Sustainable Fabrics 101: What to Look for When Shopping Slow Fashion
Sustainability is no longer a buzzword — it’s a movement reshaping how we think about fashion. At the heart of slow fashion is the use of sustainable fabrics that minimize environmental impact while offering quality and comfort at the same time.
Why Sustainable Fabrics Matter
Fast fashion has flooded the market with cheap, synthetic materials that pollute and degrade. Sustainable fabrics, on the other hand, are renewable, biodegradable, and often produced with less water and energy.
Choosing garments made from these materials supports ethical manufacturing and durability — two pillars of slow fashion.
Key Sustainable Fabrics to Know
Organic Cotton: Grown without harmful pesticides or chemicals, organic cotton is softer on your skin (and the planet.)
Linen: Made from flax plants, linen uses less water and chemicals than cotton. It’s breathable, durable, and only gets better with wear.
Hemp: Known for its strength and sustainability, hemp requires minimal water and enriches soil, making it an eco-friendly superstar.
Tencel (Lyocell): Produced from sustainably sourced wood pulp, Tencel is silky soft, breathable, biodegradable, and the fabric handle is luxurious and soft.
Recycled Fabrics: These include recycled polyester or nylon, made from plastic bottles or textile waste, giving new life to discarded materials.
How to Spot Sustainable Fabrics When Shopping
Check Labels: Look for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), OEKO-TEX, or Fair Trade.
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to inquire about fabric origins and production processes when shopping boutique or online.
Feel the Fabric: Sustainable fabrics often feel softer and more breathable compared to synthetic blends.
Caring for Your Sustainable Clothes
Slow fashion is about longevity — caring for your garments so they last. Follow care labels carefully, avoid over-washing, and choose gentle detergents. When clothes do wear out, consider repairing or donating to keep them in the cycle.
