Sustainable Fashion: Designing Eco Friendly Fabrics From Recycled Materials

Sustainable fashion is a key driver in reducing environmental impact, and the integration of recycled materials into textile production presents a promising solution for high- performance apparel. This study focuses on the development of eco-friendly athletic gear by recycling cutting waste and eliminating the dyeing process, thereby reducing water and chemical consumption. Three fiber blends are evaluated for their potential in sustainable sportswear: 50% recycled PET + 50% recycled Modal, 50% recycled PET + 50% recycled Bamboo, and 50% recycled PET + 50% recycled Lyocell. Among these, the recycled PET + recycled Lyocell blend exhibits superior performance in terms of durability, breathability, moisture-wicking, and overall comfort. Lyocell’s natural hydrophilic properties, combined with the strength and recyclability of PET, result in a fabric with enhanced sweat absorption, quick drying, and excellent wear resistance. To further improve moisture-wicking and softness, the fabrics undergo chemical treatment with eco-friendly silicone. Performance evaluations, conducted using standardized ASTM tests, assess key attributes such as tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and long-term moisture management efficiency. The results demonstrate that the recycled PET + recycled Lyocell blend offers the most balanced combination of strength, sustainability, and wearer comfort, making it a highly viable option for next-generation eco-conscious sportswear. This study contributes to the advancement of sustainable textile innovations, promoting circular economy practices in the fashion industry while enhancing the functionality of performance wear.

Keywords— Circular economy, performance fabrics, blend ratios, eco-conscious sportswear, sustainable fashion, recycled textile.