The Top Natural Fibres List (And Why They Matter in Sustainable Fashion)

The fashion industry can unanimously agree that our impact on the planet is a problem. Yet, we cannot agree on a solution. And by way of inaction, we collectively choose to do nothing at all. But you are different. You personally are responsible for the materials you choose for your team and you know that choosing natural fibers will allow you to be more sustainable. Right? Here’s why.

Petroleum and Recycling Do Not Mix
Polyester and most synthetic fabrics are derived from petroleum. Yes you are wearing oil. The problem grows when you realize that most fabrics have some form of poly-blend in their content. So even though cotton is meant to return to mother nature, oil does not allow it, adding to our textile waste problem.

Natural Fibres List
Alpaca Wool - Primarily from South America this wool is stronger and lighter than sheep’s wool and blends well with wool, mohair, and silk.

Angora Wool - From basically the fluffiest bunny you’ll ever see, it’s fur is super soft, light, and absorbs water and dye well.

Cotton - The fabric of our lives. Highly absorbent, strong, and easy to wash.

Camel Hair - Wide array of uses for soft, warm winter items. Baby camel hair is on par with cashmere and just as luxurious.

Flax - Like cotton, flax is a cellulose fibre, but stronger and crisper.  It’s more easily wrinkled, but it absorbs and releases water quickly making it ideal for hot climates.

Cashmere - Found from the chin hairs of little baby goats (seriously) primarily in Asia, cashmere is warm without the weight and luxuriously soft.
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Hemp - This cellulose conducts heat, dyes well, resists mildew, and has natural antibacterial properties.

Mohair - Harvested from Angora goats, mohair is light and insulating and stronger and softer than merino wool.

Pinatex - Created from the pulp of pineapples as a byproduct of the farming industry. This innovative textile science is making waves in the vegan leather community as designers search for durable animal-friendly options.

Jute - Harvested from bark in tropical areas of Asia, this natural fibre is one of the strongest vegetable fibres and second only to cotton in production. However it’s rougher texture make it more ideal for your packaging options.

Silk - This natural fibre offers great strength and softness as well as great absorbency and dyes easily. However, it’s harvested from the cocoon of silkworms which can be controversial so be advised.

Ramie - This bark of this plant creates a fibre that is similar to flax but more coarse. It has low elasticity but dyes easily and is one of the strongest natural fibres. Blend this with other natural fibres like wool to reduce shrinking.

Wool - This sheep derived fibre is very bulky providing better warmth in addition to being resilient, elastic, and durable. In a blend, wool adds drape and crease resistance.

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