Today, more and more of us are choosing natural materials for our clothing – cotton, linen, silk, wool, suede and leather – even bamboo and other organic fibres. The trend is also increasingly popular in home décor. And why not? Natural materials have many advantages, not to mention looking fabulous!

Let’s explore the benefits of natural fibres for your home furnishings:

Simply gorgeous. There’s no doubt, synthetics can’t match the beauty of real silk, linen and cotton, whether for upholstery, draperies or accents. Quality shows. Likewise with genuine leather and suede, which have a finish and high end appeal that can’t be duplicated in manmade materials.

Improves with age. Admittedly, some natural fabrics are not as durable as synthetics, but they do age beautifully. Consider time-worn leather with its gentle sheen, linen with some distressing and softly aged cotton – these marks only enhance the material’s appearance.

Upscale look. Natural fabrics often cost more and certainly look more expensive. They have an air of ‘you’ve arrived’ that gives your home instant chic and glamour. For example, consider how a living room would be transformed by adding a fine leather sofa, silk draperies and a beautiful wool throw.

Breathable. Most natural fabrics, including suede and leather, are more breathable than synthetic alternatives – which translates to greater comfort, whether it’s warm or cold. Natural materials typically don’t cling to your body like synthetics either, which also enhances comfort.

Softer. Natural fabrics are often softer than synthetics. They are cozier and ‘gentler’ and simply feel better against your skin.

Biodegradable. Most natural fibres are biodegradable, so they’re a better choice for the environment too!

Where should you use natural fabrics?

Consider durability and usage before you purchase furnishings or accessories in these natural fabrics:

Linen: Best suited for formal spaces used by adults as it soils and wrinkles easily. Linen does, however, resist pilling and fading.

Leather: Tough and beautiful, leather is family friendly and suitable for any space.

Cotton: Provides good resistance to wear, fading and pilling. With proper treatments, it can be fairly durable. Keep in mind there is a huge variety of cottons from damasks to canvas.

Wool: Warm and durable, wool resists pilling, fading, wrinkling and soiling; best if in a blend.

Silk: Luxurious but delicate, silk is suitable for furnishings and accessories in low traffic, adult areas or possibly for draperies.

Consider furnishings and accessories upholstered in natural fabrics for your space. Environmentally friendly, beautiful, comfortable, and they look and feel amazing!