Final answer:
The primary characteristic of shantung fabric is its distinctive texture, which is due to the use of slubbed yarns during weaving. This texture provides a unique and elegant look to the fabric, making it desirable for formal attire.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary characteristic of a fabric referred to as "shantung" is its texture. Shantung is a type of silk fabric that is known for its distinctive and somewhat irregular surface texture, which is a result of using slubbed yarns in the weaving process.
Textile mediums, such as silk, linen, and cotton, have a rich history, and the way they are woven or dyed affects both their appearance and their use. For example, silk has been an economic staple traded along the Silk Road due to its shimmering surface, and cotton has been a standard fabric since the Middle Ages.