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For decades, nylon has been synonymous with exceptional strength, durability, and resilience. From mountaineering gear to industrial applications, its tough nature has made it an indispensable synthetic fiber. However, its traditional smooth, often slick handfeel and perceived lack of breathability have kept it distinct from the comfort and aesthetic appeal of natural fibers. An evolution is underway, as textile innovators are developing high-performance nylon fabrics and yarns that not only retain nylon's legendary strength but also beautifully replicate the refined appearance and luxurious texture of natural fibers, while offering advanced comfort and functionality.
Look beyond durability
The push for "natural-feel" nylon is due to evolving consumer demands and industry imperatives.
• Versatile performance: Consumers increasingly seek garments that seamlessly transition from high-performance activities to everyday wear, requiring fabrics that are both functional and comfortable.
• Aesthetic appeal: There's a growing desire for the sophisticated look and soft touch of natural fibers, even in technical apparel.
• Sustainability imperative: As environmental consciousness rises, the industry is pressured to reduce its reliance on virgin fossil fuels and mitigate issues like microplastic pollution, leading to innovations in recycled and bio-based nylon.
• Blending strengths: The aim is to combine nylon's inherent advantages (strength, elasticity, quick-drying) with the desirable qualities of natural fibers (softness, breathability, drape).
Engineering a softer touch
Achieving a natural aesthetic and beet comfort in nylon involves sophisticated advancements in polymer science, yarn engineering, and fabric finishing.
Advanced fiber cross-sections and denier: Traditional nylon fibers are often round and uniform. Innovations now involve creating fibers with modified cross-sections (e.g., flat, trilobal) and ultra-fine deniers (microfibers). These irregular shapes and finer filaments contribute to a softer, more textured handfeel, improved drape, and enhanced light diffusion, mimicking the subtle variations found in natural fibers.
Texturizing and spinning techniques: New texturizing processes introduce crimp and bulk into nylon yarns, giving them a softer, more voluminous feel akin to spun natural yarns. Advanced spinning methods allow for greater control over yarn structure, leading to more natural-looking and feeling fabrics.
Blending with natural or regenerated fibers: A common strategy is to create core-spun yarns where a strong nylon core is wrapped with softer natural fibers like cotton or wool. Alternatively, nylon is blended with regenerated cellulosic fibers (like Modal or Lyocell) to impart softness, breathability, and moisture management while retaining nylon's durability.
Surface modification and finishing: Specialized chemical and mechanical finishing treatments are applied to nylon fabrics to alter their surface properties. These can include brushing, sanding, or enzymatic treatments to break down surface fibers, resulting in a softer, peach-skin-like feel. Hydrophilic finishes can also be applied to improve moisture wicking.
Bio-based nylon development: A major area of innovation is the development of nylon polymers derived from renewable plant-based resources (e.g., corn, castor beans, sugarcane) rather than petrochemicals. This addresses the fossil fuel dependency and offers a more sustainable pathway.
Recycled nylon technologies: Pioneering companies are developing sophisticated processes to recycle post-consumer and post-industrial nylon waste (like fishing nets, carpets, and fabric scraps) back into high-quality nylon yarns. This circular approach significantly reduces the environmental footprint.
Hurdles in production
There are several issues while transforming nylon's traditional characteristics, while maintaining its core strength. One primary barrier to achieving a more natural aesthetic in nylon has been its inherent slickness and handfeel—that smooth, often overtly synthetic feel. However, this is being overcome through the use of microfiber technology, advanced texturizing processes, and strategic blending with natural or regenerated fibers, all of which create softer, more tactile surfaces. Additionally, specialized finishes further enhance the fabric's "hand." Another significant challenge lies in nylon's conventional breathability and moisture management; it's typically less breathable than natural fibers and can feel clammy against the skin. Innovations in fiber cross-sections now create micro-channels that improve moisture wicking, and blending nylon with absorbent fibers like cotton, Modal, or Lyocell, along with applying hydrophilic finishes, significantly enhances both breathability and quick-drying properties.
Furthermore, nylon's tendency to generate static electricity, especially in dry environments, has been a persistent issue. This is being mitigated through the application of anti-static finishes and by blending nylon with other fiber types. Beyond performance, significant sustainability concerns surround virgin nylon production, as its energy-intensive, reliant on fossil fuels, and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and microplastic shedding. Yet, the rapid development of recycled nylon—such as Econyl, made from pre- and post-consumer waste—is proving to be a game-changer, drastically reducing the need for virgin resources and lowering its carbon footprint. The emergence of bio-based nylon offers a promising renewable alternative, and advancements in dyeing and finishing processes are further aiming to reduce water and chemical usage.
Finally, recycling blended fabrics poses a complex challenge due to the difficulty in separating nylon from other fibers. Nevertheless, companies like Aquafil are making strides, having launched a demonstration plant capable of chemically separating elastic fibers from nylon in blended fabrics, marking a significant step towards achieving full circularity for challenging textile waste streams like sportswear.
Commercial market success
The commercial market is already seeing significant success in bringing high-performance nylon with a natural look and feel to the mainstream, thanks to several innovative brands and technologies. Aquafil's Econyl Regenerated Nylon stands out as a leading example of commercially successful recycled nylon. Crafted from waste materials such as discarded fishing nets, fabric scraps, and industrial plastics, Econyl delivers the same quality and performance as virgin nylon but with a remarkably reduced environmental footprint.
Its efficacy is evident in its adoption by high-end fashion brands like Prada, Gucci, and Burberry, as well as numerous sportswear and swimwear brands, showcasing that recycled nylon can indeed meet rigorous demands for both aesthetics and performance. For instance, swimwear made with Econyl maintains its shape, color, and durability while offering a soft feel against the skin. Notably, Econyl production slashes the global warming impact of nylon by up to 80 per cent compared to material derived from virgin oil. Further expanding its reach, Aquafil launched a demonstration plant in March 2025 dedicated to separating elastic fibers from nylon, aiming to broaden the types of waste that can be recycled into Econyl.
Invista, a major nylon producer, is also making waves with its sustainable and natural-feel options, notably with Cordura re/cor and Cordura Naturalle. The Cordura re/cor collection features fabrics made from 100 per cent recycled nylon 6 (RN6) and recycled nylon 6,6 (RN66) sourced from post-industrial waste. These fabrics retain the legendary durability of Cordura while offering a more responsible choice, and their underlying yarn technologies contribute to finer, more adaptable fabrics beyond just rugged applications. Directly addressing the handfeel aspect, Cordura Naturalle is specifically engineered to provide the lightweight versatility and durability of nylon with a soft, natural touch, effectively mimicking cotton or wool.
Meanwhile, Italian yarn manufacturer Fulgar is pushing the boundaries of polyamide innovation with Nanofiber by Fulgar and Q-Geo. Nanofiber by Fulgar is an ultra-light polyamide 6.6 composed of exceptionally fine filaments (as thin as 7 microns), allowing for incredibly soft and silky fabrics that boast high opacity and lightness while maintaining abrasion resistance—directly targeting the luxurious handfeel of natural silk. Finally, Q-Geo is a bio-based polyamide yarn derived from renewable sources, offering 50 per cent better moisture management than conventional polyamide and exceptional abrasion resistance, thus combining sustainability with enhanced comfort.
Table: Comparative properties of textile fibers (nylon focus)
|
Property |
Conventional Nylon (e.g., Nylon 6, Nylon 6,6) |
Advanced High-Performance Nylon (e.g., Econyl, Nanofiber by Fulgar, Cordura Naturalle) |
Natural Fibers (e.g., Cotton, Wool, Silk) |
|
Handfeel |
Smooth, often slick, synthetic |
Soft, silky, cotton-like, luxurious, less "plastic-y" |
Soft, breathable, varied (e.g., crisp cotton, soft wool, smooth silk) |
|
Drape |
Moderate, can be stiff or somewhat fluid depending on weave |
Improved, more fluid, elegant, natural-like |
Excellent, conforms to body, graceful |
|
Breathability |
Low, can trap heat |
Significantly improved, enhanced moisture wicking, better airflow |
High (cotton, linen), moderate (wool), excellent (silk) |
|
Moisture Absorption |
Very low (hydrophobic), wicks moisture but doesn't absorb |
Enhanced wicking, quicker drying due to specialized structures and finishes |
High (cotton, wool), moderate (silk), absorbs moisture into fiber structure |
|
Wet Strength |
Excellent, retains strength when wet |
Excellent, comparable to conventional nylon |
Moderate (cotton), Low (silk) |
|
Wrinkle Resistance |
Excellent |
Excellent |
Variable (cotton wrinkles easily, wool resists wrinkles, silk drapes) |
|
Durability / Abrasion Resistance |
Excellent, very strong, high abrasion resistance |
Excellent, comparable to or enhanced over conventional nylon |
Variable (cotton durable, silk delicate, wool resilient) |
|
Appearance |
Uniform, often lustrous or semi-dull |
Varied textures, matte finish, visually similar to natural fibers, high opacity |
Natural variations, unique luster |
|
Pilling Resistance |
Good (can pill with wear, especially lower quality) |
Improved, depends on fiber structure and finishing |
Variable (wool can pill, cotton less so) |
|
Environmental Impact (Production) |
High (petroleum-based, energy-intensive, microplastic shedding) |
Significantly Reduced (recycled content, bio-based options, lower carbon footprint, still microplastics) |
Variable (water/land use, pesticides for cotton; sheep impact for wool) |
|
Cost |
Moderate to affordable |
Moderate to High (due to advanced technologies and sustainable sourcing) |
Variable (cotton affordable, silk/cashmere expensive) |
|
UV Resistance |
Good |
Excellent, often with added UV protection |
Variable (silk poor, cotton fair) |
|
Care Instructions |
Easy care, machine washable, quick-drying |
Easy care, machine washable, quick-drying (often similar to conventional nylon) |
Variable (cotton easy, wool/silk delicate, often requiring special care) |
What the future holds
Nylon is expected to see continuous innovation, driven by the dual goals of performance and sustainability. Further advancements in bio-based polymers, chemical recycling of complex textile blends, and sophisticated fiber engineering will lead to nylon fabrics that are not only incredibly strong and functional but also indistinguishable from natural fibers in comfort and aesthetics. As the textile industry moves towards a more circular and responsible model, advanced nylon will remain a cornerstone, offering versatile solutions for a wide range of applications from high-fashion to extreme outdoor gear.
Gucci has appointed South Korean singer Lee Know as the brand’s new global ambassador. This move strengthens the brand’s relationship with the K-pop sensation and Stray Kids member.
Know has frequently sported Gucci attire at official engagements and in various editorial features. His attendance at the Florentine brand’s Cruise 2025 fashion show in London last year further cemented his ties with the Kering-owned company. In his new capacity, he will play a more central role in Gucci's upcoming events and initiatives.
Since his debut with Stray Kids in 2018, Know has emerged as a versatile and multifaceted artist, making his mark not only as a performer but also as a talented songwriter and composer. Formed by JYP Entertainment through a 2017 reality show, Stray Kids has rapidly ascended to become one of the biggest acts in the music industry. The group comprises seven other members: IN, Bang Chan, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, and Seungmin. Following their debut EP release in January 2018, the band's trajectory has been consistently upward.
The group's musical success has been paralleled by increasing attention from the fashion world. Recently, IN was named an ambassador for both Bottega Veneta and Damiani. Similarly, Fendi has tapped Bang Chan, Versace has partnered with Hyunjin, and Louis Vuitton has brought on Felix for similar brand ambassador roles, highlighting the strong influence of Stray Kids members in high fashion.
WHP Global has announced a new international licensing agreement with the Batra Group for the Vera Wang brand. This partnership will see Batra Group launch a contemporary, ready-to-wear women's collection for Vera Wang across the UK and Europe, with a men's line to follow.
This agreement marks a significant step for WHP Global, as it's the first major licensing deal since their acquisition of Vera Wang's intellectual property earlier this year.
For the Batra Group, the addition of Vera Wang aligns with their strategy to expand their luxury division. Based in London, this division will oversee the development, production, and distribution of the new ready-to-wear collections. The Batra Group plans to introduce these lines through premium retail segments, specialty boutiques, and dedicated Vera Wang flagship locations.
The Batra Group boasts extensive experience in licensing, design, sourcing, and distribution, with operations spanning Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Their diverse brand portfolio already includes well-known names like Reebok, Fila, Juicy Couture, Russell Athletic, and Hunter Boots.
WHP Global continues to grow its fashion holdings, having partnered with Guess to acquire Rag & Bone last year. Their portfolio also includes a majority interest in G-Star Raw, alongside brands such as Joe's Jeans, Express, Bonobos, and Anne Klein.
Organized by the Shanghai International Exhibiiton Management Co, from July 16-18, 2025 at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre, the Shanghai Bridal Fashion Showroom 2025 promises an unparalleled celebration of bridal innovation, featuring over 200 exhibiting brands from 14 countries and regions and showcasing more than 2,000 original new products.
This year's exhibition prominently highlights the burgeoning talent of Chinese bridal designers, with leading brands such as Wangfeng Bridal, Lafine, St.White, and Vio Wan showcasing their unique blend of cultural heritage and contemporary aesthetics.
The event also serves as a global convergence of bridal excellence, presenting one of China’s most comprehensive showcases of international design. A major highlight is the highly anticipated China debut of Ukrainian brand Lietta. The Spanish Pronovias Group will present its full luxury portfolio, including Pronovias, Vera Wang for Pronovias, and Nicole Milano. The global roster features design luminaries like WONA (Ukraine), Tralinh (Vietnam), Natalia Romanova (Russia), Eva Lendel (America), Casablanca Bridal (America), Yolancris (Spain), and Ricca Sposa (Italy), etc. This diverse lineup creates a cross-border symphony of design, from timeless elegance to avant-garde expression, setting new benchmarks for global fashion dialogue in China.
The 2025 showroom keenly observes current consumer trends, recognizing that today's bridal consumers are increasingly rational and pragmatic, prioritizing ‘value-for-money.’ The exhibition addresses this demand with a diverse range of brands and product tiers. Local designers like DaoXu, Muzi, and Perfect leverage their deep understanding of domestic needs, flexible supply chains, and cultural resonance to offer competitive pricing without compromising on design or craftsmanship.
Beyond wedding dresses, dedicated zones for makeup artistry and fashion accessories will be featured. Renowned makeup artists and accessory designers will showcase their expertise and collections on-site, offering brides a convenient, one-stop experience for beauty looks and accessory styling.
A major fast fashion brand, Mango is furthering its sustainability goals by becoming the first large brand to invest in The Post Fiber. This innovative startup is helping the fashion industry move toward a circular model by managing and recycling post-consumer textile waste to create new fibers for clothing.
The investment, made through Mango's accelerator program Mango StartUp Studio, positions the company as a leader in incorporating post-consumer recycled fibers into its collections.
Specifically, Mango has launched a limited-edition collection for its youth line, Mango Teen, featuring 10 products like t-shirts and sweatshirts. Most items are made from 80 per cent recycled material. A notable 15 per cent of this comes from The Post Fiber, meaning it's derived from clothing that has reached the end of its life, collected from textile containers, shredded, and transformed into new yarn. The remaining 65 per cent of recycled material is from post-industrial waste. The collection's garments also use Pigmentura, an innovative dyeing technique that significantly reduces water and energy consumption.
A collaboration of Hallotex, Textil Santanderina, Moda-Re, and Margasa, The Post Fiber offers a groundbreaking solution for post-consumer textile waste. They process recyclable garments into high-quality fiber for new yarns, fabrics, and garments, adhering to strict sustainability standards.
Biella Yarn has launched its new Fall/Winter 2026/2027 collection, celebrating its 25th anniversary by honoring classic yarns while embracing innovation and sustainability. Showcasing a forward-looking approach, the collection integrates smart technologies and digital possibilities with a strong commitment to environmental responsibility.
At the core of the collection is the Victoria Nm 2/30 and Nm 2/48, crafted from 100 per cent Merino Wool Extrafine. Renowned for its softness and versatility, Victoria continues to be a staple for sophisticated designs. Over the years, the core range expanded to include Brisbane Nm 2/60, a 100 per cent Merino Wool Super 120’s yarn. Both Victoria and Brisbane are available through Biella Yarn's stock service and are celebrated for their extensive color palettes.
Reflecting a desire for stability and authenticity, the new color palette for these foundational yarns features deep mid-tones and warm earth tones that emphasize timelessness over fleeting trends. Complementing these are icy, ethereal shades that evoke tranquility, along with contrasting hues like blackcurrant and golden yellows, all seamlessly integrated with classic neutrals.
The collection is further enriched with luxurious blends such as Pasco Nm 2/30 and coarse yarns like Ascot Nm 3000 and Ascot Nm 5000.
A notable addition is Sesel Nm 2/60, a unique blend of wool and a bio-based, biodegradable fiber derived from seaweed. This combination offers a smooth, cooling hand-feel that enhances the natural properties of Merino wool.
Emphasizing circularity, Karma is Südwestwolles Group’s initiative to maximize yarn utilization by transforming pre-consumer production waste into new yarns. This process reduces the need for virgin resources. Using worsted spinning, they developed Alisei Nm 2/30 and Nm 2/48 (80% Merino Wool Extrafine, 20 per cent recycled wool), a high-quality yarn combining performance with responsible resource use.
New technology Gammaspun has led to the development of Morwell Nm 2/30 and Nm 2/48 and Perth Nm 2/28 and Nm 2/48 yarns. These yarns form a new range within the flat knitting collection.
In line with previous seasons, Biella Yarn collaborated with MRC Knitwear Research Studio to explore the creative potential of its yarns, resulting in elegant eveningwear pieces that highlight the yarns' unique textures, drape, and refined finishes.
For decades, polyester has been the workhorse of the textile industry, valued for its durability, wrinkle resistance, and affordability. However, its synthetic feel and often poor breathability have left many longing for the comfort and aesthetics of natural fibers like cotton, wool, and silk. Today, a quiet revolution is underway in textile research and development, as companies push the boundaries of innovation to create high-performance polyester fabrics and yarns that stunningly replicate the refined appearance and luxurious texture of natural fibers, all while offering higher comfort and functionality.
The driving force bridging the gap
The demand for such hybrid materials is due to various factors. Most importantly its backed by consumer preference that is a growing desire for garments that offer both performance (moisture-wicking, quick-drying) and natural aesthetics (soft handfeel, elegant drape). Sustainability is another important driver as natural fibers are often perceived as ‘greener’ their cultivation can be resource-intensive. Innovations in recycled polyester and bio-based alternatives are offering more sustainable synthetic options that align with circular economy principles. Then there are performance demands. As the activewear and athleisure markets continue to boom, requiring fabrics that perform under strenuous conditions while still being comfortable for everyday wear.
A multipronged development scenario
Achieving the elusive ‘natural feel’ in polyester involves a combination of advanced techniques across yarn manufacturing, fabric construction, and finishing processes. The developments include:
Engineered yarn structures: This includes the core-spun yarns a technique where wrapping natural fibers (like cotton or wool) around a synthetic core (polyester, spandex, nylon). The inner core provides strength, elasticity, and durability, while the outer sheath imparts the desired soft, breathable, and natural feel. This is a widely adopted method to combine the best of both worlds.
Then there is the modified cross-sections and denier. Traditional polyester often has a smooth, uniform surface. Researchers are now developing yarns with irregular cross-sections (e.g., four-lobed, flat) and varying thicknesses, which create pleasing irregularities in appearance and a denser texture, mimicking the natural variations found in natural fibers. Teijin Frontier, for instance, recently announced a new high-performance polyester fabric produced from such a unique yarn.
And microfiber polyester which involves creating ultra-thin polyester fibers that leads to fabrics with exceptional softness and a luxurious, often silky, handfeel.
Advanced spinning techniques: Better spinning methods are producing finer and more uniform polyester yarns, directly contributing to improved fabric quality and a softer touch.
Dyeing and finishing technologies: Special dyeing and finishing technologies, along with post-processing techniques, are crucial for enhancing the tactile experience and visual appeal of polyester. These can influence drape, softness, and even add features like "cool touch" or anti-stickiness.
Fiber blending: Polyester is increasingly blended with natural fibers (cotton, wool, linen) or regenerated cellulose fibers (Tencel, Rayon, Viscose) to create hybrid fabrics. These blends leverage the strengths of each component, improving characteristics such as texture, strength, breathability, and ease of maintenance. For example, blending organic cotton with recycled polyester produces eco-friendly yarns that maintain quality and durability.
Functional additions: Beyond aesthetics and comfort, new polyester yarns are being engineered with added functionalities like anti-static, anti-microbial, and UV-resistant properties, expanding their application range.
Challenges and their overcoming
Despite the progress, replicating natural fiber characteristics in polyester presents several challenges:
Handfeel and drape: Polyester's inherent slickness and tendency to feel less breathable compared to natural fibers have been major hurdles. Now, this is being addressed through micro-denier yarns, modified fiber cross-sections, and advanced finishing treatments that create a softer, more textured surface and improve moisture management. Core-spun technologies also directly address this by allowing natural fibers to form the outer layer.
Breathability and moisture management: Polyester's low moisture absorption can lead to a clammy feel in warmer conditions. This is being dealt with innovations like specialized wicking treatments and engineered fiber structures that transport sweat to the fabric's outer surface and spread it over a larger area for swift evaporation are significantly enhancing breathability and quick-drying properties. "Cool touch" functionalities are also being integrated.
Aesthetic irregularities: The uniformity of synthetic fibers can lack the subtle variations and character of natural fibers. This is being overcome by introducing random thicknesses and four-lobed flat cross-sections in the yarn that creates visual and tactile irregularities, closely mirroring the natural variations seen in cotton or linen.
Sustainability of virgin polyester: Traditional polyester production relies on petroleum-based chemicals, raising environmental concerns. Now a major thrust is on the development and scaling of recycled polyester, primarily from post-consumer PET bottles. Companies are investing in advanced recycling technologies to produce high-quality recycled polyester that performs comparably to virgin material. Bio-based alternatives, derived from renewable biological resources like corn starch or sugarcane (e.g., PLA), are also emerging as potential future solutions, offering biodegradability.
Dyeing and chemical inertness: While polyester dyes well, achieving specific natural color depths and avoiding harsh chemicals can be challenging. New improved dyeing processes ensure vibrant and long-lasting colors, while advancements in sustainable manufacturing aim to reduce the reliance on harmful chemical auxiliaries. Dope-dyeing (pre-coloring fibers) also eliminates the need for downstream wet dyeing, saving water, chemicals, and energy.
Mainstream commercial successes
Several companies and technologies are already making inroads in the commercial mainstream, bringing high-performance polyester with a natural look and feel to consumers:
• Reliance Industries Ltd. (R|Elan): R|Elan is a prominent example of a company focused on creating advanced fabrics with aesthetic, eco-friendly, and high-performance attributes.
• R|Elan FreeFlow: This fabric is constructed with specially engineered fibers that provide enhanced touch and handfeel, along with an enhanced free-flowing drape, mimicking the fluidity of natural fabrics.
• R|Elan SuperFeel: Designed for a premium handfeel and superior drape, often achieved through thinner diameter fibers.
• Eco-Friendly Initiatives: R|Elan heavily emphasizes "green" sourcing (100 per cent recycled post-consumer PET bottles), sustainable manufacturing processes (recycled water, zero waste concept), and pre-colored fibers to reduce environmental impact.
• Teijin Frontier Co., Ltd.: Recently, Teijin Frontier announced a breakthrough with their new high-performance polyester fabric. This fabric combines the elegant appearance and texture of natural fibers (achieved through unique four-lobed, flat cross-section yarn with random thicknesses) with advanced functionalities like cool touch, anti-stickiness, quick-dry, opacity, and UV protection.
• Sustainability: Crucially, this newly developed fabric is made with 100% recycled polyester, aligning with the growing demand for circularity in textiles. Teijin Frontier plans commercial availability for Spring/Summer 2026.
• Core-spun yarn manufacturers: Companies like Sitaram Spinners are leveraging core-spun yarn technology to produce fabrics that offer superior elasticity, strength, durability, and moisture management, while the outer natural fiber component provides comfort and a soft feel. This technology is widely used in activewear, denim, and even industrial wear.
• Recycled polyester adoption by brands: Numerous global apparel brands are now incorporating recycled PET (rPET) into their product lines, often blending it to achieve desired aesthetics and performance. While specific data on direct "natural feel" replication within these broader rPET adoptions is harder to isolate, the general trend indicates a strong shift towards sustainable polyester that consumers are accepting.
Rise of recycled polyester in activewear
The activewear market has been a major driver for high-performance polyester. Initially, the focus was solely on moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties, often at the expense of natural feel. However, with advancements in recycled polyester and spinning technologies, brands are increasingly able to offer activewear that not only performs but also feels softer and more comfortable against the skin, blurring the lines between performance and lifestyle apparel.
The global textile fiber market size, estimated at $48.70 billion in 2024, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.5 per cent from 2025 to 2030. The synthetic fiber segment held the largest revenue share of 52.0 per cent in 2024 mainly due to its superior properties and cost-effectiveness. However, the rise of eco-friendly and biodegradable fibers, such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, and bio-based synthetic fibers, reflects the industry's commitment to reducing environmental impact. The demand for recycled polyester is a significant trend shaping the market, driven by increasing environmental awareness and corporate sustainability initiatives.
Table 1: Polyester innovations for natural fiber replication
|
Innovation Category |
Mechanism |
Benefits (natural fiber mimicry) |
Commercial impact |
|
Engineered Yarn |
Core-spun, Micro-denier, Modified Cross-sections (e.g., four-lobed) |
Softer handfeel, improved drape, visual irregularities, enhanced breathability |
Widely adopted in activewear, fashion; enables hybrid functionality |
|
Advanced Finishing |
Special treatments, post-processing techniques |
"Cool touch," anti-stickiness, enhanced drape, luxurious feel |
Improves direct skin contact comfort and aesthetic appeal |
|
Fiber Blending |
Polyester with cotton, wool, linen, Tencel, etc. |
Combines strengths of both fibers (e.g., cotton's comfort + polyester's durability) |
Popular for versatile apparel, offering balanced properties |
|
Recycled Polyester |
Utilizing post-consumer PET bottles for yarn production |
Environmentally conscious alternative without sacrificing performance |
Growing market share, adopted by major brands, aligns with circular economy |
Comparative properties of conventional polyester, advanced polyester, and natural fibers
To better understand the advancements, the following table provides a comparative overview of key properties. It's important to note that specific values can vary widely depending on the exact fiber type, processing, and end application. This table offers a general comparison to illustrate the progress being made.
Table: Comparative properties of textile fibers
|
Property |
Conventional Polyester (e.g., PET) |
Advanced High-Performance Polyester (e.g., Teijin Frontier's new fabric, R|Elan) |
Natural Fibers (e.g., Cotton, Wool, Silk) |
|
Handfeel |
Smooth, often slick, "plastic-y" |
Soft, luxurious, textured, natural-like (e.g., "cotton-like," "silky") |
Soft, breathable, varied (e.g., crisp cotton, soft wool, smooth silk) |
|
Drape |
Stiff, less fluid, holds creases |
Fluid, elegant, natural-like (e.g., free-flowing) |
Excellent, conforms to body, graceful |
|
Breathability |
Low, can feel clammy in warm conditions |
Significantly improved, enhanced moisture wicking, quick-drying, "cool touch" |
High (cotton, linen), moderate (wool), excellent (silk) |
|
Moisture Absorption |
Very low (hydrophobic), wicks but doesn't absorb |
Enhanced wicking, quicker drying via special cross-sections and treatments |
High (cotton, wool), moderate (silk), absorbs into fiber structure |
|
Wrinkle Resistance |
Excellent |
Excellent |
Variable (cotton wrinkles easily, wool resists, silk drapes) |
|
Durability / Abrasion Resistance |
Excellent, very strong |
Excellent, comparable to conventional polyester |
Variable (cotton durable, silk delicate, wool resilient) |
|
Appearance |
Often uniform, shiny (can be dull) |
Irregularities in thickness, matte, resembles natural fibers |
Natural variations, unique luster |
|
Pilling Resistance |
Moderate to high (can pill over time) |
Improved, depending on fiber structure and finishing |
Variable (wool can pill, cotton less so) |
|
Environmental Impact (Production) |
High (petroleum-based, energy-intensive, microplastic shedding) |
Reduced (recycled content, lower water/energy use, circular focus, still microplastics) |
Variable (e.g., cotton: water/land use, pesticides; wool: methane, land impact) |
|
Cost |
Generally affordable, mass-produced |
Moderate to high (due to advanced tech and sustainability focus) |
Variable (cotton affordable, silk/cashmere expensive) |
|
UV Resistance |
Good |
Excellent, often includes added UV protection |
Variable (silk poor, cotton fair) |
|
Care Instructions |
Easy care, machine washable, quick-drying |
Easy care, machine washable, quick-drying |
Variable (cotton easy; wool/silk delicate, often special care) |
Overall the development points towards even more sophisticated polyester materials. Research into bio-based alternatives and further refinement of fiber morphology will continue to drive innovation. The ultimate goal is to create polyester that not only feels indistinguishable from natural fibers but also surpasses them in specific performance attributes, all while maintaining a minimal environmental footprint. As consumers become more discerning about both aesthetics and sustainability, these "next-generation" polyester fabrics and yarns are poised to become a cornerstone of the global textile industry.
In a meeting with Piyush Goyal, Commerce and Industry Minister, Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman of the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), and Vijay Agarwal, CEO, Cotton Textiles Export Promotion Council (TEXPROCIL), discussed urgent concerns regarding the ongoing India-US bilateral trade agreement.
Assuring the industry representatives, Goyal said, the government would prioritize safeguarding the nation's textile and apparel industries. He highlighted these sectors as crucial for employment generation and export revenues during the negotiation process. Hearing the industry's concerns, he reiterated on the government's commitment to protect labor-intensive sectors like textiles and garments from any negative fallout in the current trade talks.
Industry organizations cautioned, if the United States proceeds with its proposal to impose an additional 26 per cent reciprocal tariff on Indian imports, it could severely impact India's garment and home textiles exports. These sectors are considered the backbone of India's exports to the US.
Both Sekhri and Agarwal voiced strong objections to the potential consequences of such tariffs, citing the likelihood of reduced export volumes and significant employment losses across small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and rural manufacturing centers.
In FY24–25, India’s apparel exports to the US increased to $5 billion. The proposed US tariff increase is currently on hold until July 9, as an Indian delegation continues negotiations in Washington.
Luxury linens and bedding brand Parachute has announced a significant strategic shift. Unlike mass-market chains such as the now-defunct Bed Bath & Beyond or Linens and Things, the brand has decided to drastically reduce its retail footprint. According to a report from RetailDive, the company is closing 19 of its locations, leaving just seven remaining open. This move signals a pivot towards strengthening its wholesale relationships and focusing more on its website.
A key part of this revised strategy involves deepening ties with partners like Target. Earlier this year, Parachute launched an exclusive collection with the mass-market retail giant, a deal Target heavily promoted before its April debut. The collaboration offered over 200 bedding and bath linens, with most items priced under $90, aiming to deliver ‘cloud-like’ luxury at a value point unique to Target.
Parachute also maintains distribution through Nordstrom and previously partnered with Crate and Barrel, indicating a growing emphasis on broader retail presence through alliances rather than standalone stores. This strategic pivot highlights the ongoing evolution in retail as brands seek efficient ways to reach customers while managing the costs of physical presence.
Premium home décor and furnishings brand from Sutlej Textiles & Industries, a KK Birla Group company, Nesterra officially launched its highly anticipated ‘5.0 Collection’ in Mumbai. A significant moment for Nesterra, this launch highlights an evolution in aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability, all while reaffirming its ‘consumer-first’ philosophy.
The exclusive event attracted curated network of retailers, design professionals, and industry experts. Attendees had the opportunity to explore the meticulously crafted collection, engage in insightful conversations, and experience the fabrics firsthand. The evening culminated with a dinner and cocktail reception, fostering further connections within the design and retail community.
Ashish Kumar, CEO and Wholetime Director, Nesterra, states, celebrating craft, connection and conscience, the brand’s new collection reflects the maturity of its design philosophy, the strength of its retail partners, and the clarity of its direction. The strength of their retail partnerships is crucial to the brand's success, emphasizes Kumar. Marking a key milestone in Nesterra's product portfolio expansion and setting the stage for future growth, both domestically and internationally, the brand launched a new category of blinds this season
Significantly expanding Nesterra's creative and functional offerings, the ‘5.0 Collection’ introduces a distinct range of blinds, designed for modern homes. The fabric range includes the Flawless range of easy-clean upholstery, the light-controlling Eclipse blackout curtains, and the delicate Breeze sheers, blending everyday utility with refined aesthetics. Collections like ‘Garden of 1905’ revive intricate Flemish botanical motifs from original 1905 gouache artworks, while ‘Raw Comfort,’ ‘Twilight,’ and ‘Petal Poetry’ add tactile warmth, subtle luxury, and handcrafted charm to interiors.
Complementing the fabrics, the new blinds category features ‘Forest Frames’ (wooden blinds), ‘Layor’ (roller blinds), and ‘Shades of Blinds’ offering versatile blackout, translucent, and sheer options. These curated offerings underscore Nesterra's dedication to mindful living, design-driven storytelling, and a seamless blend of form and function.
Every collection launch reflects years of listening, observing, reflecting, and perfecting the art of dressing homes to feature the brand’s consumer's personality, reiterates Smita Joshi, Vice President, Nesterra. With its easy-care fabrics, energy-saving solutions, light-filtering drapery, and first-ever blinds range, the ‘5.0 Collection,’ is designed to be refreshing, purposeful, and relevant, embodying the philosophy that ‘less is more,’ she adds.
Each collection within the ‘5.0’ launch showcases Nesterra’s design evolution, where aesthetics meet purpose and every thread tells a story. With a strong focus on user-driven innovation and expanded categories, this new range solidifies Nesterra’s vision of transforming every home into a personal canvas of comfort, beauty, and functionality.
