From Piñatex to Tencel to organic cotton, here are the best fabrics to choose from in this quick sustainable shopping guide.
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There’s something to be said for carefully choosing the fabrics we wear. Linen is a breath of fresh air during muggy summers. Wool knits keep you snug and warm against winter chills. Yet, with the growing awareness about fashion’s impact, there’s another reason to choose your fabrics wisely outside of changing seasons- sustainability.
The fashion industry has increased consumption by 400% since the start of the century and is responsible for an estimated 10% of global fashion emissions. A large part of that impact is due to plastic based fabrics such as polyester. This fabric accounts for an estimated 70% of clothes on the market today. Versatile, durable, and cheap to make, polyester has a hidden cost on our health and the environment. It’s a type of plastic sourced from petroleum and emits hundreds of billions of CO2 yearly. Sometimes, carcinogens are used during the production process. And it’s durability is a problem that can result in some polyester garments taking as long as 200 years to decompose.
Shopping for sustainable fabrics is one way to put a dent in the negative impact of the fashion industry. Choosing our materials wisely, not only reduces environmental harm but also promotes ethical practices in fashion. This article explores the best fabrics to buy in 2025, encouraging mindful choices in your wardrobe.
Organic Cotton: The Classic Choice Reimagined
Pact Fit & Flare Modern Halter Dress is made from 95% organic cotton. GOTS and Fair Trade certified.
$68 (Sale $13)
Much like organic food, organic cotton is farmed without fertilizers, pesticides, and other potentially harmful chemicals. These farming practices are the reasons why organic cotton can reduce water use by as much as 91% leading to healthier ecosystems when compared to conventional cotton.
When shopping for the best fabrics, look for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and OEKO-TEX. These labels ensure the fabric meets strict organic standards and is free from harmful substances. Brands like Pact, Organic Basics, Kotn, and Everlane have successfully integrated organic cotton into their clothing lines. By choosing these brands, you support ethical practices while enjoying stylish and comfortable pieces.
Tencel Lyocell: Sustainable Luxury
Quince Tencel Rib Knit Maxi Slip Dress is made from 91% TENCEL™ Lyocell sourced from sustainably grown wood. It’s made in factories that are members of the BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative). $50
Tencel lyocell, made from wood, is produced using a closed-loop process, which recycles water and solvents. Since it’s sourced from a renewable material and its production processes minimized water and chemical use, it’s considered eco-friendly.
Okay I’ll Bite, What Is Tencel? Here’s Everything You Need To Know
Known for its softness and breathability, Tencel has a luxurious drape that makes it ideal for flowing dresses or silky duvets. Its moisture-wicking properties also make it ideal for various climates, creating comfortable clothing that doesn’t compromise on style.
Hemp: A Durable and Eco-Friendly Option
Jungmaven Carmen Mesh Cropped Tee is made for 30% hemp and 70% organic cotton. $20
Hemp is one of the fastest-growing plants, needing minimal water and no harmful pesticides for a rich harvest. It enriches the soil and requires less time to grow compared to other crops, making it a sustainable choice.
Hemp fabric is incredibly strong, durable, and develops a unique texture over time. Its slightly rough finish adds character, and with proper care— washing in cold water and air drying— it can last for years. Brands like Jungmaven and Hemp Tailor are leading the way in hemp fashion. The increasing consumer interest in hemp products signals a shift toward more sustainable choices.
Recycled Materials: Giving Fabrics a Second Life
Reformation Tazz Maxi Denim Skirt is made from 80% Regeneratively Grown Cotton and 20% Recycled Cotton. $188 (Sale $57)
Recycled fabrics include options like recycled polyester, nylon, and cotton, which are often sourced from post-consumer waste. This circular model of reusing resources helps reduce landfill waste while conserving resources. By some estimates, using recycled materials has the potential to cut carbon emissions by as much as 70%. Each time we choose recycled textiles, we can contribute to reducing CO2 emissions and the need for virgin plastic-based materials.
Look for terms like “recycled”, “regenerated” or “upcycled” on clothing labels. Brands committed to sustainability often highlight their use of recycled materials in product descriptions.
Innovative Sustainable Fabrics: Exploring the Future
Oliver & Co. Premium Note Wallet is a 10 pocket wallet made from OEKO-TEX certified apple leather. $149
Piñatex (Pineapple Leaf Fiber)
Piñatex is a groundbreaking fabric made from pineapple leaves. Its production utilizes agricultural waste, offering a sustainable alternative to leather. The result is a versatile, durable, and eco-friendly fabric.
Mushroom Leather (Mycelium)
Mushroom leather, derived from mycelium (the rootlike structures of mushrooms) showcases innovation in sustainable fashion. This material biodegrades naturally, providing an alternative to traditional leather without harming the planet.
Other Emerging Sustainable Materials
Other promising options include leathers sourced from a range of other fruits including grapes, apples, and oranges and seaweed fabrics. These materials represent exciting possibilities for the future of eco-conscious clothing.
In 2025, sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, Tencel, hemp, and others will help push the industry forward to more fashionably sustainable landscape. By choosing these materials, we as consumers are voting with our dollars and showing brands what our priorities are. The more we embrace conscious consumerism and make informed choices that benefit both the planet and your wardrobe, the more brands will listen and use the best fabrics with the smallest environmental impact.
