Viscose fabric, known for its softness and breathability, has been favoured in the lingerie industry for years. Its silky texture and draping qualities make it ideal for bras, panties, scarves, and nightwear. It can mimic the feel of silk at an affordable price, so many manufacturers incorporate it into their designs. Beyond lingerie, this fabric is also used in casual clothing, activewear, and home textiles. In this blog, we’ll explore viscose, its benefits, and comparison.
What is Viscose Fabric?
It is a semi-synthetic material derived from wood pulp. Often likened to natural fibres like cotton and silk, it combines comfort and elegance. Known for its softness, breathability and silky texture, it is a lightweight and skin-friendly fabric. It is ideal for bras, panties, shapewear, nightwear, and activewear. Its luxurious and gentle feel offers comfort across various garments.
Viscose vs Other Fabrics in the Lingerie Industry
People often prefer cotton and spandex over other fabrics for bras and panties. This comparison will help you understand the unique qualities of each material and guide you in choosing the ones that work best for you.
Viscose Fabric – A Comparison
Since the early 20th century, viscose has been valued in the fashion industry for its silk-like feel at a more accessible price. Over the past few decades, it has become a staple in lingerie wardrobe.
| Viscose | Cotton | Polyester | Spandex | Mesh | Lace | Modal | Satin |
| Viscose feels smooth and has a luxurious drape in a matte finish. | Soft and breathable with a slightly coarser texture. | Soft, smooth and known for durability and resistance to wrinkles. | Highly stretchable and form-fitting, providing support and elasticity. | Textured with breathability and style due to air flow. | Decorative with a textured feel. | Soft and eco-friendly. | Glossy and slightly slippery texture. |
| Viscose is ideal for bras, panties, and nightwear for its drape-y fit. | Often preferred for everyday bras and panties due to its hypoallergenic properties. | Blended with other fabrics to add durability to bra and shapewear. | Blended with other fabrics (including viscose) to stretch bras, panties, and shapewear. | It is often added as a decorative element in bras and panties. | It is often used for aesthetic purposes, adding femininity to bras and panties. | It is popular in lingerie as it tends to hold its shape better over time, making it ideal for everyday use. | It is often used in nightwear and luxury lingerie for its shiny, elegant appearance. |
| Lightweight moisture absorption properties make it suitable for low to medium-intensity workouts only. | It retains moisture, which can be uncomfortable during intense workouts. | It is ideal for high-impact sportswear due to its moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties. | It is essential in activewear for high-impact activities, providing a full range of motion and recovery. | Used in high-intensity activewear for ventilation and cooling. | Rarely used in activewear due to its delicate nature. | It is less commonly used in activewear, lacking structure for intense activities. | It is rarely used in activewear as it lacks breathability and moisture control. |
Pros of Viscose Fabric
- Soft and Comfortable—Ideal for all-day wear, viscose ensures that bras, panties, and nightwear are gentle on sensitive areas.
- Moisture Control – It allows air circulation and absorbs moisture. Prevents discomfort and irritation during extended wear and workouts.
- Flattering Fit – It conforms well to body shape, enhancing the fit and style of bras, panties, and loungewear.
- Eco-Friendly – As a semi-synthetic fabric derived from wood pulp, viscose can be more environmentally conscious than many synthetic fabrics. Numerous manufacturers are adopting sustainable production methods to cater to eco-conscious consumers.
These benefits make viscose a popular choice in modern lingerie and activewear collections.
Cons of Viscose Fabric
While viscose fabric offers many benefits, it does come with some drawbacks. It is less durable than synthetic fabrics like polyester, which may show signs of wear more quickly, especially with frequent washing. It’s also more prone to shrinking if not cared for properly, as it requires gentle washing and air drying. Overall, the softness and comfort come with a trade-off in durability, particularly for high-wear items.
Studies show that 70% of consumers prioritise softness and comfort over style. This explains why viscose is particularly appealing for lingerie. We hope you understood what viscose fabric is and why it continues to be a top pick.