Fabric Guide – Pick the Right Materials for Every Outfit
When you shop for a hoodie, leggings or an evening dress, the fabric tells you more than the label. It decides how cool you feel, how long the piece lasts and whether it looks cheap or premium. In this guide we break down the most common fabrics you’ll meet on our site and give you quick rules of thumb so you stop guessing and start buying with confidence.
Everyday Fabrics: What Works Best?
Hoodies. Most hoodies are cotton‑blend, often cotton‑polyester. Cotton gives softness, polyester adds shape and dries fast. If you want a hoodie that stays fluffy after a wash, look for a 80/20 cotton‑poly mix. Heavy weight (12‑16 oz) is great for colder days, while a lighter 8‑10 oz works for mild weather. Check the tag for “ring‑spun” – that means the yarn is softer and lasts longer.
Leggings. The secret is stretch. A blend of polyester, nylon and spandex (usually 75/20/5) provides a smooth feel and keeps the leggings from sagging. If you’re over 70 and want comfort, choose a higher cotton content (like 60% cotton, 35% polyester, 5% spandex). It feels breathable and still offers the needed stretch for movement.
Evening Dresses. Here the fabric is the star. Silk, satin, chiffon and velvet each give a different vibe. Silk drapes beautifully and feels cool, but it needs delicate care. Satin, often polyester or a silk blend, mimics the shine without the high price tag. Chiffon is lightweight and perfect for flowy styles, while velvet adds depth for winter events. Pick based on the event’s temperature and how formal you want to appear.
Everyday T‑Shirts. Look for ringspun cotton or a cotton‑bamboo mix. These fabrics stay soft after multiple washes. A small percentage of elastane (2‑5%) adds a bit of stretch so the shirt keeps its shape. Avoid “combed” cotton alone – it can feel stiff after a few washes.
Caring for Your Fabrics
Even the best fabric will suffer if you treat it wrong. For cotton blends, wash cold and tumble dry low to keep the fibers from shrinking. Polyester and nylon love a gentle cycle and don’t mind a bit of tumble heat. Silk and satin need hand‑wash or a delicate cycle with a mesh bag, and always air‑dry to avoid shine loss. When you store a velvet dress, keep it in a breathable garment bag to prevent crushing the pile.
Stains are another pain point. Protein‑based stains (sweat, blood) work best with cold water and an enzyme‑based detergent. Oil‑based stains (food, grease) need a pre‑treat with dish soap before washing. Acting fast saves you from a permanent mark.
Finally, remember that “fabric” isn’t just a material – it’s the experience of wearing it. Feel the cloth before you buy, think about the climate you’ll wear it in, and follow the simple care steps above. You’ll get more comfort, a longer wardrobe life, and a look that actually matches the occasion.
Ready to upgrade your closet? Use these fabric tips as a quick checklist the next time you shop on JR Wax & Tune. You’ll pick pieces that not only look great but also feel right, no matter your age or style.
-
Not every hoodie is worth your cash, but the signs of a high-quality one are easy to spot if you know what to look for. This guide goes beyond brands and trends to break down the real indicators—like stitching and fabric—that separate the best hoodies from the rest. You'll get smart tips for checking a hoodie in-store or online, plus no-nonsense advice on what makes a hoodie last. Forget fancy marketing; you’ll learn to trust your eyes and hands. Get ready to know exactly what you're buying.
-
Tired of t-shirts wearing out after just a few washes? This article cuts through confusing marketing claims and gets right to the facts about what really makes a t-shirt last. We break down the different fabrics, stitching styles, and shopping tips you need to know. Learn which materials, brands, and care methods actually hold up. Buying smarter means fewer trips back to the store.