When Did Synthetic Fabrics Become the Enemy?

A growing chunk of shoppers are moving away from synthetic fabrics such as nylon, acrylic, polyester and spandex, even though these materials have long been prized for durability, machine washability and garment shape. The shift is partly about taste and fast-fashion economics—some brands rely heavily on synthetics to keep prices down—and partly tied to wellness culture’s growing attention to “microplastics.” Scientists have found tiny plastic particles in human bodies, and preliminary research has explored possible links to conditions including cardiovascular disease, though experts say a direct causal relationship hasn’t been established. The anti-synthetics message has been amplified by influencers and activists, turning avoidance into a status signal.