Towelling Dressing Gowns: The Ultimate Comfort and Practicality
Towelling dressing gowns, also known as bathrobes, are a popular and practical garment worn after a shower, bath, or swim. Made from a soft, absorbent fabric, these gowns are designed to quickly dry off the body, making them the perfect addition to any bathroom routine. In this article, we will explore the history, construction, and benefits of towelling dressing gowns.
History
The use of dressing gowns dates back to the 17th century, when they were worn by the wealthy as a luxurious garment to wear around the house. Made from expensive materials like silk and velvet, these gowns were often embellished with embroidery and lace. It wasn’t until the 19th century that towelling dressing gowns began to gain popularity. The use of cotton as a fabric made dressing gowns more affordable and accessible, no longer reserved solely for the elite. By the early 20th century, towelling dressing gowns had become common in households throughout Europe and America.
Construction
Towelling dressing gowns are made from terrycloth, a woven fabric with loops on both sides, creating a soft and fluffy texture. These loops are designed to absorb moisture, making the fabric ideal for bathrobes. Towelling dressing gowns can be made from 100% cotton or a cotton blend, which typically includes polyester to add durability and reduce shrinkage.
These gowns vary in length, ranging from knee-length to ankle-length, and some designs feature a hood for added warmth. Towelling dressing gowns are typically fastened with a tie, either made from the same fabric as the robe or a contrasting material. The tie is usually positioned at the waist or chest, depending on the style.
Benefits
Towelling dressing gowns offer several benefits. They provide warmth and comfort after a bath or shower, with the soft and fluffy texture of the fabric feeling luxurious against the skin. The absorbent nature of the material also helps dry off the body quickly, reducing the risk of catching a cold.
Additionally, towelling dressing gowns are versatile. They can be worn over nightwear or clothes, making them ideal for lounging around the house, or as a cover-up when getting ready. Whether you're applying makeup or drying your hair, a towelling dressing gown is perfect for these everyday tasks.
Unisex Design
Towelling dressing gowns are designed to suit both men and women. They typically feature a shawl collar, a belt, and pockets. Made from 100% cotton terry towelling, these gowns have a delicate yet high-quality feel, offering wonderful comfort. Terry towelling fabric is woven with long loops to make it more water-absorbent, and the longer the loops, the greater the surface area, allowing for better moisture absorption.
Though towelling dressing gowns are ideal for transitioning between bath and clothes, they are much more than just a utility item. They evoke a sense of classic luxury, reminiscent of 1940s movie stars emerging from a bath while jazz music played in the background. With their timeless appeal, towelling dressing gowns provide both comfort and style.
Choosing the Right Dressing Gown Style
When selecting a towelling dressing gown, consider when and how you’ll be using it, the time of year, and the temperatures you’ll encounter.
Shawl Collar or Hooded:
Traditional dressing gowns feature shawl collars, a rounded collar that extends down the front of the robe. Hooded gowns are similar but include a hood for extra warmth, ideal for drying hair or adding warmth. However, some may find the added bulk of the hood too heavy in warmer months.
Terry Towelling, Microfibre, or Waffle:
Terry towelling is the most popular choice due to its softness and absorbency. Microfibre dressing gowns are similarly soft and fluffy but are made from synthetic materials, which are less breathable than cotton. Waffle dressing gowns are lightweight and cool, ideal for warmer weather but less absorbent than terry towelling.
Why Are Towelling Dressing Gowns So Popular?
Towelling dressing gowns are popular for their versatility. They’re perfect for use after a shower or bath, helping to dry the body while keeping you warm and cosy. Comfortable enough to wear against bare skin, towelling robes are soft, absorbent, and durable, making them easy to maintain. Available in a wide range of colours, they are both functional and stylish.
Understanding Sizes and Weights of Towelling Dressing Gowns
The weight of towelling material is measured in GSM (grams per square meter), and a higher GSM generally indicates a denser, more luxurious fabric. For example, our Egyptian Collection dressing gowns are thick, fluffy, and incredibly soft, perfect for luxury. However, heavier gowns may be too warm for hot summer days, so a moderate GSM (like 300) might be more suitable for year-round wear. Most towelling dressing gowns are unisex and come in small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes. It’s usually best to opt for a slightly larger size to ensure comfort when lounging.
What Does ISO 9001-2000 Certification Mean in Relation to Dressing Gowns?
All dressing gowns available at Towel Heaven are manufactured in an ISO 9001-2000 certified environment. This certification ensures that we adhere to strict manufacturing standards, guaranteeing that only the best materials are used to produce high-quality products. By following these guidelines, we can maintain consistent quality and customer satisfaction.
What’s the Difference Between a Bathrobe and a Dressing Gown?
Although the terms "bathrobe" and "dressing gown" are often used interchangeably, there are some differences. Bathrobes are typically made from absorbent towelling material, designed to dry the body after a shower or bath. Dressing gowns, traditionally made from lightweight fabrics like cotton or silk, were originally worn after getting out of bed before getting dressed. Today, many people prefer towelling dressing gowns, as they offer both absorbency and comfort for lounging.
In Conclusion
Towelling dressing gowns are a versatile and practical addition to any bathroom routine. Their soft, absorbent fabric provides comfort and warmth while helping to dry off the body. Whether you prefer a knee-length or ankle-length style, with or without a hood, there’s a towelling dressing gown to suit every taste and budget. Discover your favourite new dressing gown at Towel Heaven and enjoy the ultimate in comfort and luxury.
