If you have ever worn silk then you know why it is prized for its luxurious feel and elegance.  And what a prize it is!  Because, not only is it a winner for its aesthetic appeal, silk has also gained recognition as a sustainable fabric.  With an eye on the environment, more and more consumers are seeking textiles that are both beautiful and eco-friendly.  So, let’s get into what makes silk a sustainable choice.

First, silk is natural and biodegradable because it is a natural protein fiber produced by silkworms.  Unlike the fake stuff – that is, all synthetic fabrics – silk is fully biodegradable, meaning it breaks down naturally without leaving bad stuff in the environment.  And, when disposed of properly, silk will decompose within a few years, contributing to soil health rather than polluting it.

Another great fact that makes silk sustainable is that it comes from a renewable resource.  Silk production relies on the cultivation of mulberry trees which is what silkworms love to munch on.  These trees are resilient and require minimal water compared to other crops. But what’s especially great is that they can be grown without harmful pesticides.  And, silk farming supports local economies by providing a steady source of income for rural communities.

Another great fact is that processing silk involves fewer chemicals compared to synthetic textiles and traditional silk processing methods like hand-reeling and natural dyes minimize water and energy consumption.   In fact, at Julianna Rae, we choose to keep our silk fabric as natural as possible and do NOT use anti-wrinkle chemicals of any kind during the manufacturing process.  This is a plus for you because the chemicals in permanent press treatments and wrinkle-free finishes can pose health risks to you and the environment.

A great part of silk’s sustainability is its strength and durability. Fast fashion it is not.  Silk can last many long years when properly cared for.  Because it will last a long time you won’t need to run out to replace your favorite silk cami every year. And, think, yours may be one cami but when you add them up, it makes a real difference in reducing overall textile waste and resource consumption.

So that’s why silk is a standout as a natural fiber fabric.  When sourced responsibly and maintained with care, silk can be an eco-friendly addition to any wardrobe. And while you are becoming more conscious of the negative environmental impact of fast fashion the timeless appeal of this gorgeous fabric offers not just sophistication but sustainability too!  Stay warm out there. Spring is almost here. We’ll see you in the next blog!

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Deb Fries works with the Julianna Rae team to offer the best shopping experience for quality silk and cotton sleepwear while also writing for the blog at Juliannarae.com.