Fabrics

Natural vs Synthetic Fabrics

Natural vs Synthetic Fabrics

When browsing for sustainable fashion, do you spend time checking the fabric content? 

Opting for brands that embrace natural fabrics is the best way to ensure exceptional quality and achieve a premium look. However, some brands hide their fabric blends in the small print — leaving you wondering why your order is low quality. 

Today, we’re focusing on natural vs synthetic fabrics to help you build your wardrobe on quality, not faux fabrics. Get your notebook out and keep reading to learn more.

Why Choose Natural Fabrics?

Before we dive into the key differences between natural and synthetic fabrics, we’ll quickly discuss why you should opt for these au-natural alternatives. 

Natural fabrics often offer more comfort than their synthetic counterparts. You can feel the difference between natural cotton and polycotton, and you can see it, too. If you want to elevate your wardrobe in every way, natural textiles should be your go-to. 

And we should note we’re not against synthetic fabrics! These artificial materials do offer sensual comfort and gorgeous styles and we use them from time to time. However, we focus on ethical fashion and thus aim to use natural picks and sustainable fabrics as often as possible. Small changes do make a difference. Trust us.

Examples of natural fabrics include wool, silk, cotton, and linen. Popular synthetic fabrics include polyester, acrylic, and nylon. Regenerated fabrics also exist, and these sit between both categories.

Key Differences Between Natural & Synthetic Fabrics

So, what do you need to know if you’re avoiding synthetic fabric clothes and trying to embrace slow fashion staples? See the top contrasts below. 

  • Sources — As their names suggest, natural fabrics come from natural fibres, whereas synthetic materials come from chemical sources (i.e. petrochemicals).
  • Feel — Wearing natural fabrics is often more comfortable than synthetics, as they’re breathable and can absorb moisture. On the other hand, synthetics don’t allow air to pass through, leading to excess sweat and heat.
  • Longevity/Durability — Sometimes synthetic fabrics are more durable than natural options, as their chemical properties make them more resistant to wear and tear. Of course, this can differ, as 100% natural cotton denim is also extremely strong. 
  • Price — While costs aren’t a physical component, they’re a great way to tell the difference. Natural fabrics tend to cost more as they require more resources and labour. Synthetics typically are quicker to produce. This can differ, though. 

Finally, one of the most important differences between the two types of fabrics is their overall environmental impact. Overall, natural materials are more sustainable than synthetics, as they’re made from biodegradable materials. Synthetic fabrics are crafted from non-renewable material which may never break down. 

Leocé’s Fabric Choices

Fabrics are at the centre of our craft, and each textile we use is carefully hand selected to ensure an aesthetic and comfortable garment. From silk chiffons to Irish linens, our team curates fabrics that stand the test of time while empowering the wearer. Never doubt the power of refined fabrics! 

Our focus is always on ethical fashion. Therefore we try to source as many natural options as possible. However, after our rebranding process, we decided to also include batches of luxury synthetic fabrics in our collections. This gives us more freedom while designing, and it ensures our customers can access even more timeless styles. 

No matter the fabric type, you can always trust that the team has picked the highest quality option to suit the garment’s style. You won’t find any low-quality materials here — regardless of their nature. 

Intrigued? Explore our collections online to see the luxe fabrics in our latest lineups. Or, find out more about our ethos and focus

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