5 Things to Know Before Buying Cotton Dressing

One of the most important prerequisites for creating a long-lasting and sustainable wardrobe is buying high quality clothing. However, in order to be able to put together such a wardrobe, one must be able to evaluate the quality of the fabric. There are vast differences between well-made clothing that will last a long time and fast-fashion products that loose their shape quickly, do not last more than one season, or even cause unpleasant skin irritations. So it's important to know what distinguishes high-quality clothing from inferior garments and how to recognise these characteristics before buying.

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To help you with future purchases, here is an introduction on how to identify high quality cotton clothing. In this article, our focus is on cotton, the main fabric used to create basics and essentials.

Overview:

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Characteristics of high quality clothing?

Before we go into the details of how to find high quality fabrics, it's also worth describing what quality means and what distinguishes a premium garment from an inferior one. There are several key factors that define quality:

• Longevity: A garment should last longer than just a few months. You should not have to worry that your clothes will tear apart when putting them on or taking them off.
• Resistance: All garments should keep their shape. Even after many washes, clothing should not wear out, shrink or twist
• Dye: Colours should not fade. Instead, colours should look deep and fresh even after years of wear and washing cycles.
• Drape: Everyone prefers fabrics with a natural drape that are used to design flattering clothing.
• Comfort: The fabric must feel good on the skin. Nobody wants a scratchy T-Shirt.
• Style: Of course, we want clothes that are not only objectively high quality but also subjectively show that quality.

Fulfilling some or all of these requirements costs time but above all money (and ultimately margin for manufacturers). Therefore, it is difficult to discover really good quality at extremely low prices. Of course, it is tempting for most of us to buy an initially great looking piece at a discount price but more often than not differences will appear after the item has been worn and washed.

But there is also another factor: sustainability. Even if quality and sustainable production methods are not always directly related, most sustainable fashion brands also have an ethos that pays extra attention to quality. This is in part because owning a high-quality piece that lasts a long time or even a lifetime is of course more sustainable than constantly buying new clothes and throwing them away (if you want to know more about sustainability, take a look at this other post on how to buy clothing sustainably in our journal).

Premium raw materials have significantly higher prices than standard cotton.

That's the various factors that make up quality but how do you check the quality of a fabric before buying?

First impressions

Most of us judge a garment by its first impression. Only a few take the time to take a detailed look at the quality. First of all, it is important to see the garment as a whole: a great finish for example is of little use if the fabric is of poor quality and vice versa.

Durability, Softness, Breathability

Even with 100% cotton fabrics there are huge differences in quality. Cotton is very popular because it is versatile, relatively inexpensive and, when it's good quality, also durable. Some of the quality characteristics we have listed above are a matter of taste, such as 'look' and 'drape', but the following features can be used to objectively judge the quality of cotton fabrics.

• Durability: Fabrics made from long staple fibres are normally higher quality because they are spun into a finer yarn. This makes the resulting fabric stronger and more durable.
• Softness: The length of the fibres is also important for the softness of the material. This is because with short fibres their ends cannot finish cleanly, whereas long fibres are woven more evenly into the fabric.
• Breathability: One reason why some fabrics are less breathable than others are the tiny air pockets between the individual threads, which provide thermal insulation. Finely combed cotton can be woven very tightly to avoid air pockets and the unpleasant sweaty feeling.

Note the most fundamental quality characteristic of cotton is the length (or staple) of the individual fibres and how finely they are combed ' this affects the points above directly. You can read more about cotton quality and fibre lengths in this post on the different types of cotton used in t-shirts and clothing.

Premium yarns are the foundation of high quality fabrics.

Haptics: The tactility test

You can easily tell the quality of cotton by its touch: cotton fabrics made from 100% ELS (extra-long staple), or finely combed cotton feel smooth and nearly silky. Cheaper varieties often lack this softness (unless they are made from inferior polyester blends: so don't forget to check the care label to make sure you're buying a 100% cotton T-Shirt). Obviously, touching the fabric is not an option when shopping online: but you can be sure that brands using high quality cotton varieties, like ELS, will mention this on their website and product description.

Soft touch of a quality French Terry knit

Optics: The light test

If you are able to physically touch the garment before buying, another trick is to hold it against light. Even very thin fabrics should not appear fully transparent. If the fabric lets a lot of light through, it is a sign that it is not knitted or woven very densely and is therefore likely to lose shape and wear out easily.

Finishing: The uniformity test

Since cotton is spun to create a yarn, it is easy to inspect the individual threads. These should be even and not show any gaps. Up close, all you should see is a regular pattern of smooth rows.

Clean knitting pattern of a jersey: a sign of high quality cotton (pictured close up of the navy T-Shirt).

When buying clothing online

When buying online, you need to rely on the product description. As a rule of thumb one can assume that the more information you find about a fabric, its composition and characteristics, the higher the quality of the actual fabric and ultimately garment. So, if a brand does not outline the specs of their materials in detail one can assume from the absence of information that the cotton fabric is of inferior quality. At SANVT, we work exclusively with high-quality or finely combed cotton. If you are interested to find out more, you will find details in the product description of each of our products.

Acknowledging good cotton dresses can make all the difference when it comes to comfort, durability, and doing your part for ethical fashion. There's nothing quite like the feel of soft, premium cotton against your skin. 

Plus, such cotton garments are made to last, so you won't have to keep substituting your favorite pieces. But with a sea of options out there, it can be hard to know what to choose. That's why we've put together this guide to help you spot the best cotton clothing. 

In this cotton clothing buying guide, we'll walk you through everything from different types of ethical cotton & their unique qualities to look for in the cloth. It won't be an issue if you're shopping in-store or online, you'll be ready to make the best decisions for your closet & the planet.

Varieties In Cotton Quality

When it comes to high-quality cotton, not all types are created equal. Different kinds of cotton are known according to their quality, and knowing these can help you make more up-to-date decisions.

1. Organic cotton is grown without the use of artificial pesticides or fertilizers, & is better for nature, and is softer and more stable due to its natural farming practices. Check out this red tropical fabric from the House of Ekam.

2. Egyptian cotton is very soft and known for its extra-long staple fibers. This cotton is often used in high-end sheets & clothing due to its fine quality and supreme comfort. The yellow safari cotton fabric is a must to check out.

3. Pima cotton is similar to Egyptian. It's a slick, gentle, and strong textile. This textile is valued for its great quality. This Kentish Cotton Suit Set is worth mentioning.

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4. There are other types of best-quality cotton, such as Sea Island cotton, which is known for its silky finishing & strength. To buy an amazing Indian Paisley Cotton Fabric, click here.

Farming techniques play a major role in the quality of cotton. For eg., organic farming processes, avoiding harmful chemicals, result in textiles that are not only softer & stronger but also less likely to upset sensitive skin. Check online documentation and validations that show that the cotton weave meets strict ecological & social bars, safeguarding it is of fine quality.

How Can You Analyse the Fabric?

Cotton fabric is available in different qualities and the high-quality fabrics have the following unique features that make them different from other fabrics. Refer to these when you need to see what to look for to identify quality cotton-

1. Soft cotton fabrics feel good when touched and the fabrics also have a smooth surface. This is because it is noted that high quality means longer fiber that makes finer, smoother yarn.

2. Top-quality sustainable cotton fabrics typically have a tight weave & even texture, showing that the yarns are closely packed together. The outcome is a stronger, more durable fabric capable of maintaining its shape over time.

3. Fine cotton is known for its longevity & ability to withstand regular wear & washing without losing its goodness. The textile should feel sturdy yet flexible, denoting that it will last.

4. Clothes of branded quality will drape well and cling to the contours of the body without looking stiff. The weight of the fabric should bear substantial significance without appearing excessively heavy.

When purchasing cotton clothing, take a moment to feel the fabric and feel its quality. A well-made cotton garment should feel both comfy.

Examining The Detail in Making

The construction & details of a garment are very necessary when determining its quality. Branded cotton clothing is not just about the fabric itself but also how it is put together.

1. One must observe the joins on the dress. Good-quality clothing should not have unfastened seams or loose strings of fabric hanging off them or in between them. Good stitch work means a very good point because it means the garment is well constructed and constructed to a higher standard.

2. Try finding signs of ethical cotton, like neatly finished edges, well-placed seams, & symmetrical patterns. These details show a high level of care & precision in the garment's construction.

3. Quality clothes must have strong, good buttons, zippers that do not jam & well-fixed buckles or snaps. Not only do these elements augment the beauty of the garment but they also serve it well.

By studying such intricacies, you can get a better vision of the dress's quality and make sure that it is worth the money.

Considering Ethical Practices

When shopping for high-quality cotton clothing, it's important to consider the reputation of the brand and any relevant certifications.

1. Local Brands- Explore reputable local brands that prioritize quality and sustainability.

2. Fabric Blends- Think about the cotton combinations with linen or bamboo for extra comfort & durability.

3. Weaving Techniques- Search for old Indian weaving techniques, such as khadi or handloom, for unique & sustainable options.

4. Moral Sourcing- One must know about the brand's sourcing practices and its commitment to supporting local farmers and artisans.

By taking these factors into account, you can find high-quality cotton clothing that aligns with your preferences and values.

Some Tips for Buying High-Quality Cotton Clothing

See these practical tips to help you identify good cotton clothing, no matter if you're looking in stores or online-

1. Whenever it is possible, feel the fabric to know if it is soft & smooth. A good quality attire should feel relaxing.

2. One must notice the stitching also. High-quality garments will have tight, even stitching, well-finished seams, and sturdy hardware.

3. When shopping online, read the product descriptions carefully to understand the fabric composition and care instructions. Look for mentions of high-quality cotton varieties, certifications, and ethical production practices.

4. Don't be afraid to ask sales staff about the cotton used and the garment's production process. Knowledgeable staff should be able to provide information about the fabric and how it was made.

By following these tips, you can make perfect purchasing decisions & capitalize on high-quality cotton clothing that will last.

Conclusion

To buy good quality cotton dresses or fabrics, one must know what kind of cotton it's about, and get familiarized with its characteristics & popular companies. By opting for morally-produced cotton, you not only make the best use of attire that promises longevity but also support sustainable fashion.

If you would like to learn more about high-quality cotton clothing, please visit the House Of Ekam now. May you all have a happy shopping involvement!

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Cotton Dressing. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.