Viscose is a material consisting of rayon fabric that is made from wood pulp. Like cotton, it’s breathable and moisture-absorbent, making it a great choice for athletic and casual wear. It’s relatively inexpensive compared to other fibers and it can give lower budget labels a luxury feel. It’s the third most commonly used textile fiber in the world and is often used as an alternative to cotton and polyester, but how sustainable is it? The plant fibers of viscose itself are not toxic, however cheap manufacturing processes use intensive amounts of chemicals on the fabric, making it harmful to the environment as well as our skin. Viscose is one of the most widely used raw materials in the manufacture of fabrics due to its softness, lightness and the ease with which it can be blended with other fibers. It is often presented as an ecological and sustainable option for consumers, although the reality is very different in the vast majority of cases. Garment manufacturers are moving to sustainable material, FSC certification of the raw material helps in ensuring that the plantations will be managed as per the principles and criteria laid down by FSC. Viscose Characteristics: Of all the fibers, viscose has the most moisture and the most similar physiology to human skin. Its texture is fine and soft, very pleasant to the touch. The fiber is very absorbent, so the fabric is cool and breathable. It does not accumulate static electricity. These characteristics make it very comfortable to wear. It doesn’t fade much (especially black and dark shades), dyes well, resulting in saturated colors and silky sheen. It offers good abrasion resistance. It has a lot of weight, and wide garments have a very aesthetic drape and movement. One of the characteristics that made us choose it for our pieces. It is warm and light stable. It responds optimally to the requirements of most premium textiles.
Here a few certified sustainable brands that use eco-responsible viscose fabric such as Lenzing, Ecovero and Tencel™: Armedangels A German label, Armedangels is an eco-conscious brand that makes timeless apparel that is sustainable and fairly produced. Hoping to tackle fast fashion, they want to make fashion “fair” and make it all about trends that never go out of style with the best quality. The brand cares deeply about sourcing sustainable manmade cellulosic fibers and so they use Lenzing and Ecovero viscose to produce their airy and comfortable sweatshirts and t-shirts. GOTS certified since 2011, they continue to push for the highest ethical standards to make sustainable and everlasting garments that will always remain a fashion staple. Lenzing and Ecovero viscose is certified by the EU Ecolabel for meeting strict environmental specifications from extraction, production to disposal. Armedangels is a partner of Lenzing, which produces their viscose locally in Austria. The brand chooses to use it for their viscose fashion products as its stylish, conscious and gives their clothing a silky glow. Masai Clothing Company Aps Based in Denmark, Masai Clothing creates ethical fashion whilst also fighting to protect our forests. The brand has partnered with Canopy, an environmental organization that is internationally recognized. In addition, Masai is the first FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified Danish fashion brand. They source responsible viscose made from wood fibers via sustainable forestry practices. Masai is a brand that puts sustainability at the forefront of their business model, respecting the biodiversity and natural resources of the planet. Another Tomorrow Another Tomorrow is a New York fashion brand that pushes the boundaries on sustainable fashion. Helping women find their personal style, they also hope to guide their customers on more responsible choices when it comes to their wardrobe. Their business model is based on transparency, sustainably sourced fabrics and creating long-lasting fashion staples. Striving to match the best quality with organic materials, the brand sources from Tencel for their viscose fashion products. This decision is made to support forests, as Tencel is certified by the sustainable forestry organizations. Tencel also requires less water and energy to produce than conventional cotton, for example. Another Tomorrow aims their collections at the New York woman on the go, looking stylish without sacrificing the good of the planet. Among their creations are pleat plants, elegant blouses and crew neck dresses.