Cotton and Cotton Blends Cotton remains a staple in streetwear due to its natural feel, breathability, and versatility. Different cotton weights and constructions offer various properties:

· Cotton jersey: Soft, stretchy, and comfortable for t-shirts and casual wear
· Heavyweight cotton: Durable and structured for hoodies and sweatshirts
· Cotton twill: Strong with diagonal texture for pants and jackets
· Organic cotton: Environmentally friendly option for sustainable brands

Cotton blends with synthetic fibers like polyester or elastane improve durability, stretch, and recovery while maintaining natural feel.

Denim and Canvas Denim is iconic in streetwear for its durability and characteristic fading. Options include:

· Raw denim: Unwashed and stiff, developing unique fade patterns with wear
· Stretch denim: Incorporating elastane for comfort and mobility
· Selvedge denim: Premium quality with finished edges for detailing
· Canvas: Heavyweight and durable for bags and accessories

Denim weights vary from light (8-10 oz) for comfortable wear to heavy (14+ oz) for durability and structure.

Fleece and French Terry Fleece and French terry provide warmth and comfort for casual streetwear:

· Fleece: Brushed interior for insulation in hoodies and sweatshirts
· French terry: Looped back with smooth face for lightweight comfort
· Sherpa: Plush pile lining for extreme warmth and texture
· Technical fleece: Performance properties like moisture-wicking

These fabrics are essential for layered looks and cooler weather collections.

Technical and Synthetic Fabrics Technical fabrics bring performance features to streetwear:

· Polyester: Durable, quick-drying, and color-fast for consistent appearance
· Nylon: Strong and lightweight for outerwear and accessories
· Elastane: Added stretch for comfort and mobility
· Water-resistant treatments: Protection from light rain and spills

Technical fabrics often incorporate special weaves or coatings for specific functional benefits.

Sustainable and Innovative Materials Sustainable materials are increasingly important in streetwear:

· Recycled polyester: From plastic bottles reducing environmental impact
· Organic cotton: Grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers
· Hemp: Durable and environmentally friendly natural fiber
· Innovative materials: From unexpected sources like mushrooms or algae

These materials address growing consumer concerns about environmental impact.

Fabric Selection Considerations When selecting streetwear fabrics, consider:

· Weight: Appropriate for the garment type and season
· Drape: How the fabric hangs and moves on the body
· Color absorption: Especially important for vibrant prints and dyes
· Care requirements: Ease of maintenance for consumers
· Cost: Balancing quality with price point constraints

Always request fabric samples and test them for your specific application before production.