A guide to choosing better materials for your wardrobe, and your planet
Most of us don’t think twice about what our clothes are made of. We look for the style, the fit, the price tag. But what about the fabric? The truth is, what goes into our clothing has a much bigger impact than we realize, not just on our skin, but on the environment too.
That’s where eco-friendly fabrics come in. This isn’t just a trendy term brands use to sound eco-conscious; there’s more to it. Understanding what makes a fabric sustainable can help you shop smarter, waste less, and feel better in what you wear.
In this guide, we’ll break down what to look for in eco-conscious materials, why it all matters, and how brands like Reistor are leading the charge with thoughtful, planet-friendly clothing.
Why fabric matters in the first place
When it comes to sustainability, fabric is a big deal. Around 60% of all clothing is made from synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, or acrylic; that’s basically plastic. These materials don’t biodegrade, release microplastics when washed, and are derived from fossil fuels.
On the flip side, natural and biodegradable fabrics like hemp, organic cotton, and Tencel™ have a far smaller environmental footprint. They’re made from plants, break down naturally, and are often gentler on your skin too. Plus, they just feel better; light, breathable, and perfect for real-life wear.
Meet the heroes of sustainable fabric
So what exactly should you be looking for when you want to shop more consciously? Here are a few of the most eco-friendly fabrics out there, and why they’re worth knowing about.
1. Hemp: The low-key powerhouse
Hemp might be the most underrated plant in the fashion world. It grows fast (without pesticides), uses very little water, and improves the soil it’s planted in. It’s one of the most sustainable crops on the planet.
In clothing, hemp creates a fabric that’s soft yet durable, breathable, and naturally resistant to bacteria. It gets better with every wash and is great for warm weather.
Reistor uses hemp in many of its signature pieces, like summer floral dresses, women’s tops, mini dresses, crop tops, jumpsuits, and rompers. The fabric drapes beautifully, wears well in heat, and has that perfect lived-in texture. It’s a staple in their mission to reduce the fashion industry’s footprint, one garment at a time.
2 . Organic Cotton: Better cotton, no compromises
Regular cotton might be natural, but it’s not the best choice for sustainable clothing. Conventional cotton farming is water-intensive and typically relies on heavy pesticides that harm both the earth and the farmers.
Organic cotton is the better version: grown without harmful chemicals, using far less water, and often farmed in more ethical systems. The result? A soft, breathable fabric that’s kind to your skin and the planet.
Reistor’s organic cotton pieces are clean, cozy, and crafted for everyday wear. Whether you’re lounging at home or heading out for errands, their organic cotton separates give you that guilt-free comfort we all crave.
3 . Tencel™: The future of fabric
If you haven’t heard of Tencel™, it’s time to get familiar. Made from wood pulp (usually eucalyptus or beech trees), Tencel™ is created through a closed-loop process that reuses almost all the water and solvents involved. That means way less waste and pollution.
The fabric itself is silky soft, moisture-wicking, breathable, and biodegradable. It’s a favorite for everything from sleepwear to polished work outfits.
Reistor often uses Tencel™ and Bemberg™ (another biodegradable yarn derived from cotton linter) in their satin and crepe collections. These fabrics add a touch of luxury to eco-conscious fashion: a proof that sustainable doesn’t have to mean boring basics.
What to watch out for when shopping
Okay, so we’ve talked about the good stuff. But what should you avoid?
- Polyester, nylon, acrylic : These are synthetic fibers that take hundreds of years to break Even recycled polyester helps reduce waste, but still sheds microplastics.
- Blended fabrics : If it’s a mix of natural and synthetic, it’s usually not biodegradable and harder to recycle.
- Vague greenwashing terms : Words like “eco,” “natural,” or “green” don’t mean much without real certifications or transparency. Look for specific fabric names and details of the making process.
How Reistor makes it easier
Shopping sustainably can feel overwhelming; that’s why brands like Reistor matter. They’ve done the research, made the ethical fashion choices, and packaged it all in stylish, wearable pieces that feel like a natural extension of your lifestyle.
Reistor designs with intention. Every collection uses earth-friendly fabrics, toxin-free dyes, and minimal waste processes. They don’t chase trends, they focus on timeless styles that can be reworn, restyled, and reloved over the years.
What makes them different from other ethical fashion brands is that Reistor’s efforts don’t just stop at the choice of fabric. Reistor also works with small, ethical manufacturing units, ensures fair wages for its artisans, and keeps packaging low-waste. It’s sustainability in the true sense.
How to incorporate eco-fabrics into your wardrobe Not sure where to start? Here are a few tips:
- Start with the basics: Going forward, focus on investing in everyday basics like tees, tanks, comfy pants for organic cotton or hemp versions.
- Shop less, but better: Choose quality over quantity. One well-made hemp clothing for women can outlast five synthetic ones.
- Style with intention: Eco-friendly doesn’t mean bland. Reistor’s neutral tones, subtle prints, and versatile silhouettes make them easy to style across seasons and settings.
- Care for your clothes: Washing on cold, line-drying, and avoiding harsh detergents helps extend the life of your garments and keeps microfibers out of our waterways.
Final thoughts: A better way to dress
Eco-friendly fashion isn’t just a trend, it’s a return to what fashion should have always been. Thoughtful. Comfortable. Beautiful. And rooted in respect for the people who make it and the planet we all share.
Understanding your fabrics is one of the easiest and most powerful steps toward building a wardrobe that reflects your values. With brands like Reistor leading the way, you don’t have to sacrifice your aesthetic to do it.
So next time you check a clothing tag, take a second look. Because what you wear matters, and the right fabric can change everything.
