FABRICS

Natural fabrics are made from fibres found in nature, like plants or animals. You’ll find cotton, linen (from flax), and hemp in the plant camp, while wool, silk, and alpaca come from animals. Since they’re not made from plastics, natural fabrics are breathable, biodegradable, and cosy to wear - no sweaty synthetics here.

Natural fabrics differ from synthetic ones by being made from plant or animal fibres, not petroleum-based plastics. That means they’re more breathable, biodegradable, and often gentler on the skin. Synthetics like polyester might be cheap and cheerful, but they’re less comfy for all-day wear and not great for the planet.

Natural fabrics come from cultivated crops or animal fibres, depending on the material. Cotton, flax (for linen), and hemp grow in fields, while wool, silk, and alpaca are sourced from animals. Cotton is grown worldwide, but linen often hails from Western Europe, and hemp comes from parts of Asia and North America.

The most buy-it-for-life natural fabrics include heavy linen, hemp, wool, and raw denim. These tough materials last brilliantly over time and even improve with age. Look for dense weaves and pieces designed to be repaired - better still if they come with a lifetime guarantee or re-mending service, like Johnstons’ free re-darning.

To care for linen, hemp, or raw denim properly, wash cold and air dry - it helps prevent shrinking and keeps fibres strong. Avoid high heat and harsh chemicals. For raw denim, less is more: wash sparingly to preserve fit and that classic fade. See our full linen care guide for detailed tips.

Most natural fabrics are biodegradable, but not all are equally eco-friendly. Organic cotton, hemp, and linen break down naturally and use fewer chemicals. That said, conventional cotton can be thirsty work, and silk production may harm animals. It’s worth checking how your fabric was farmed and processed.

For high-quality garments made from natural fabrics in the UK, explore our durable-womens-clothing and durable-mens-clothing. Each piece is chosen for its sustainability, longevity, and wearability - built to last, not landfill.