Buying high-quality wardrobe staples is not only a long-term investment, but is considered sustainable fashion purchases.
Sustainable clothing promotes ethical practices that take the planet – and the people who make the clothing – into consideration every step of the way.
Good quality clothing is made of natural fabrics such as wool, linen and cotton.
They look, feel, and function with superior quality, and given the proper care, will last a lifetime. It’s also a commitment to the environment: investing in quality garments that stand the test of time means you end up buying less.
To help you keep your favourite garments in top form, with the help of the design team at Country Road, we’re giving you a quick master-class on caring for the top three natural fabrics you should have in your wardrobe.
Wool
Among the most luxurious fabrics, wool takes the top spot. But as a luxury textile, wool needs a little extra care to ensure garments last for years to come.
As wool is particularly delicate, turn garments inside out and only use soft, eco-friendly detergents when washing.
Avoid wringing out wool or drying it in a machine, as the shape of the garment might alter permanently.
Linen
Linen is a hard-working and durable fabric. It perfectly regulates body heat, thanks to its highly absorbent and breathable nature. It also feels good on the body and moves comfortably as you do.
Caring for linen is easy when you follow a few easy steps. Always wash linen separately from other fabrics.
Sort by colours and wash in lukewarm to cold water. Although you can wash with a machine, hand-washing linen will extend its life considerably. Avoid using bleach or other harmful chemicals.
Cotton
Cotton is a staple in textiles for a reason. It’s incredibly durable and able to withstand a lot of wear and tear.
Like linen, it’s highly absorbent and breathable, but comes with a much easier care routine. Gentle machine washing with a gentle detergent is perfect, followed by air drying.
Always read the care labels inside your clothes carefully, as many garments are often made from blends of different materials and might need special care or attention.