Lame is a type of cloth with metallic threads. ‘Lame’ in translation from French is a ‘metal plate’. Gold and silver wires from flattened metal were wrapped around threads to create shiny apparel. Lame fabric can be made with metallic fibres for exclusive garments and metal coated plastic for more affordable ones. Moreover, synthetic fibres make the fabric lightweight, and easier to care for and handle it when sewing. Lame fabric is more widely available, but types of lame that feature precious metals remain incredibly expensive. Both genuine and imitation lame are commonly used in high fashion and costumes.