A Short History of Corduroy

Corduroy’s lineage can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where the earliest versions of this fabric, known as “fustian,” were developed. However, it was in the city of Manchester, England, during the Industrial Revolution that corduroy began to take its modern form. Manchester became known as “Cottonopolis” due to its burgeoning cotton industry, which played a pivotal role in refining and popularizing corduroy. Initially, the fabric was favored for its durability and affordability, making it a popular choice for the working class, particularly factory workers and laborers. As the 20th century unfolded, corduroy began to shed its utilitarian associations. In the 1920s and 1930s, it found favor among the intellectual and academic circles, becoming synonymous with professors and students. This shift marked corduroy’s initial foray into the realms of respectability and style, positioning it as a fabric that balanced functionality with a touch of sartorial flair. <a href="https://medium.com/ai-and-mens-fashion/a-short-history-of-corduroy-8c5c6b5eeff9">Website</a>