Textiles that Changed Fashion Forever: Polyester

• Polyester is very durable and is resistant to many chemicals
• This is a popular fabric in the fashion industry, as it is resistant to shrining and stretching. It is also resistant to wrinkling and abrasions
• The fibersused to create Polyester are very strong yet lightweight
• The fibersare easily dyed
• It retains its shape very well
• Polyester fabric is easy to look after and it can be washed and dried at home
• It is a quick drying fabric, so a popular choice for outdoors clothing

Polyester is used in the manufacture of many products, including clothing, home furnishings, industrial fabrics, computer and recording tapes, and electrical insulation.

Polyester has several advantages over traditional fabrics such as cotton. It does not absorb moisture, but does absorb oil; this quality makes polyester the perfect fabric for the application of water-, soil-, and fire-resistant finishes. Its low absorbency also makes it naturally resistant to stains.

Polyester clothing can be preshrunk in the finishing process, and thereafter the fabric resists shrinking and will not stretch out of shape. The fabric is easily dyeable, and not damaged by mildew. Textured polyester fibers are an effective, nonallergenic insulator, so the material is used for filling pillows, quilting, outerwear, and sleeping bags.

How did Polyester change fashion forever?

Polyester is used in outerwear because of its high durability and tenacity. It is a strong, strong fiber and consequently can withstand strong or repetitive movements. Polyester is hydrophobic which makes it ideal for garments and jackets that are to be used in wet or damn environments.