What are sustainable fabrics?

Sustainable fashion, also known as eco-fashion, is a movement that aims to improve ecological integrity and social justice within the fashion industry. It has been widely discussed over the years. To be able to call itself sustainable, a brand needs to adhere to various aspects of sustainability. For example, even if a fashion firm produces its clothes locally, reduces fabric waste, and compensates its employees honourably, their fabric choices may prevent them from being genuinely sustainable. That said, what are sustainable fabrics? 

Firstly, we need to understand where the material originates. Is it the result of depleting raw supplies, causing harm to farm and agricultural techniques, or from an animal? Furthermore, are the materials recycled or grown? Then, we need to recognise the processing method before the material is made into fabric. Some examples of sustainable fabric processing consist of knitting, weaving, and using non-toxic dyes. 

There is an abundance of sustainable and eco-friendly fabrics available in the market and of them, the following five are currently the most prevalent. 

• Organic Cotton 

Organic cotton is grown without the use of pesticides or chemicals, making it far more environmentally friendly than conventional cotton. Having a GOTS certification helps to verify its legitimacy. Ultimately, recycled cotton is a greater sustainable fabric option. 

Cotton is a breathable and comfortable fabric from which stylish summer wear can be designed. A simple yet elegant cotton top, such as JULIETTE C’s Kyra top, is a smart choice for summer. You can pair it with the cotton Boheme skirt for a free-spirited, chic Bohemian look or wear it over shorts for a fun day at the beach! 

• Organic Linen

Linen is known for its softness. It is also lightweight and strong, making the garments made from it last a long time. Every component of the plant can be used to generate linen fabric which causes minimal wastage. Similar to lyocell, linen is biodegradable too.  

JULIETTE C brings you casual chic shorts cut in linen and designed for style. The Gihane shorts is an essential for off-days – when you still want to be fashionable yet comfy.

• Recycled Fabrics 

Recycling fabric follows the same concept of buying second-hand clothes or incorporating hand-me-downs from friends and family. Through the utilisation of sustainable and recycled fabrics, waste is avoided by not using new materials or resources. 

• Lyocell 

Lyocell is a lightweight fabric constructed from wood pulp that is incredibly absorbent, antibacterial, odourless, and moisture resistant. The water and chemicals used during production are recyclable, which significantly reduces the number of new chemicals and water needed. Moreover, lyocell is biodegradable making it a sustainable fabric. 

• Viscose 

We can’t deny that viscose is a semi-synthetic fibre as it comes from a natural source but it requires extensive chemical processing. However, it is a biodegradable fibre that is grown organically from trees without using pesticides. Therefore, it does not damage nature and wildlife. Additionally, the amount of waste generated in producing viscose fibres is reduced and the water treatment plants handle the processing water before releasing it into the environment. 

The viscose fabrics used by JULIETTE C are OEKO-TEX® certified. You can choose from feminine tops, elegant dresses, chic jumpsuits and flowing skirts all designed in this beautiful fabric. 

All in all, JULIETTE C uses 100% cotton, 100% viscose, a minimal percentage of silk, and even uses leftover fabrics to produce garments and accessories. We are proud to uphold sustainable and slow fashion, and will continue to do so.

At JULIETTE C, our effortlessly chic collection of stylish pieces using sustainable fabrics is elegant, conscious, flattering, and very pleasant to wear. You can get in touch if you have any questions or want to discuss anything fashion-related! 

You can also visit our website to discover our timeless French fashions for women.