Why I Switched to Natural Fibers (And Why You Should Too)
Not too long ago, my life took an unexpected turn that forever changed my perspective on clothing and sustainability. When my son developed a latex allergy, I found myself navigating a complex landscape of safety and choices. This challenge coincided with my journey as a fashion design student and led me to a fascinating intersection of health and sustainability.
A Wake-Up Call: Navigating Allergies and Clothing Choices
Learning about my son’s latex allergy was both surprising and daunting. We had to reassess our entire wardrobe, scrutinizing labels and avoiding countless brands, as many materials contained latex. It was a challenging task, but it sparked a crucial reflection on our approach to clothing.
At the same time, I was pregnant with my second son and working on creating a denim collection for Circulo de la Moda in Colombia. I remember carefully selecting denim from suppliers, believing in the importance of style and design as I embarked on this exciting venture. However, life had different plans. I quickly developed a severe allergy to dust— from the denim I had just bought, and this allergy lingered long after my son was born. Managing my allergies became another layer of complexity.
Then, I spoke to my mother, who reminded me about my allergy to acrylic wool. She used to sew sweaters for me when I was little, and I tried to use them painfully, acknowledging her work to make those beautiful creations, but somehow, just wearing these precious treasures was making me itchy and almost at the edge of crying.
As I balanced design projects, pregnancy, and family allergies, I realized that the materials I worked with in fashion were significant—not just for their aesthetic appeal but also for health and safety. This realization prompted a shift in my understanding of materials, pushing me toward natural fibers that would ultimately serve my family’s needs and my passion for design.
Discovering Natural Fibers
As I searched for safe alternatives for my son, I dove deep into the fabrics I used. I discovered the incredible world of natural, organic cotton, linen, wool, and hemp fibers, which are gentle on the skin and environmentally friendly. By then, there were few options in Latin America, where I used to live. And they were very pricey, too.
But this was a journey of no return: once I fell in love with the softness, quality and benefits of organic cotton and linen, there was no turning back.
I tried to move away from consumerism and be more innovative and savvy when buying clothes, especially for my children. I always look for efficiency in terms of quality vs. budget: if I need two things, I buy one that will last two. This mindset comes naturally to me when curating natural fibers for Wonena.
After all that we’ve been through, I feel a sense of accomplishment each time I select pieces for our Natural Fibers collection: https://www.wonena.com/collections/natural-fibers.
I can't say that my wardrobe is 100% natural; I have many years of accumulated passing fashion trends. The only thing I can say is that this love for the natural, which originated in my years as a mother of babies, always reminds me of the value of decisions when buying clothes.
The Benefits of Natural Fibers
Did you know that many allergies and skin irritations are linked to the synthetic fabrics we wear daily? Natural fibers, like organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo, offer a hypoallergenic alternative free from harsh chemicals and dyes. Choosing these materials isn’t just about comfort but also about protecting your skin and health.
Adopting natural fibers dramatically shifted our lifestyle and correlated beautifully with my studies in fashion design:
- Comfort: Finding clothing made from natural fibers became essential. I needed materials that were gentle on my son's skin and breathable for my allergy-prone body. Natural fibers provided the comfort we needed, allowing us to go about our day without irritation.
- Durability: As I focused on creating a denim collection, I recognized the importance of durability in fabric. High-quality natural fibers proved resilient and long-lasting, echoing the ethos of my designs.
- Sustainability: By seeking sustainable materials for my collection and our wardrobe, I became aware of the artisans behind the fabrics and understood the impact of responsible sourcing. Natural fibers are biodegradable, meaning they break down naturally over time, reducing the burden of waste in landfills. This starkly contrasts synthetic fibers, which can decompose for decades or centuries, contributing to environmental pollution. By choosing plant-derived fibers, we support healthier human choices and foster a more sustainable planet.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The beauty of natural materials began to influence my design approach. The collection's earthy tones and soft textures inspired me as I continued my work, emphasizing that style could be achieved without compromising safety or sustainability.
Conclusion
If you’ve ever experienced itching or redness in your clothes, it might be time to rethink your fabric choices. Natural fibers are inherently breathable, chemical-free, and gentle on the skin, making them the ideal option for those prone to allergies. Discover how switching to these eco-friendly materials can transform your wardrobe and well-being.
My son’s latex allergy led to an unexpected journey toward sustainability, beautifully intertwining with my passion for fashion. It reminded me of my purpose and the importance of choosing materials that align with our values.
The challenges I faced during pregnancy, coupled with lingering allergies, clarified my life and work, allowing me to embrace a lifestyle focused on health and sustainability. Each garment tells our story—a narrative of resilience, growth, and a commitment to making mindful choices.
In a world overflowing with options, choosing clothing made from natural fibers has empowered my family and reflected our rich journey toward health and wellness. This decision is meaningful regarding personal health and fostering care for the environment, as we contribute to a biodegradable cycle that minimizes waste.
It is a significant step forward in my life as a designer and a mother. It allows me to celebrate style while honoring safety and compassion for the planet. As we continue on this path, we will weave our shared values and experiences together, creating a legacy we can all be proud of.
