Melange (also known as heather fabric) has a signature mottled or mixed-color look — a favorite in streetwear, basics, and activewear.
It adds visual depth, softness, and a laid-back vibe to your products.
At HEM APPAREL, we work with a wide range of melange fabrics — from cotton and CVC to performance blends — perfect for tees, loungewear, or uniforms.
🧵 What is Melange Fabric?
Melange is made by blending different colored fibers before knitting or weaving.
This creates a yarn with a natural two-tone or multi-tone appearance.
✅ Unlike printing, the color is built into the yarn — so it won't fade or peel
✅ Results in a grainy, vintage-like texture that's soft and visually rich
🎨 Common Melange Types
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Heather Grey (white + grey): most popular and versatile
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Charcoal Mix: deeper tone, great for menswear and workwear
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Blue or Red Mix: used in sporty or athleisure collections
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Salt & Pepper: sharp contrast, speckled effect
👕 Fabric Bases Used with Melange
| Base Fabric | Application |
|---|---|
| 100% Cotton | Classic tees, natural drape |
| CVC (Cotton-Poly) | More durable, wrinkle-resistant |
| Polyester-Spandex | Ideal for activewear, stretch fit |
| Rayon Blends | Soft, flowy styles for womenswear |
✅ Even basic styles look elevated when using melange texture
✅ Benefits of Melange
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Adds depth without using prints
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Great for hiding sweat or wrinkles
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Feels casual, cozy, and modern
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Makes prints pop better on lighter tones
⚠️ Things to Watch For
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You can’t fake melange — the yarn must be dyed/blended at the fiber stage
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Deep melange colors may affect print visibility
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Slight shade variation can happen between dye lots — test before bulk
🧠 HEM APPAREL’s Tip:
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Use melange grey or blue for a casual premium vibe
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For retro or vintage streetwear → go with dark melange + heavier GSM
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For bold prints, pair light melange + darker ink for best contrast
We can help you choose the right blend and GSM based on your fit and finish goals.
