Synthetic materials in apparel: What are synthetics and what are they good for?

Here is a roundup of the three most common synthetic fibers you’ll encounter:

1. Rayon
   Of all synthetics, rayon should be the least controversial. In fact, some people don’t even consider it a true synthetic because it’s made from plant matter, but it goes through so many chemical processes, it’s often listed as artificial.
   When You Want Rayon: When you want the smoothness and drape of silk, but also want something that’s affordable, doesn’t hold odors easily, and wears cooler.
   When You Don’t Want Rayon: Rayon can be a bit high-maintenance. Like silk, it typically requires hand-washing or dry cleaning. And you generally can’t iron it. On the upside, it sheds wrinkles easily (just hang the garment up overnight or, if you must, steam it).
2. Polyester
   Nothing sounds worse than polyester clothing. Just the mere mention of it brings to mind all those sweaty and uncomfortable polyester suits during the 1970s (the ones in Saturday Night Fever? Yea, those were polyester).
   When You Want Polyester: Since the fiber is hydrophobic, it works great for outerwear and gym clothes. It’s water repellant and, depending the weave structure, can also be breathable.
   When You Want to Avoid Polyester: Polyester doesn’t always age that well, and depending on the fabric, it can make a garment look cheap.
3. Elastane
   The Atlantic has a great article this month by Amanda Mull, which talks about how jean manufacturers have been smuggling spandex into their clothes and marketing them as masculine to gender-sensitive men
   When You Want Elastane: When you want a bit of stretch to a garment.
   When You Want to Avoid Elastane: Elastane is only ever added to a garment when it needs to be stretchy. So the only time you’d want to avoid it is if you dislike stretchy garments.

Synthetics have their advantages and disadvantages. However, as sourcing and certification of natural materials in your clothes are advancing fast, many natural alternatives can be found - especially sustainable fashion brands will emphasise these materials.

Submitted November 05, 2021 at 10:37PM by Hanna889 https://ift.tt/3CPysVq