What a coat lining does
The lining is the layer inside a coat. It helps the coat slide on and off over other clothes, hides the seams and construction, adds some warmth, and protects the outer fabric from sweat and friction. A good lining is smooth, reasonably breathable and durable enough to handle daily wear on the shoulders, sleeves and underarms.
Bemberg (cupro) lining
Bemberg is a brand name for cupro, a fibre regenerated from cotton by-products (see is cupro a natural fabric). It is a widely used lining for tailored coats and jackets because it feels smooth, breathes better than most synthetics, and tends to reduce static. It is usually priced higher than polyester and often needs gentle care or dry cleaning, so check the label.
Viscose and rayon
Viscose is a plant-based manufactured fibre with a soft feel and good breathability (more in is viscose breathable). It is commonly used in coat linings at moderate prices. It can be less strong, especially when wet, so it may wear out sooner in high-friction areas.
Acetate
Acetate has a silky look and a smooth surface, and it is inexpensive. It is common in ready-to-wear coats. It can be weaker and less breathable than cupro or viscose, and it is often dry-clean only.
Polyester and taffeta
Polyester linings are durable, inexpensive and easy to look after. Polyester taffeta has a crisp feel and a slight rustle. The downsides are lower breathability and a tendency to build up static in dry conditions. For many everyday coats, they are a practical option.
Silk and satin
Silk linings feel luxurious and breathe well, but they cost more and can wear through at stress points. Satin linings, made of silk or polyester, are very smooth. Polyester satin is more affordable and hardier.
Cotton and flannel
Cotton lining is breathable and comfortable, and flannel brushed cotton can add warmth for cold weather. These fabrics grip other clothing a bit more, so they are less slippery than smooth linings, and some people find that makes putting the coat on harder.
Quilted and fleece linings for winter
Winter coats often use a quilted lining, which has a layer of padding, or a fleece or pile lining for added warmth. These are usually polyester. They add insulation but also bulk. Some coats combine a smooth lining in the sleeves, to help with sliding on, and an insulated lining in the body.
What is the inside of a coat called?
The fabric layer is called the lining. A separate layer of padding or wadding between the lining and the outer fabric is called an interlining, and is a common way to add warmth without changing the outer look.
How to choose
- For tailored wool coats: Bemberg or viscose are common, for breathability and a smooth feel.
- For budget or hard-wearing coats: polyester is a practical choice.
- For cold climates: consider flannel, quilted or fleece linings, or an interlining.
- For sensitive skin: natural or regenerated cellulose fibres often feel more comfortable.
Your lining should suit the outer fabric. Read our guide to the best fabrics for coats to match the shell with the lining, and see the best fabric for a blazer for similar considerations in tailored jackets.