Fashion conscious? Cotton is the choice

Mumbai, May 20 (UNI) Cotton has emerged as the fabric of choice for fashion apparel buyers, a survey by a consulting firm indicates.

Respondents to the survey have said that trendy, stylist cotton designer wear is in vogue for club wear, parties and weddings.

The survey has reaffirmed that cotton continues to reign supreme compared to other fabrics when basic attributes are considered. For instance, in the matter of comfort, 85 per cent of the respondents reportedly opted for cotton while in regard to durability, 69 per cent preferred cotton. About 71 per cent of respondents voted cotton in regard to availabiltiy in a variety of colours, while 80 per cent said cotton is the best fabric for casual homewear.

Meanwhile, in USA, cotton is reported to be presently riding a consumer trend towards luxury goods and apparel designers are said to be preferring luxury cotton extensively in high-end apparels. It is stated that to be classified as a luxury cotton or Extralong Staple Cotton (ELS), the fibre length should be 1-3/8 inches or more. Such cotton are termed as ELS cotton but are also referred to as luxury cottons by some.

The longer fibres of luxury cotton are said to allow for finer and more supple fabrics with elegant drape and softness. Further, luxury cottons are reportedly 45 per cent stronger than conventional cotton which makes for stronger fabrics that can withstand the demands of performance finishes like ''no-iron''.

UNI