A Deep Dive into Streetwear's Fabric Types

Streetwear boasts a unique style that seamlessly incorporates elements of hip hop, Japanese-inspired street looks, contemporary haute couture, and many more.

In the modern fashion world, there are fabrics available on the market that adapt and suit the streetwear industry best. Each type has specific characteristics in terms of convenience, production, and styling.

As streetwear packs a distinctive style featuring expression, comfort, and longevity, it is essential to be familiar with its commonly used fabrics before deciding which one to look for. To provide you with some guidance, here's a look at the different fabric types used by most streetwear clothing manufacturers.

Cotton

Hailed as the most widely-used fabric thanks to its versatility, Cotton can be seen from beanies, sweaters, pants, and hoodies. Cotton is ideal for everyday use as it is pilling-resistant, allowing you to strut around in comfort without worrying about tears.

Soft, breathable, and durable, Cotton proves to be an all-rounder.

Denim

Denim is almost the first word you'll think of when you think about streetwear. From jackets, jeans, to sneakers, Denim really carries the casual expressive vibe of any wearer. This fabric is amazingly sturdy, hard-wearing, and adaptable. As the fashion industry broadens, more kinds of Denim versions have surfaced to accommodate different styles and feel.

Fleece

Offering warmth and comfort, Fleece makes an ideal material for streetwear jackets and hoodies. As it is incorporated with air pockets, this fabric can keep you from the cold seamlessly. It is also durable and moisture-resistant, making it suitable for challenging weather conditions.

Polyester

The fabric Polyester allows you to say goodbye to the inconvenience of wrinkles and stains. This easy-to-maintain characteristic makes it a popular material for bomber jackets, pants, t-shirts, and hoodies.

When blended with Cotton, Polyester amps its potential and packs more breathability. Additionally, it holds its shape and color even for more extended wear.

Linen

Easy to sew, Linen is often blended with Cotton to produce lightweight streetwear clothing for summertime. It is robust and low maintenance, allowing seamless breathability thanks to its significant fiber components.

They are commonly used for making baggy pants, light outerwear, and skirts.

Wool

Often produced into trousers, coats, street suits, and sweaters, Wool is a textile fabric made from the hairs of sheep or other animals. Even though it is often a more expensive choice, it is still widely used in colder places as it offers a perfect blend of heat and breathability.

Nylon

Dominating the synthetic fiber market, Nylon can be used in a variety of streetwear items such as backpacks, athletic shoes, socks, hats, etc. It is difficult to tear, and it resists abrasion, so you don't have to worry about its deterioration anytime soon.

With the creative use of these fabrics and other elements, most streetwear clothing items pack both comfort and versatility. Manufacturers can also blend most types to combine different features and alter the finish.

Truly a primary driver in the fashion industry, the streetwear trend promotes
diversity in textures, fabrics, colors, vibe, and more.

— Written by Euharra of Instinct Studios