Natural fibers come from plants, animals, or, more rarely, minerals. Cotton and linen grow from the soil, wool and silk come from animals, and all share one defining trait: they originate in nature, not in a laboratory.
Requiring fewer chemical additives, natural fabrics are 100% biodegradable and work in harmony with the body. They offer superior breathability, moisture regulation and improve with time: linen softens and cotton molds to your body with wear.
1. Organic Cotton – The Everyday Essential
Cotton comes from the cotton plant (Gossypium), where soft, fluffy fibers grow around the seeds inside the cotton boll. Once harvested, these fibers are cleaned, spun into yarn, and woven or knitted into fabric.
Cotton thrives in warm climates with plenty of sunlight. China is the largest producer, with around 30% of world cotton production, followed by India at about 20% of the global total.
Conventional cotton farming is resource-intensive, using large amounts of water and chemical inputs that harm soils and ecosystems. Organic cotton offers a cleaner alternative: grown without synthetic pesticides, it supports healthier land, farming communities, and can emit up to 50% less CO₂ than conventional cotton.
2. Linen – The Summer Hero
Linen is made from the fibers of the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum) and is one of the oldest textiles in history. The fibers are extracted through retting, then combed, spun, and woven into fabric.
Linen thrives in temperate climates with moderate rainfall and nutrient-rich soil, making Europe the largest producer, responsible for around 80% of global linen fiber. Linen is an eco-friendly choice because flax requires minimal water, few pesticides, and grows naturally, leaving a smaller environmental footprint than many other crops.
3. TENCEL™ (Lyocell) – The Modern Eco-Fiber
TENCEL™ (Lyocell) is a fiber made from responsibly sourced wood pulp, most commonly eucalyptus or beech trees. While technically man-made, it is derived from natural materials and produced using a closed-loop process that recycles water and solvents. Soft, breathable, and drapable, Tencel is perfect for flowing dresses, shirts, and eco-luxe basics.
4. Lotus Silk – The Botanical Luxury
Lotus silk comes from the delicate fibers of lotus stems, hand-extracted and painstakingly spun. This rare silk is biodegradable and requires no pesticides or intensive processing. Its ethereal texture and subtle sheen make it a statement material for scarves, eveningwear, and artisanal pieces.
5. Econyl™ – The Regenerated Nylon
Econyl is a regenerated nylon made from ocean and landfill waste, including discarded fishing nets. It gives new life to materials that would otherwise pollute the environment. Stretchy and durable, Econyl is widely embraced for swimwear, sportswear, and modern streetwear.
We Use Sustainable Fabrics
At Odd Orchid, our garments are crafted with care using sustainable fabrics that balance durability, style, and intention. We aim to create fashion that is timeless yet modern, pieces that make sense today and still matter tomorrow. Because when you choose natural fibers, you’re not just choosing a fabric—you’re choosing a future. 