Most of us glance at price tags when shopping—but how often do we check fabric labels? The materials used to make your clothes have a huge impact on comfort, performance, and environmental footprint. Let’s break down the key differences between natural and synthetic fabrics:
Natural Fabrics
These come from plants, animals, or minerals and are biodegradable. At Natural Fashion, we use materials like:
• Linen – Durable, breathable, and perfect for warm weather
• Cotton – Soft, comfortable, and versatile
• Bamboo – Silky, hypoallergenic, and naturally antibacterial
• Banana fibre – A waste-free, resilient alternative to silk
• Rose fibre & orange fibre – Made from waste by-products of the flower and fruit industries
• Bemberg satin – A regenerated cellulose fibre that mimics silk without harming silkworms
Benefits of natural fabrics:
• Breathable and gentle on skin
• Biodegradable and renewable
• Long-lasting when cared for properly
Synthetic Fabrics
These are made from petrochemicals (e.g. plastic). Examples include polyester, nylon, acrylic, and spandex.
Issues with synthetics:
• Non-biodegradable—can take hundreds of years to break down
• Often treated with harmful chemicals
• Less breathable, which can trap heat and odour
• Release microplastics into waterways when washed
The takeaway?
Natural fabrics offer a luxurious feel and align with a slower, more responsible approach to fashion. By choosing natural over synthetic, you’re investing in your comfort—and the planet.