When discovering silk, one detail keeps appearing on the labels: 19 momme, 22 momme, sometimes 30 momme. This is by far the most useful information for comparing two pieces — yet the most poorly explained. At StudioSoie, our collections are organized by momme, precisely because this criterion determines the feel, drape, and lifespan of silk. Take three minutes: after this article, you will know exactly which weight to choose.
What is momme?
Momme (abbreviated “mm”) is a traditional unit that measures the weight and density of silk. The higher the number, the denser, heavier, more opaque, and more durable the fabric. It is the equivalent, for silk, of the “thread count” you look at for cotton sheets.
Specifically: a 16.5 momme silk is light and fluid, almost airy; a 30 momme silk is dense, full, with a remarkable drape. Neither is “better” absolutely — it all depends on the use.
The momme scale: from 16.5 to 30
| Weight | Character | Ideal use |
|---|---|---|
| 16.5 | Light, fluid, airy | Light clothing, scarves, summer pieces — See 16.5 mm |
| 19 | The perfect balance, silky and supple | Everyday pillowcases and bedding, pajamas — See 19 mm |
| 22 | Dense and enveloping — the bedding standard | High-end pillowcases and bedding sets — See 22 mm |
| 25 | Heavy, opaque, deeply luxurious | Sheets, duvet covers, premium bedding — See 25 mm |
| 30 | Exceptional, of rare density | Exceptional pieces and bedding — See 30 mm |
Simple guideline: below 19 momme, prioritize lightness and drape; from 22 momme, look for structure, opacity, and longevity.
Which momme for which use?
For bedding (pillowcases, sets)
This is where weight matters most, because a pillowcase is washed often and used every night. 22 momme is the standard: dense enough to last and provide that cool, smooth feel sought for skin and hair, without stiffness. 19 momme remains an excellent first purchase, more accessible. For a truly high-end bedroom, 25 momme offers superior opacity and drape. To explore further: our silk pillowcase collection.
For clothing and nightwear (pajamas, slips)
Here, fluidity and comfort of movement are key. 19 momme is the ideal weight for pajamas: light, silky, thermoregulating. 16.5 momme suits the lightest, summer pieces. Discover our silk pajamas.
For accessories (scarves, scrunchies, masks)
Drape takes precedence over density: a light to medium weight (16.5 to 19 momme) offers the suppleness and shine expected of a scarf or scrunchie.
Momme, grade 6A, mulberry silk: the trio not to confuse
Three different terms describe the quality of silk, and it’s easy to mix them up:
Momme measures density (the fabric’s weight). Grade — including the famous 6A — describes fiber quality: its length, uniformity, and absence of impurities. Mulberry silk refers to origin: the purest and most consistent silk, from silkworms fed exclusively on mulberry leaves.
Exceptional silk combines all three: 100% mulberry silk, grade 6A, and the momme suited to the use. A high momme on poor fiber is not worth a well-chosen 6A fiber. All our silks are 100% mulberry — discover them in the Mulberry Silk collection.
Our selection by weight
Rather than guessing, start from your use and let momme guide you. For everyday bedding, start with 22 momme; for pajamas, 19; for an exceptional piece, 25 or 30.