In a world still dominated by fast fashion, choosing sustainable clothing is a real act of resistance — and above all, a commitment to the planet. But what actually makes a garment truly durable? Beyond design or local manufacturing, the material plays a key role. Here are the fibers to prioritize for a more responsible wardrobe.
1. Organic Cotton
Unlike conventional cotton, organic cotton is grown without pesticides or chemical fertilizers, which greatly reduces its impact on the soil and farmers’ health. It also uses less water and promotes biodiversity. Soft, breathable, and comfortable, it remains a perfect everyday choice.
👉 Best for t-shirts, shirts, underwear, or baby clothes.
2. Linen
A natural fiber emblematic of Europe, linen is the ultimate eco-friendly material. It grows without artificial irrigation, GMOs, or pesticides.
Strong and thermoregulating, it’s ideal for both warm and mid-season garments.
👉 Bonus: choosing linen grown and woven in Europe supports a local and sustainable industry.
3. Hemp
Often overlooked, hemp is one of the most sustainable fibers out there. It grows quickly, without the need for water or chemicals, while helping regenerate the soil.
Durable, breathable, and naturally antibacterial, it’s both practical and eco-conscious.
👉 Increasingly used in jeans, jackets, and accessories.
4. Tencel (or Lyocell)
Made from eucalyptus wood pulp, Tencel is an eco-friendly semi-synthetic fiber produced in a closed-loop process, meaning that water and solvents are almost entirely reused.
Exceptionally soft, fluid, and breathable, it’s an excellent alternative to conventional viscose, which is often polluting.
👉 Perfect for blouses, dresses, or flowing garments.
5. Wool
Natural, warm, and breathable, wool is a truly durable material — it regenerates naturally and doesn’t require frequent washing.
However, it’s important to choose wool from farms that respect animal welfare, such as those certified under the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS).
👉 Ideal for sweaters, coats, and scarves.
6. Merino Wool
Finer and softer than regular wool, Merino wool provides excellent temperature regulation and natural odor resistance.
It comes from Merino sheep, mainly raised in Australia and New Zealand. Make sure to choose brands that guarantee non-mulesed wool — a practice that causes suffering to animals.
👉 Great for technical clothing, base layers, and lightweight sweaters.
7. Alpaca
Originating from South America, alpaca fiber is soft, warm, and more durable than regular wool. Its production has a low environmental impact: alpacas are gentle on the land and require little water.
👉 A luxurious, durable, and ethical option for coats, scarves, and high-quality knits.
8. Silk
A natural, biodegradable fiber, silk is prized for its softness and strength. For a truly responsible choice, opt for organic silk or “peace silk” (also known as ahimsa silk), produced without harming silkworms.
👉 Perfect for elegant, timeless, and long-lasting garments.
9. Recycled Fibers
Finally, giving textiles a second life is another way to consume responsibly.
Recycled polyester (rPET) and recycled cotton help reduce waste and the use of virgin resources.
👉 Tip: wash these garments in cold water and use a microplastic filter bag to prevent water pollution.
