Why We Use Spandex in Some of Our Fabrics

A common question we hear is why we incorporate spandex into some of our cotton fabrics. It’s an important consideration for shoppers seeking the purest textiles. While cotton is fantastic for casual wear like t-shirts and nightgowns, it doesn’t always provide the fit and flexibility required for more form-fitting styles.

For garments such as bras, yoga pants, and fitted tops, spandex is essential. It offers the stretch and recovery that cotton alone lacks. Without spandex, cotton can become stretched out, leading to issues like sagging in bras or baggy knees in pants after a short period of wear. A fitted top without spandex can feel restrictive and uncomfortable, lacking the necessary give to move with the wearer. This is why blending clothing spandex with organic cotton is crucial for achieving the performance needed in these types of clothing.

Our careful use of spandex allows us to create bras with wide, comfortable bands that eliminate the need for binding synthetic elastics or underwires. With spandex, these bras can gently hug the body for support without losing their shape. Similarly, our pants feature soft, wide waistbands instead of elastic that can dig in, ensuring comfort throughout the day. Thanks to spandex, our leggings and tights maintain their fit without bagging out.

While many bras are made from synthetic materials like nylon or polyester alongside spandex, we’ve spent over 30 years designing bras with organic cotton. This has led to a diverse range of styles that offer both comfort and healthy support, thanks to the inclusion of spandex.

For those who prefer a completely pure fabric, we do offer a bra made from 100% organic cotton. It provides minimal support, which is why we’ve included a molded soft cup insert for added shaping. Check out the Cotton Adjustable Bra on our website. We’re also in the process of testing a new bra made from 100% organic cotton pointelle, so stay tuned for the upcoming Pointelle Bra. Additionally, we have a selection of 100% organic cotton panties available.