Mulberry Silk vs Charmeuse Silk: Key Differences & How to Choose The Right Fabric

Key Takeaways

• Mulberry silk, made from Bombyx mori silkworms, stands out for its high quality, long-lasting strength, and hypoallergenic nature.

• Charmeuse silk is all about the weave; it has a glossy front and matte back, giving it that rich, luxurious look that's perfect for stylish apparel.

• When deciding between the two, think about how you’ll use it, what you’re willing to spend, and how much upkeep you're okay with.

• Mulberry silk is a top pick for bedding thanks to its smooth feel and skin-loving qualities, while charmeuse is often the star in flowing dresses or blouses.

• Mayfairsilk takes it up a notch with 100% Grade 6A long-fiber mulberry silk, expertly crafted and sustainably made to bring a little everyday luxury to your skin, hair, and sleep.

Mulberry Silk vs Charmeuse Silk: What You Need to Know

Silk has always had that timeless appeal: smooth, luxurious, and effortlessly elegant. If you're torn between mulberry silk and charmeuse silk, you’re not alone. They’re both beautiful, but they serve different purposes depending on what you’re after.

What Is Mulberry Silk?

Mulberry silk comes from Bombyx mori silkworms that are fed only mulberry leaves, which means the fibers are super long, smooth, and durable. It feels incredibly soft, helps regulate temperature, and is naturally hypoallergenic, so it’s great if you’ve got sensitive skin. You’ll usually find it in high-end pillowcases, sheets, and sleepwear that are designed to feel as good as they look.

Mulberry silk starts with silkworms fed exclusively on mulberry leaves, resulting in finer, stronger, and more uniform fibers.

What Is Charmeuse Silk?

Charmeuse isn’t a type of silk; it’s more about the way the fabric is woven. It has that signature shiny front and matte back, which gives it a glamorous finish and a beautiful drape. It’s often made with mulberry silk, too, but charmeuse can also be made from synthetics. You’ll see it in everything from evening gowns and lingerie to stylish blouses and elegant bedding.

Key Differences: Mulberry Silk vs Charmeuse Silk

How to Choose the Right Fabric

1. Consider the End Use

If you're after something for sleepwear or bedding, pure mulberry silk, especially in a charmeuse weave, is your best bet. It’s ultra-soft, long-lasting, and kind to your skin and hair. For flowing dresses or elegant blouses, charmeuse silk brings that glossy, high-end look and beautiful drape. And if you're on a budget, charmeuse made with synthetic fibers can still give you that shine, just without the full luxury of real silk.

Charmeuse silk has a glossy finish and fluid drape, making it ideal for elegant garments that need to flow and shine.

2. Prioritise Fiber Content

Not all charmeuse is created equal. If it’s made from pure mulberry silk, you’re in for softness, breathability, and those nice hypoallergenic perks. If it’s synthetic, expect a bit less comfort.

3. Maintenance

Both mulberry silk and silk charmeuse need a gentle treatment; hand washing or a delicate cycle with mild detergent will keep them looking their best. Synthetic versions are lower maintenance, but you’ll be trading off that rich, natural feel.

4. Climate & Comfort

Mulberry silk is awesome at keeping you cool in the heat and cozy in the cold, which makes it perfect year-round. Just know that charmeuse has a shiny side that might show sweat a bit more, so if you're in a warmer climate or looking for nightwear, that’s something to keep in mind.

Sleep Better, Live Better with Mayfairsilk

Getting great sleep shouldn’t be complicated; it just starts with the right fabric. That’s why we use the finest Grade 6A long-fiber mulberry silk in every piece we make. It’s unbelievably soft, naturally breathable, and gentle on your skin and hair. Once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to ordinary bedding.

So what makes Mayfairsilk so special?

It comes down to quality you can feel and craftsmanship you can trust. Our silk is 100% pure mulberry silk; hypoallergenic, temperature-regulating, and biodegradable. We combine traditional weaving techniques with modern precision to create that signature smooth matte finish. And the best part? It’s machine washable on a delicate cycle, so luxury doesn’t mean high maintenance.

Mayfairsilk’s long-fiber mulberry silk sheets stay cool, feel buttery soft, and are easy to care for, making luxury sleep effortless.

What you’ll find in our collection

Our bestselling 25 momme pillowcases are buttery soft and ultra-durable, perfect for smoother skin and healthier hair. Wrap yourself in our 22 momme silk sheets and duvet sets for a full-body upgrade in comfort. Add an eye mask to block out distractions or slip on a silk scrunchie to protect your hair overnight. Every item is made with care to enhance your nightly routine.

Here’s where we stand out

We don’t just talk about quality; we’ve been recognized for it. Our dedication to excellence has earned us multiple consumer and industry awards, celebrating everything from our craftsmanship to our commitment to your well-being. These honors are proof that we deliver more than luxury. We deliver products that help you sleep deeper, feel better, and wake up refreshed. Every stitch, every finish, and every design choice is made with your comfort in mind.

Shop our collections today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the main differences between mulberry and charmeuse silk?

Mulberry silk comes straight from Bombyx mori silkworms, which are fed only mulberry leaves. That makes it incredibly soft, strong, and consistent in quality. Charmeuse silk, on the other hand, isn't a type of silk but a weaving style. It gives the fabric that classic glossy front and matte back, perfect when you want a touch of glamour in your clothes or bedding.

Is mulberry silk better for skincare compared to charmeuse silk?

Absolutely. Mulberry silk is naturally hypoallergenic and has a super smooth texture, so it’s gentle on your skin and hair. It helps reduce friction, which means fewer sleep lines, less frizz, and a lower chance of waking up with pillow face.

Which silk type is more durable?

Mulberry silk wins here, too. Its long, continuous fibers make it stronger and more resistant to wear and tear. Charmeuse silk is beautiful but a bit more delicate because of its weave, so it can snag more easily if you're not careful.

Why has mulberry silk become so popular recently?

More people are looking for skin-friendly, natural fabrics that feel amazing and are good for the planet. Mulberry silk ticks all those boxes. It’s breathable, helps regulate temperature, and adds a touch of everyday luxury, especially when it’s used in bedding and sleepwear.

What makes Mayfairsilk products stand out in the silk market?

Mayfairsilk takes things up a notch by using only 100% Grade 6A long-fiber mulberry silk—the best you can get. It’s certified safe by OEKO-TEX, handcrafted to perfection, and machine washable. Plus, it’s won multiple awards, so you know you’re getting premium quality that looks and feels amazing.