The Ultimate Guide to All Types of Fabric: Materials, Uses & Characteristics
Explore the amazing, complex and enriching world of textiles! Whether you’re a haute couture designer developing your Spring/Summer collection; an interior designer creatively defining a “warm minimalist” environment in Dubai; or a procurement manager looking for dependable, global manufacturers, understanding all types of fabrics is the foundation for unlocking your creativity!
At Symphony Fabrics, we believe that “every great garment and every exquisite interior starts with a single perfect thread!” For the last 80 years, we’ve been developing this craft through four generations of expertise and producing at least 700,000-800,000 meters of fabric each month. Our mission, like you, is to learn, understand and create the finest textiles possible. Just start reading this guide to start discovering the wide variety of types of fabrics available to help you create your next masterpiece!
(If you wish to learn more about how the various types of material are made from a structural standpoint, we have a separate dedicated guide available.)
Understanding the All types of Fabric: Natural vs. Synthetic Fibers
When categorizing various types of fabric, the most fundamental distinction lies in the source of the fibers. They are broadly divided into natural fibers (derived from organically grown plants) and synthetic fibers (man-made through harsh chemical processes).
The Pinnacle of Luxury: Natural Plant-Based Fabrics Natural fabrics are celebrated globally for their unparalleled breathability, beautiful aging process, and supreme comfort against the skin.
European 100% Linen Fabric: Sourced from the finest flax, European linen is the absolute gold standard for warm-weather elegance. It offers exceptional moisture-wicking properties and a crisp, Elegant drape that designers absolutely love for high-end resort wear.
Organic Cotton Fabric: Smooth, versatile, and incredibly soft, organic cotton is a designer’s dream. By growing this cotton without harmful chemicals, the result of fabric is so pure , stronger, and infinitely better for the environment.