PPB August 2019

T he world may “run on Dunkin’,” but it’s dressed in cotton. Known as the foundation of many fabrics and materials, from denim, velvet, corduroy, khaki and velour, to chambray, flannel and even fishnet, people worldwide have been wearing cotton for some 7,000 years, and it remains one of the most popular, non- synthetic fabrics used today. Many of us can likely recall the Cotton, Inc. commercials with the catchy phrase, “The fabric of our lives.” As per Jonathan Robins, author of Cotton and Race Across the Atlantic, “We live in a world shaped by cotton.” But, despite our love for cotton—it’s no longer the only fabric favored by manufacturers or preferred by customers. There is a range of fabrics available, which carry their own unique benefits, from moisture-wicking qualities, to eco-friendly practices, sustainability and reduction of harmful emissions and waste. Here’s a look at some of themain types of alternative fabrics. The Feel Of Fresh Fabrics Cotton isn’t the only material that’s increased in popularity for promotional apparel. Eco-friendly, sustainable fabrics are on the rise, too. 14 | AUGUST 2019 | A l t e rna t i ve Fabr i cs INNOVATE by Danielle Renda