What kind of fabric is characterized by a smooth, lustrous front and a dull back?

Satin is defined by its unique structure that gives it a smooth, shiny front surface, accomplished through a weaving technique that uses multiple warp threads over a single weft thread. This results in a fabric that has a luxurious appearance and feels soft to the touch. The back of satin, in contrast, appears dull and lacks the same level of sheen, making this characteristic a distinct feature of satin compared to other fabrics.

While silk can also have similar shiny qualities, satin specifically refers to the weave pattern rather than the fiber content. Velvet, on the other hand, is a pile fabric that typically has a soft texture on both sides, while denim is a sturdy cotton twill that doesn’t exhibit the sleekness or luster associated with satin. Therefore, the defining features of satin, with its smooth and lustrous front and dull back, make it the correct answer.