Why you should wear cotton clothing
World Cotton Day falls on 7 October, celebrating the world’s most important natural fibre.
As it is one of the most used fabrics, it holds a key role in providing jobs — affecting millions of growers and families worldwide — and maintaining economic stability in the least developed countries.
If you’ve never been particular about your clothes’ material, you should at least know that cotton is one of the best fabrics for clothing. Here are the reasons why.
1. It is great for moisture control
Cotton fabric is breathable and absorbent, moving moisture away from the skin. Like a towel, it keeps you dry by preventing moisture from building up between your skin and clothes. According to the International Forum for Cotton Promotion, cotton can absorb water up to one-fifth of its weight before feeling damp.
MARNI Cotton flannel shirt, US$571
BURBERRY Logo Print Cotton Oversized T-shirt, US$489
NANUSHKA Nolan pleated cotton-poplin cargo pants, US$239 (was US$479)
2. It is suitable for different kinds of weather
Cotton clothing is comfortable even with the blazing heat as it does not adhere to your skin. It also provides insulation on a chilly day as it traps air between the fabric fibres.
OFF-WHITE Embroidered cotton-fleece sweatpants, US$240 (was US$401)
Faherty Marled Cotton Cardigan, US$198
Officine Generale Ahmad Japanese Cotton Check Shirt, US$335
3. It is hypo-allergenic
Cotton fabric rarely causes allergic reactions or irritates the skin, making it the recommended clothing for people with sensitive skin or skin allergies. Cotton is also usually used in medical products like bandages and gauze, and in baby clothing.
MAJE Belted floral-print organic cotton playsuit, US$194 (was US$298)
OSCAR DE LA RENTA Belted checked cotton-tweed dress, US$1,228 (was US$2,456)
COTTON BY AUTUMN CASHMERE Ruffled ribbed cotton top, US$104 (was US$190)
4. It is strong and durable
Cotton fabric has high tensile strength and does not tear easily. When wet, it is 30 per cent stronger and can withstand frequent washings, even in hot water.
BB Dakota Cotton Candy Dress, US$62.30 (was US$89)
Lunya Airy Cotton Shorts, US$118
5. It is comfortable
As it is soft and stretchable, cotton clothing is comfortable to wear. Cotton is also the preferred fabric for underwear and undershirts due to its softness and comfort.
ULLA JOHNSON Malie pleated printed cotton-poplin midi dress, US$561.10
SKIMS Cotton Collection ribbed cotton-blend jersey boxer shorts - Light Heather Grey, US$34.19
SKIMS Cotton Collection ribbed cotton-blend jersey thong - Soot, US$21.88
6. It is environmentally friendly
As a natural fibre, cotton is 100 per cent biodegradable. There are no harsh chemicals in it that would harm the wearer, the environment or the wildlife. This makes it less toxic than other synthetic fibres.
BURBERRY Monogram Motif Cotton T-shirt, US$396 (was US$566)
MOMONI Iowa blouse in cotton voile, US$109 (was US$155)
CLOSED Luna Cotton Pants, US$121 (was US$243)
