Cotton shows off its diversity
Cotton is the unsung hero of the fabric world. Thanks to different fiber types and weaves, it can be your go-to fabric for almost every occasion – oxford cloth for work, denim for the weekend and sateen for evenings. Real Simple rounds up the best warm-weather cottons so you’ll know which types will keep you coolest, last the longest and feel the softest.
Seersucker
Synonymous with summer suiting, seersucker is a lightweight fabric characterized by alternating puckered and smooth sections, which hide wrinkles.
Real Simple pick: Dockers Cropped Jacket, $58
A sporty cropped cut and a nontraditional color palette distinguish this fully lined jacket. Comes in four color combinations.
To buy: www.dockers.com.
Jersey
A knit fabric used primarily in T-shirts and sheets, jersey is known for its elasticity, drape and affordability.
Real Simple pick: American Apparel Short-Sleeve Tee Shirt, $15
This slim-fit tee is a summer staple you can afford to stockpile – and there are more than 30 colors to choose from.
To buy: www.americanapparelstore.com.
Oxford
A staple of the 9-to-5 set, this soft shirting fabric is often embellished with stripes or woven effects.
Real Simple pick: Brooks Brothers Sleeveless Shirt, $65
Great for everyday use, this top can be machine washed and tumble dried, and it requires no ironing to keep it wrinkle-free.
To buy: www.brooksbrothers.com.
Pima
Distinguished by its sheerness and strength, pima is an extra-long cotton grown mostly in the Southwest and used for sheets and casual shirts.
Real Simple pick: Three Dots Sleeveless Tee Shirt, $68
Keep your cool in this ultra-lightweight V-necked tank. Comes in 16 colors.
To buy: (323) 782-0139 for store locations.
Egyptian
Call it the cashmere of cotton. Strong yet fine, this Egyptian-grown fiber is used to create high-end dress shirts and sheets.
Thomas Pink Rosa Stripe Button-Down, $140
Real Simple pick: A white collar and cuffs add to the crispness of this striped shirt, which can be worn to work or on the weekend.
To buy: (212) 838-1928.
Sea Island
Once grown in Sea Island, Ga., this expensive, silky fiber – used for shirts, sweaters and towels – is now harvested in the West Indies (and is in short supply).
Real Simple pick: John Smedley Elspeth Cardigan, $195
This cardigan is part of a large Sea Island collection, made by a company that has specialized in the cotton for more that 220 years. Available in four colors.
To buy: Jane, (212) 772-7710.
Denim
Although it’s a modern favorite, this sturdy twill fabric, most often woven with indigo blue and gray or white yarns, has been in use since the late 18th century.
Real Simple pick: Eddie Bauer Novelty Denim Trousers, $68
Thanks to trouser styling and a dark wash, these tab-front jeans are especially easy to dress up.
To buy: www.eddiebauer.com.
Twill
Used for chinos and more, twill is a woven fabric that features distinctive diagonal lines on its face and a bit of stretch, making it ideal for form-fitting garments.
Real Simple pick: Gap Twill Pants, $42.50
These khakis flatter with a rise that’s not too low and a leg cut that is slightly flared.
Also available in camel, stone, white and leek green.
To buy: www.gap.com.
Voile
This lightweight, plain-weave fabric has a sheer look and a slightly crisp feel. Commonly used for women’s blouses, dresses and curtains.
Real Simple pick: Matta NY Anika Skirt, $225
This appliquéd skirt features a full and flattering cut, with a wide, tummy-hiding waistband. Also in aqua, lime, white and black.
To buy: (212) 343-9399.
Sateen
Sateen’s strength has made it the perfect fabric for military clothing, including camouflage, but its smooth satin finish gives it a dressy allure.
Real Simple pick: J.Crew Molly Dress, $395
Formal without being fussy, this empire-waisted dress is perfect for dinners out and special occasions. Also in ivory, navy and brown.
To buy: (800) 562-0258.
Terry cloth
A staple for towels, robes and beachwear, terry cloth is a woven or knitted material with moisture-absorbing loop piles covering one or both sides.
Real Simple pick: Restoration Hardware Paradigm Bath Robe, $79
Who hasn’t thought of swiping the robe from a four-star hotel? Instead, claim this one for yourself. Monogramming available for $6.
To buy: www.restorationhardware.com.