What Is Cotton? A Complete Guide to the History, Characteristics, and Uses of Cotton

Cotton is a staple textile of the fashion industry. Every closet probably houses a large percentage of cotton items, be it plain cotton, dyed cotton, or cotton mix. Cotton is a natural fiber derived from cotton plants whose use dates back to the fifth millennium B.C.

Fabric Care Guide: How Do You Care for Cotton?

Cotton can be machine-washed or dry cleaned, and the instructions vary based on the color of the fabric and its composition (such as a cotton blend). Make sure to check the label for washing instructions.

  • 1. Pretreat any stains before washing.
  • 2. Wash like colors together to prevent any bleeding. Darker colors should be washed in cold water, while lighter colors can be washed on a warm or cool cycle.
  • 3. Bleach can be used on cotton.
  • 4. Cotton does tend to shrink, so if you are sewing with cotton, make sure to pre-wash your fabrics.
  • 5. Cotton can be hung dry or tumble dried. Be aware that cotton wrinkles easily and shrinks, so if you want to avoid shrinkage, line dry and remove from the dryer quickly to avoid excess wrinkles.

For budding fashion designers, understanding the characteristics and feel of different fabrics is key. In her 20s, Diane von Furstenberg convinced a textile factory owner in Italy to let her produce her first designs. With those samples, she flew to New York City to build one of the world’s most iconic and enduring fashion brands. In her fashion design MasterClass, Diane explains how to create a visual identity, stay true to your vision, and launch your product.

Become a better fashion designer with the MasterClass Annual Membership. Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by fashion design masters including Diane von Furstenberg, Marc Jacobs, and more.

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