Bamboo Cotton Silk
Bamboo silk is extracted and processed using bamboo
stalks. When spun into yarn using specifi c techniques,
it can even be softer than silk! Its production is cheaper
and more environmentally sustainable. This fabric is
thermal regulating, moisture balancing, breathable and
also naturally anti-bacterial.
Art silk or Artificial Silk
Made from rayon, nylon, bamboo viscose or other
polyester and man-made material blends, it looks
and feels as grand as animal-derived silk. The very
same texture, drape and qualities of traditional silk are
retained.
Viscose Rayon
Viscose, also known as viscose rayon, is an organic
eco-friendly textile made from regenerated cellulose
fi bre. When blended with synthetic fi bres, it becomes a
great alternative to silk.
Mercerized Cotton and/or Poly-Cotton
Mercerization of cotton or cotton blended with other
art/polyester materials adds lustre, colour, strength,
smoothness, resistance to the fabric and also reduces
lint. Moreover, they have slight sheen just like silk.
Polyester fabrics
Artifi cial fabrics like satin, nylon blends look like silk
particularly in deep colours and ethnic prints. They are
cheap, durable and drape well.
Many International designers like Real Fake by Twins
Abigail and Lavinia Bakker, Rombaut in Paris, and
Australian brand Bamboo Blonde have successfully
used these cruelty-free fabrics. Even in India, there
are many local fabric stores that stock alternatives
to silk and designers who custom make clothes with
artifi cial silk. They are easily available in local malls and
markets, and usually much cheaper than real silk.So this festive season, why not support cruelty-free
fashion. There are a ton of websites such as Flipkart,
Myntra and Amazon that have a myriad of vegan-
friendly silk alternatives. While shopping look up the
descriptions to see just what the saree and blouse are
made up of, you’ll be surprised but the majority will be
faux-silk.Spread good vibes this festive season by gifting
someone a beautiful faux silk sari, with a handwritten
note about why silk is cruel, we’re sure they will love
the gift and the sentiment. Use these alternatives in
your wardrobe not only because they are pocket-
friendly but also because they don’t compromise on
good fashion and cruelty-free and won’t play on your
conscience.