Jersey Knit Explained
In brief: Jersey is a single-knit fabric with a smooth face of V-shaped stitches and a textured reverse of horizontal loops. Named after Jersey in the Channel Islands, it has inherent stretch across its width, typically 25 to 50 percent, without needing elastane. It can be knitted light at 120 to 150 GSM or heavy at 200 to 280 GSM, from cotton, polyester, wool, silk or blends, and it drapes smoothly while resisting wrinkles.
What is jersey knit?
Jersey is a single-knit fabric defined by its two faces: a smooth front made of V-shaped stitches and a textured reverse of horizontal loops. It is named after Jersey in the Channel Islands, where the knitting style originated. The defining feature is built-in stretch. Jersey knitting creates inherent give across the width of the fabric, typically 25 to 50 percent, without any elastane added. That natural stretch is what makes it so comfortable for everyday wear.
Weights and fibres
Jersey is versatile across both weight and fibre. It ranges from lightweight cloth at around 120 to 150 GSM, used for fine T-shirts and base layers, up to heavyweight versions at 200 to 280 GSM for more structured pieces. It can be knitted from cotton, polyester, wool, silk or blends of these, so the same basic construction can feel crisp and cool or warm and substantial depending on the yarn chosen. Across all of them, jersey drapes smoothly, resists wrinkling and conforms to the body.
Single versus double jersey
There are two main types. Single jersey is lighter, stretchier and tends to curl at cut edges. Double jersey is knitted on two needle beds, which adds stability, weight and a smooth finish on both sides. For T-shirts and base layers, single jersey delivers comfortable drape. For more structured garments such as polo shirts, double jersey provides better body and shape retention. Choosing between them is really a choice between softness and structure.
Jersey Knit at OD's Designer Clothing
Premium jersey features across T-shirts and casualwear from BOSS, HUGO, Paul Smith and Sandbanks. It is the unsung fabric behind a great-fitting tee: the right weight, the right stretch and a clean drape. Browse our T-shirt and casual ranges to feel the difference good jersey makes.