While it is rather easy to decide on prints, cuts and styles, the quality of fabric remains a prior concern while investing in winter clothes. After all, you practically live in those and checking for comfort and softness is natural.

Winter has come and if you’re on the hunt for clothes that feel as brilliant and plush as they look, it is vital to understand the different fabrics they are made of. While the cosiest sweater that you most readily wear every third day could be the natural wool or cashmere, the other one that you have known to be water-resistant and quick-drying- your go-to pick when its foggy, could be the synthetic acrylic.

Which Fabric is Warmer - Natural or Synthetic?

Contrary to the popular belief that all natural fabrics are warmer than synthetic fabrics, only those natural fabrics that are obtained from animals can be regarded. For example, polyester, which is a synthetic fabric can be warmer than the cotton which is plant-obtained.

On the other hand, the soft, strong and durable wool, obtained from the hair of a camelid, is always warmer than any synthetic fabric. It not only provides warmth, but also has an attractive appearance along with moisture wicking properties. The breathable wool is resistant to wrinkles, dirt and daily wear and tear. It is found in almost any basic winter wardrobe.

The Lightweight and Delicate Natural Fabrics

Natural fabrics, such as the plush merino wool, cotton, silk and cashmere are produced by plants, animals, and geological processes. These fabrics are recognised for their lustre, beauty and luxurious look. Silk, for instance, drapes well and is often commended as the queen of all fabrics. Cotton, on the other hand, gives the most soothing and comfortable feel against the skin and is versatile as it can keep you both warm and cool.

The Low-Maintenance Synthetic Fabrics

The man-made, or synthetic fabrics are produced in laboratories with all qualities including the length, fineness, strength and elasticity being fully controlled. Consequently, the strength of these fabrics are greater than that of natural fabrics.

What Makes Wool Warmer Than Synthetic?

The wool fabric has a natural loft that traps heat to provide humans guard against the cold inclement weather, just as they protect their animal counterparts. It has inbuilt insulating and moisture-wicking properties to help both, the camelids and humans survive in varying weather conditions.

Understanding the Acrylic Fabric

The acrylic yarn might not have the warmth of alpaca or sheep wool, but it will efficiently keep you cosy on a cold winter day. It is a versatile synthetic fabric which is soft against the skin and provides lightweight comfort. However, it is still plastic and therefore, not as breathable as wool or cashmere!

Benefits of Blending Acrylic with Wool

If the tag on your favourite sweater does not say 100% wool, chances are it is fashioned with a blend of wool and a synthetic fibre - say acrylic or nylon. This unique combination results in a stylish and warm sweater which is more affordable, durable and versatile than pure wool or cashmere sweaters.

Summary

The growing popularity of synthetic fabrics can be associated with their better durability and cheaper manufacturing. However, the blend of synthetic and natural fabrics help you get the best of both worlds, making them an ideal choice.