Cotton
remains the most miraculous fiber under the sun, even after 8,000 years.
No other fiber comes close to duplicating all of the desirable
characteristics combined in cotton. The fiber of a thousand faces and
almost as many uses, cotton is noted for its versatility, appearance,
performance and above all, its natural comfort. Used for all types of
apparel, cotton in today's fast-moving world is still nature's wonder
fiber.
Types of Cotton
Low to medium grade cotton are found in mass produced goods and cotton
blend goods. Higher grades of cotton, which includes longer-staple
cotton, are used in fine quality shirtings and bedding fabrics. Egyptian
cotton, a high quality cotton, has been produced in the Nile River
Valley for many centuries. This type of cotton has long been known for
its soft luxurious hand and luster. Other types of high quality cotton
include Pima, Supima, American Egyptian and Sea Island cotton.
Characteristics of Cotton
Cotton's aesthetics vary depending on the applied treatments, the fiber
blend (if blended) and the grade of the fiber. A typical 100% untreated
cotton fabric has a pleasant matte luster, a soft drape and a smooth
hand. Cotton garments are very comfortable to wear due to their soft
hand and other characteristics. Cotton garments absorb perspiration,
thus keeping the person more comfortable.
Cotton dresses wrinkles very easily. However, there are many cotton
dresses on the market that have been treated with wrinkle resistant
finishes. These finishes reduce the need to iron cotton clothes. Cotton
dresses can typically be machine washed and dried. Colored cotton
garments retain their color longer if they are washed in warm or cool
water. Cotton fabrics can be bleached but too much bleaching could
weaken the fibers.
Cotton Apparel
Cotton is a soft, fluffy, naturally occurring fiber plant that are
processed into an array of garments and apparel such as blouses, shirts,
dresses, active-wear, separates, swim-wear, suits, jackets, skirts,
pants, sweaters, hosiery and neckwear.
