Healthy Fashion

When you’re out shopping for your latest outfit how do you decide what you’re going to buy?

Here are two questions you can ask before purchasing your next new outfit.

1. What type of fabric is it made of?

There are many different types of fabric that a garment can be made of. Polyester, nylon, cotton and wool are just a few. It helps to know a little something about each one in order to make an informed decision.

For starters it’s good to know which ones are synthetic and which ones are natural fibers. Why?

Well, let’s begin with the synthetic ones. Synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, acrylic and olefin can be quite convenient and easy to maintain. Yet, there is a downside. They are generally made from petrochemical derivatives which can be detrimental to your health.

For instance, polyester, a very versatile fiber, is used for many different things including clothing. It’s wrinkle free and very easy to maintain. It’s also made up of petrochemical derivatives including ethylene glycol and xylenes.

These chemicals are known to cause a few health issues such as headaches, fatigue, and even dizziness. As the fabric breaks down and outgases they can enter the blood stream.

On the other hand, natural fibers such as cotton, linen, wool, and silk come from plants and animals. Although, they aren’t quite as easy to maintain as synthetics – some may shrink and are not wrinkle free –  they are generally a much healthier alternative.

For example, cotton, a plant fiber and very versatile, is breathable. In other words, air flows through it. So, it’s good for the skin. And even though you may have to be careful about what water temperature is used to launder it and do a little ironing, isn’t the extra work worth the healthful benefits?

2.    What processes were used to get the finished product?

Let’s say you’ve selected a garment that is made of all natural fibers. The next question to consider is what processes were involved to get the finished product.

For instance, you chose a cotton top that is labeled wrinkle free and stain resistant. These features were more than likely obtained through a process that involved chemicals that may actually be carcinogenic.

So, again you are faced with a choice between convenience and health. A natural fiber garment that is not labeled wrinkle free or stain resistant would be a healthier alternative.

Which would you choose?

Just keeping these questions in mind when buying your new outfit can help you feel as great as you look.