Last summer my husband and I spent a week in Florence with friends who were there on a three-month sabbatical. When I asked my girlfriend, Patti, what clothes to bring, she answered: “It’s really hot here. Everyone’s wearing gauze.” Not even sure what gauze was, I investigated further.

When I think of gauze, I think of white bandage material that comes in squares. You use on cuts and injuries.

What is Gauze Fabric?

“Cotton gauze is a lightweight fabric made of cotton. It is made of plain weave or by a leno weave. In technical terms “gauze” is a weave structure in which the weft yarns are arranged in pairs and are crossed before and after each warp yarn keeping the weft firmly in place.”

This single weave gauze too transparent for clothing. The tighter woven cotton gauze used in garments today is referred to as DOUBLE GAUZE or BUBBLE GAUZE.

I LOVE Gauze for so many reasons:

• Soft, lightweight, and breathable (after all, it is cotton)
• Washes great and doesn’t wrinkle like linen (which is made from stiffer flax fiber)
• Absorbent, meaning it wicks up that perspiration (remember those blood-stained gauze pads)
• Since it’s cotton, it takes dye really well (ergo, you can find it in so many colors)
• It seems to glide effortlessly over your body (not form fitting like jersey or boxy like linen)
• It’s transitional, meaning it’s a good choice for long sleeve cooler mornings turning into warmer afternoons
• A favorite for children’s garments because it is so soft

Bubble gauze is so perfect for kids and babies.

On a recent trip to Key West, Florida, I saw gauze EVERYWHERE.

And, you can put your own stylish stamp on it:

Maybe I’m behind and all of you already knew about the many virtues of gauze. Let us know all the reasons you love it!