Not sure which fabrics are best for sustainable shopping?

Now that December is on the horizon, it’s time to officially indulge in cosy jumpers, snuggly scarves, and coats which can defend us against the unpredictable British weather. When you’re updating your wardrobe, opting for certain materials can have a huge impact on the lifespan of your new clothes… because nobody wants to buy a new outfit today, to throw it away in a year!

But what should you look for? There are primarily two options for clothes: synthetic or natural fabric. Synthetic fabrics are man-made, produced largely from chemicals to create fabrics like polyester. Natural fabrics are created using animal- or plant-based fibres.

You may have heard of natural fibres recently as part of the online underconsumption-core trend, but these materials have long been an essential feature of timeless wardrobes. It comes down to their fabric composition. Natural fibres will hold their desired shape for longer, along with improved breathability and warmth, while synthetic materials often have a shorter lifespan and show signs of wear much sooner. 

For everyday staples, like t-shirts and trousers, cotton and linen are great natural choices. These fabrics are soft, but durable, and aren’t prone to pilling. Cotton is also resilient to frequent washes, holding its shape and softness even with regular wear. The benefits of cotton also cross over into jeans! Good quality denim should be made from cotton, which keeps your jeans comfy. Try to avoid any denim which feels thin and flimsy, or heavy and stiff, as these will show wear and fade much faster.

If you’re adding new items to your winter wardrobe, then begin with 100% wool. This fabric will keep you toasty on even the coldest of days, while being so durable that it can be stretched and still bounce back! Wool is also kinder to skin as the fibres are naturally breathable.

Are natural materials a priority for you? Let us know what you’ll be putting in your Hammonds wardrobe over on Instagram!