With global warming leading to climate changes that are affecting the way we live, the fashion industry has had to adapt in a unique way. Rising temperatures across the globe have pushed retailers to find materials and textiles that are more breathable and cooling and yet easy on both the skin and the environment. Many brands are touting warm weather styles and fabric that isn't normally used in mainstream daily wear clothing. According to Reuters, retailers such as Macy's and Columbia Sportswear are expanding their use of breathable fabrics in a bid to boost sales. This push has come because sales dipped as inflation-weary consumers prioritized essentials over apparel purchases as temperatures rose in at least three continents this year. Adapting to the evolving needs of the customer is a survival game in the retail industry and many brands are rising to the occasion. Here's all you need to know and how you can work these terms into your fashion lingo when you go bargain-hunting for the best summer buys this season.
Traditional cotton and polyester knits offer relief but apparel manufacturers and sellers are banking on lightweight materials and performance fabrics which offer greater relief than traditional cotton, polyester knits and even high-tech fibres. Many are turning to fabrics used in athletic clothing and activewear. Cellulose-based fibres including lyocell, modal, and cupro. Lycra's Coolmax is a polyester yarn that is designed to allow sweat to evaporate quickly.
Lyocell is a fabric made from wood pulp. It is long-lasting and durable and used primarily in summer-wear outfits, but is also commonly used in trench coats and 'activewear' because of its "breathable" quality. The fabric produced can even be mixed with other fibres to make clothes lighter and softer. Many brands focused on sustainable clothing use Lyocell as it is arguably the most eco-friendly fabric as it is sourced from organic and renewable sources. The brand Katrina Kaif wears in her post below combines Lyocell with Linen.
Modal is another form of viscose, a semi-synthetic fabric made from beech tree pulp. It is used primarily for clothing like t-shirts, kurtas and more. Another great material used in eco-friendly fashion as it is a bio fabric and more sustainable than cotton. Modal is usually used in sportswear, t-shirts and underwear, but retailers are now incorporating it more in street fashion and everyday wear.
Modal fabric is used in kurtis
Photo Credit: Bunai.com
Lycra as is commonly known is a highly elastic synthetic fibre and is used to make a variety of clothing like athleisure, gym wear, and even denim.
Lycra used in clothing like denim
Photo Credit: Lycra.com
Cupro is a regenerated cellulose fabric made from cotton waste. This fabric is used to make tank tops, innerwear, athleisure, blouses and intimate apparel.
Cupro fabric
Photo Credit: amourvert.com
Retailers have also begun to innovate to find other materials to achieve the desired cooling effect. Textile manufacturer Brrr embeds cooling minerals in the fabric. According to Brrr, the technology has three unique cooling effects that combine to immediately and continually reduce the temperature of the skin, keeping it cool and breathable. Many retailers have partnered with them to produce new product lines to appeal to the rapidly evolving needs of their customers.
Besides lightweight, breathable fabrics, looser fits, longer sleeves, and a lighter colour palette are ideal options on scorching summer days and a great way to pivot your wardrobe to adapt to rising temperatures.
CommentsAlso Read: Angelina Jolie Is All Set To Launch Her New Sustainable Fashion Venture - Atelier Jolie
