Style Finder

Types of clothing

Types of fabric

Cotton, linen, wool, silk or polyester? The fabrics clothes are made from, how they feel and wear, and how to care for them.

By Style Finder · Updated 26 October 2026

Types of fabric

  • CottonAI illustration

    Cotton

    A soft, breathable natural fibre, used for T-shirts, shirts, jeans and more.

    Easy to wash; can shrink in a hot wash.

  • LinenAI illustration

    Linen

    A natural fibre from flax: cool, breathable and quick-drying, but it creases.

    Ideal for hot weather.

  • WoolAI illustration

    Wool

    A warm natural fibre from sheep that stays warm when damp and resists smells.

    Knits, coats and suits; wash gently or air it.

  • CashmereAI illustration

    Cashmere

    A very soft, light and warm wool from cashmere goats.

    Luxurious knitwear; hand wash or dry clean.

  • SilkAI illustration

    Silk

    A smooth, light natural fibre with a sheen, made by silkworms.

    Blouses, dresses and scarves; often hand wash or dry clean.

  • DenimAI illustration

    Denim

    A sturdy cotton twill, usually dyed indigo, used for jeans and jackets.

    Wash inside out and cold to keep the colour.

  • PolyesterAI illustration

    Polyester

    A strong, light synthetic fibre that dries fast and resists creases.

    Sportswear and blends; less breathable than natural fibres.

  • ViscoseAI illustration

    Viscose

    A soft, drapey fibre made from wood pulp, also called rayon.

    Dresses and blouses; often wash cool and gently.

Questions

Linen and light cotton are the most breathable for heat.

Wool, cashmere and down-filled clothes are among the warmest.

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