Lycra is just another name or brand name for spandex. It is used to designate fabrics for swimwear, sportswear or dancewear. These are usually made of polyamide with an elastane content of 18 to 25 percent. This makes them very elastic and snuggles up to the shape of the body.

Jersey Knit, also known as tricot, is a knitted cotton fabric, mostly with elastane. Its light and soft feel makes it the most popular fabric for t-shirts. But jogging pants, hats, dresses and much more can also be sewn from it.