Understanding fabrics and slow fashion

Have you ever wondered why a garment is made with a particular fabric? Or what fabrics are more sustainable than others? What is natural, synthetic or perhaps a combination of both? Below we give you a quick run-down on types of fabrics, including more sustainable options to consider.

Clothing fabrics can be divided into two main categories: natural and synthetic. Natural fabrics are made from fibres that are found in nature, such as cotton, linen,

wool, and silk. Synthetic fabrics are made from man-made fibres, such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic.

Natural Fabrics

· Cotton: Cotton is one of the most popular fabrics in the world. It is soft, breathable, and absorbent. Cotton is often used to make t-shirts, jeans, and other casual clothing.

· Linen: Linen is a strong and durable fabric made from the flax plant. It is also very breathable and absorbent. Linen is often used to make summer clothing, such as shirts, dresses, and shorts.

· Wool: Wool is a natural fibre that comes from sheep. It is warm and soft, and it also has natural wicking properties. Wool is often used to make sweaters, coats, and other cold-weather clothing.

· Silk: Silk is a luxurious fabric made from the cocoons of silkworms. It is soft, smooth, and shiny. Silk is often used to make dresses, blouses, and other formal wear.

Synthetic Fabrics

· Polyester: Polyester is a versatile fabric that is often used to make a variety of clothing items. Polyester is strong, durable, and wrinkle-resistant.

· Nylon: Nylon is a lightweight and durable fabric that is often used to make activewear, swimwear, and outerwear. Nylon is also water-resistant and quick-drying.

· Acrylic: Acrylic is a soft and synthetic fibre that is often used to make sweaters, hats, and scarves. Acrylic is also hypoallergenic and resistant to moths.

Other types of clothing fabrics include:

· Rayon: Rayon is a semi-synthetic fabric made from wood pulp. It is soft and breathable, and it can be draped and dyed like silk. Rayon is often used to make dresses, blouses, and other formal wear.

· Satin: Satin is a smooth and shiny fabric that can be made from a variety of fibres, including silk, polyester, and nylon. Satin is often used to make dresses, blouses, and lingerie.

· Velvet: Velvet is a soft and luxurious fabric with a thick pile. It can be made from a variety of fibres, including silk, cotton, and polyester. Velvet is often used to make evening wear, coats, and other special occasion clothing.

The most sustainable fabrics are those that are made from natural fibres and produced using sustainable methods. Some examples of sustainable fabrics include:

· Organic cotton: Organic cotton is grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, which reduces its environmental impact.

· Hemp: Hemp is a fast-growing plant that requires little water or pesticides. It is also a strong and durable fibre, making it a good choice for clothing and other products.

· Linen: Linen is made from the flax plant, which is also relatively low maintenance. Linen is a lightweight and breathable fabric.

· Recycled fabrics: Recycled fabrics are made from post-consumer or post-industrial waste. This helps to reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfills and conserve resources.

· Tencel: Tencel is a type of lyocell that is made from wood pulp. It is produced using a closed-loop system, which means that most of the water and chemicals used in the production process are recycled.