Trying to max Tailoring, tried the new combines using Fine Silk and Excellent Silk. I was very disappointed to see no skillups after approximately 100 combines. My Trophy, however did increase it's % toward next level of evolution.
Just for kicks, I checked the EQPlayers boards, and discovered the silks are currently bugged with a negative chance to skill-up. This bug will not be repaired until the new expansion goes live.
So, hold on to your silks for now, and wait to use them.