What fabric is closest to satin?

The fabric closest to satin depends on whether you mean closest in look and feel or closest in construction. In terms of look, feel, and luxury drape, the closest fabric to silk satin is charmeuse. In fact, charmeuse is technically a type of satin weave made with silk, with a very shiny front and dull back, lightweight and fluid. Many people use the terms silk satin and silk charmeuse interchangeably. If you are looking for a non-silk alternative that mimics satin, the closest is sateen. Sateen is the satin weave equivalent made from cotton. It has a similar glossy surface and soft hand but is made from short-staple cotton fibers, so it is more breathable, less shiny, and more durable than polyester satin. Other close cousins are crepe-back satin and duchess satin, which are heavier variations of the satin weave. For someone wanting the satin look without plastic, the best natural substitutes are silk charmeuse, cotton sateen, and cupro, which is made from cotton waste and has a beautiful silk-like drape and breathability.