Cotton is a soft and mushy fiber belonging to the Malvaceae family. Industries use fine cotton after thorough processing. It has many uses in different industries. The role of cotton in the fashion industry is paramount. It is highly known for its organic nature. It is devoid of synthetic fabrics and is airy and comfortable to wear.

For many years now, cotton has been used to make cotton silk sarees, kurtas for women and men, and other western garments. Earlier cotton was merely perceived as a fabric known for its comfort. But with progressive times, its image has changed. People are now wearing cotton made outfits for formal and informal events.

Many leading Bollywood actresses have donned cotton silk sarees for supreme events. Hence it is safe to say that the use of cotton has broadened. Despite cotton’s stiff look, it still possesses an unmatched panache and is pocket-friendly. These outfits are chic and lightweight.

They can also amp up cotton outfits by blending them with different motifs and embroideries. The role of cotton in sustainable fashion is also imperative. Many brands are endorsing its use because it does not leave an environmental footprint upon burning and is eco-friendly.

HISTORY

The early evidence that suggested the presence of cotton occurred in Mehrgarh, India, 5000 BC ago. The Indus Valley Civilization flourished with the cultivation of cotton. This gave people a rich culture, textiles, and a source of clothing.

Around 1500 BC, it served as a medium for barter exchange, and by middle changes, cotton was exported to Eastern and European markets.

Subsequently, the establishment of cotton mills occurred. India witnessed its first cotton mill near Kolkata in 1818. They believed the second mill to be the real foundation of the modern cotton industry. They named it Bombay Spinning and Weaving Company.

The 1870s witnessed the real expansion of the textile industry in India. The following years were brimming with opportunities and growth. Production of cotton in India increased from 119 million in 1991 to 345 million in 2017. The product primarily comes from Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. Approximately 74% of this used to make apparel.

USES OF COTTON

Cotton has multiple uses contingent on the industry. Manufacturing T-shirts primarily occurs with cotton.  And true jeans are 100% cotton. Sarees can either be 100% cotton or made with a blend. Manufacturing T-shirts occurs mostly with cotton. Manufacturers use cotton to make bathrobes, bathmats, blankets, duvets, and other things.

However, its role in fashion is essential. We can use it not only for daily wear clothing but also white stepping out. Its penchant for being a breathable fabric has opened many doors. Manufacturing of cotton outfits can now transpire as beach attires or even as beautiful sarees.

It has a universal appeal. Cotton blends like jute-cotton, khadi-cotton, and cotton-silk are gaining significant traction. It outlives other fabrics because of its pure nature. Dyeing cotton is also fundamental and looks phenomenal.

Sarees like Chanderi, jamdani, Maheshwari, and Naraynpet are cotton in nature. They are prepossessing and contain a very artsy look. Sweatpants are the uniform of today’s fashion. Many companies are introducing cotton blend sweat pants dyed in a rather spiffy style. They bear comfort and reflect modernism.

Endorsement of cotton has taken place by brands like H&M. In the spirit of promoting sustainability; many other brands are also lawyering its use. Tiered cotton dresses, maxis, coordinate sets, and other chic dresses blend with contemporary fashion.

One can spot them on runways and among celebrity styles. They bring a level of unmatched comfort and grace to the look. Renge is another conscious brand that employs cotton.

Brands like Nicobar, Okhai, Cotton world, House of Indya, No nasties, Fab India and  Jaypore, are famous for their indie cotton collections. They are alluring and easy-to-maintain. Having said that, the style ingredient remains uncompromised. They make desirable patterns and are highly proficient.

Their work mostly remains minimal and refreshing to look at. Good Earth is a luxury brand that is beloved in India. They only use natural fabrics and still manage to come up with exciting designs. The role of cotton in fashion goes hand-in-hand. One cannot exist without the other.

CONCLUSION

To conclude, cotton is an imminent part of the fashion industry. Cotton has always been a revered fabric. Its importance has grown, crediting the increased awareness among people. The earlier conceited notions of considering cotton to be a worn-at-home outfit are debunked and replaced with outgoing use.