A number of years ago I wrote a post to explain Ponte Knit. (pon-tee) I still receive many questions from this post, and I thought it was time to update it.
The brainstorm for writing it back then was a great black pencil skirt. I was quite enamored with it because immediately I noticed there was some “give”. I could actually move and sit comfortably in a pencil skirt. It became a favorite.
So what exactly is ponte? It’s a combination of RAYON, POLYESTER and SPANDEX. For all of you out there who love natural fabrics, you may want to click off of this post right now. Hear me out. Ponte holds its shape because the fabric is tightly woven. It travels well, doesn’t fade and is super comfortable. It rarely wrinkles and wears extremely well. For some, it may feel too heavy especially in certain climates. I get that. Because of the right combination, and the fact that it does not feel like the poly of the seventies, I consider it to be chic polyester!
Now, nearly a decade later, ponte knit is everywhere and most women have owned several things in this fabrication. With the rage of leggings in recent years, more women started singing the praises of the ease and comfort this fabric brings.
That may lead to your next question. Where do I get it and how will I know it is considered ponte?
Most things will NOT be marked ponte knit, you need to look at the fabric content: Rayon, Polyester and Spandex.
(note the fabric content on the pair below will say viscose (rayon) nylon and elastane)
SOURCES FOR PONTE KNIT:
When searching Ponte knit pants at Nordstrom (best variety of style and various price points) you will find some great choices now. Here are a few of my favorites.
NYDJ still rates high with clients. This label runs fairly generous. This particular pair of pants comes in a straight cut which is hard to find in ponte. It also comes in a plaid version for a more updated look. Extended sizes too! (I refer to both plus sizes and petites as extended sizes.)
These are the perfect work pants for those who have an office dress code. The straighter cut is feasible for women who do not want something too fitted. I will also say that many of the skinny ponte ankle pants on the market are perceived as “legging- like” by some work places. Unfortunately, conservative offices have not kept up with fashion and it frustrating for women who have to abide by these stricter dress codes. Nic and Zoe and Karen Kane, all good labels to try. Make sure to read reviews and check the leg opening measurement on the skinnier cuts.
Vince Camuto is another popular style. These are a slimmer cut that runs pretty true to size. I have helped many women purchase this pair, but this cut can seem like a legging to some. It is not! It’s all about body type and the straight and boot cut look great on some body types. Others can do a skinny cut.
This is a pair of ponte knit from Cabi a few years ago. Every season they have more choices so definitely check that out too. This picture was an idea for a client on how to dress down all of her work pants for a recent post on that topic!
Now it’s over to you. Are you a fan of ponte knit? Has it been one of your go-to wardrobe pieces over the years? Will you embrace it more knowing some labels are including some cotton?
