The difference lies in how they hold up with time and age.
Lawn is fine and delicate. With frequent washing, the threads loosen up leading to fading of the fabric. It wrinkles easily hence requires daily ironing.
Paper cotton holds shape and is more wrinkle resistant due to its tough texture. It also sustains better against washing without losing its crisp look, making it a lasting investment for long-term use.
When it comes to building a wardrobe, budget is a concern. Hence a big factor in choosing between these two fabrics is price as well.
Lawn, especially high quality can range from affordable to high priced depending on design, embroidery and embellishment. Basic lawn, however, is extremely budget friendly and available.
Paper cotton is generally priced moderately. It is slightly pricier, if adorned with tarkashi, mukaish or applique than basic lawn. But it still makes an affordable choice for a wardrobe investment.
In Pakistan, basic lawn is available everywhere during the season, from street vendors to high end boutiques. Paper cotton fabric is not as widely stocked. Apka Libas offers a great variety of both fabrics under one roof. Making your decisions easy and accessible this hot summer season.
While both lawn and paper cotton fabrics can be styled for a wide range of occasions, both have their own significance in different settings.
Lawn stands out in festive settings in forms of embroidered lawn suits or fancy lawn. The softness of fabric, the visual appeal its prints and designs impart and the ability to carry embellishments makes it a staple for your ideal summer wardrobe. As long as casual looks are concerned, summer without lawn is incomplete. Its breathable nature and comfortable feel is the only way to face the heavy summer season in Pakistan.
Paper cotton, on the other hand, shines in structured silhouettes and minimalist fashion. It can be styled for semi formal and formal occasions when a polished, sleek and more tailored look is preferred.
Apka Libas, At Your Service
At Apka Libas, every fabric showcases the distinctive textile legacy of multan and multani artisans. Paper cotton is combined with delicate handwork of pakka tanka, gotta work, mukaish and tarkashi which reflects the regional artisan’s expertise. Meanwhile, the lawn collection offers a variety of summer lawn ensembles like three piece suits with chikankari, digital prints and jaal embroidery. Every piece is designed keeping wear ease, cultural and modern standards in mind so customers enjoy the season fully in style and comfort.
Pros:
Highly breathable and cool in nature.
Soft and skin friendly.
Variety of prints, designs and embroidery.
Ideal for flowy outfits like lawn frocks, or day to day shalwar kameez.
Cons:
Prone to wrinkling
Colors fade and fabric wears out with frequent washing.
Delicate, not ideal for long-term.
Pros:
Sleek and structured look.
Wrinkle resistant.
Sustainable and easy maintenance.
Ideal for minimal and tailored outfits.
Cons:
Less airy compared to lawn.
Limited print and embroidery options.
So, who winds the fashion style game this season, Lawn or Paper cotton? The answer entirely lies in your preference and needs.
If you prioritise comfort yet vibrant fashion, for traditional, festive or casual occasions, then lawn is your summer go-to. From casual two piece suits to elaborate embroidered lawn suits, it offers diversity, style and elegance equally.
However, if you prefer minimalism, low maintenance fabrics, clean and tailored appearance then paper cotton fabric will serve your style better.
There’s no one-option-fits-all answer, but there is always the right fabric for the right vibe, occasion and mood. Style doesn't always have to be just about trends, style is what makes you feel your best and that is exactly the agenda behind all Apka Libas lawn and paper cotton articles.
