If you’ve ever looked at a clothing label and wondered what lyocell, modal, or viscose actually are, you’re not alone.
These fabrics aren’t quite natural, but they aren’t fully synthetic either. Instead, they fall into a category known as semi-synthetic fabrics.
At Sustainably Chic, we often recommend responsibly made semi-synthetic fibers as an alternative to conventional synthetic fabrics. While they aren’t perfect, many offer a balance of softness, breathability, and lower environmental impact; especially when they’re produced using more sustainable methods.
Here’s what you should know before adding them to your wardrobe…
What Are Semi-Synthetic Fabrics?
Semi-synthetic fabrics are fibers made from natural plant materials that are chemically processed into fabric. Unlike synthetic fabrics, which are made from fossil fuels, semi-synthetic fibers begin with renewable resources such as wood pulp or other cellulose-rich plants.
During manufacturing, the cellulose is dissolved and transformed into new fibers that can be spun into yarn and woven into fabric. Because they start with natural materials but require chemical processing, they’re considered somewhere between natural and synthetic fabrics.
How Are Semi-Synthetic Fabrics Made?
Although the manufacturing process varies by fiber, it generally follows these steps:
- Wood or plant material is harvested.
- Cellulose is extracted from the plant.
- The cellulose is dissolved using chemicals.
- The solution is spun into fibers.
- The fibers are washed, dried, and turned into fabric.
The biggest difference between various semi-synthetic fabrics lies in how the chemicals are managed during production. Some manufacturing systems recover and reuse most of the solvents, while others release more pollution into the environment.
Common Types of Semi-Synthetic Fabrics
1. Lyocell (TENCEL™ most known)
TENCEL™ Lyocell is one of the most sustainable semi-synthetic fibers currently available. It’s made from responsibly sourced wood pulp and produced using a closed-loop manufacturing process, which recovers and reuses the vast majority of the solvent used to create the fiber.
Best known for:
- Soft feel
- Breathability
- Moisture management
- Wrinkle resistance
- Lower-impact production
This is one of our favorite alternatives to conventional synthetic fabrics.
2. Modal
Modal is another regenerated cellulose fiber made primarily from beech trees. It’s known for being exceptionally soft and resistant to shrinking. Responsibly produced modal can be a good option, especially when manufacturers are transparent about sourcing and production practices.
Best known for:
- Softness
- Lightweight feel
- Stretch
- Breathability
3. Viscose (Rayon)
Viscose (a popular type of rayon) is one of the oldest regenerated fibers. Like other semi-synthetics, it’s made from wood pulp, but traditional viscose production often relies on harsh chemicals and may contribute to air and water pollution if not properly managed.
Not all viscose is created equally. Some manufacturers use cleaner production methods and responsibly sourced forests, while others do not. When buying viscose, it’s worth looking for brands that prioritize transparency and responsible forestry.
4. Bamboo Viscose
Many people assume bamboo clothing is one of the most sustainable fabric choices because bamboo grows quickly without requiring large amounts of water or pesticides. However, most bamboo clothing isn’t simply made from bamboo fibers.
Instead, it’s typically bamboo viscose, meaning the bamboo is chemically processed into regenerated cellulose fibers using a method similar to conventional viscose. The sustainability of bamboo viscose depends largely on how it’s produced.
While it can be incredibly soft and breathable, we generally prefer fibers like TENCEL™ Lyocell because of their more environmentally responsible manufacturing process. If you can find bamboo lyocell, we love that one, as well!
5. Cupro
Cupro is a semi-synthetic fabric made from cotton linter; the fine, silky fibers that surround cotton seeds and would otherwise be considered a byproduct of cotton production. These fibers are dissolved and regenerated into a smooth, lightweight textile that is often compared to silk.
Cupro is known for its soft feel, elegant drape, and breathable nature, making it a popular choice for dresses, blouses, linings, and lightweight separates. It can be a more resourceful option than some other fabrics because it makes use of cotton waste that might otherwise be discarded.
However, like other regenerated cellulose fibers, cupro undergoes a chemical manufacturing process. The overall environmental impact depends heavily on how the fiber is produced and whether the manufacturer uses closed-loop systems to recover and reuse solvents and water.
When shopping for cupro clothing, look for brands that are transparent about their manufacturing processes and prioritize responsible production practices.
Best for:
- Dresses
- Blouses
- Skirts
- Lightweight layers
- Clothing with a silky drape
Are Semi-Synthetic Fabrics Sustainable?
The answer depends on the specific fiber and how it’s made. Some semi-synthetic fabrics are among the more sustainable options available, while others have significant environmental concerns.
More Sustainable Options
- TENCEL™ Lyocell
- Responsibly produced modal
- FSC-certified wood pulp
- Closed-loop manufacturing systems
Less Sustainable Options
- Conventionally produced viscose
- Poorly sourced bamboo viscose
- Fibers made from unsustainably harvested forests
- Manufacturing processes with little chemical recovery
Looking beyond the fabric name can help you better understand its overall impact.
Semi-Synthetic vs. Natural Fabrics
Natural fabrics come directly from plants or animals with relatively minimal processing.
Examples include:
- Organic cotton
- Linen
- Hemp
- Wool
- Silk
Semi-synthetic fabrics begin with natural materials but undergo significant chemical processing before becoming wearable textiles. Both categories often offer good breathability and comfort, but natural fibers typically require fewer industrial processing steps.
Semi-Synthetic vs. Synthetic Fabrics
This distinction often causes confusion.
Semi-Synthetic Fabrics
- Made from wood pulp or plant cellulose
- Renewable raw materials
- Chemically processed
- Usually biodegradable under the right conditions
Synthetic Fabrics
- Made from petroleum
- Plastic-based fibers
- Non-renewable resources
- Not biodegradable
- Shed plastic microfibers
Although semi-synthetics involve chemical processing, they generally don’t contribute to plastic microfiber pollution because they aren’t made from petroleum-based plastics.
Do Semi-Synthetic Fabrics Shed Microplastics?
One of the biggest advantages of semi-synthetic fabrics is that they are not plastic fibers. Unlike polyester, nylon, and acrylic, regenerated cellulose fibers do not release plastic microfibers into waterways during washing.
However, they may still shed tiny cellulose fibers over time. These are different from persistent plastic microfibers and generally break down much more readily in the environment.
Are Semi-Synthetic Fabrics Breathable?
Yes. Many semi-synthetic fabrics are known for being lightweight and breathable.
They’re commonly used in:
- Dresses (TENCEL dress by Toad & Co pictured)
- Blouses
- Pajamas
- Loungewear
- Underwear
- Sheets
- Baby clothing
TENCEL™ Lyocell and modal are especially popular because they feel cool against the skin and drape beautifully.
What Certifications Should You Look For?
If you’re shopping for semi-synthetic fabrics, these certifications can provide additional confidence:
FSC®
The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®) certification helps ensure wood pulp comes from responsibly managed forests.
OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100
Tests finished textiles for hundreds of potentially harmful substances.
EU Ecolabel
Recognizes products meeting strict environmental standards throughout production.
Which Semi-Synthetic Fabrics Do We Recommend?
At Sustainably Chic, we generally prioritize:
- TENCEL™ Lyocell
- Responsibly produced modal (look for micro modal)
- Certified viscose from transparent manufacturers
We’re more cautious with conventional viscose and bamboo viscose when brands don’t provide information about sourcing or manufacturing. Whenever possible, we also like to see these fibers blended with natural materials such as organic cotton, linen, or hemp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are semi-synthetic fabrics plastic?
No. Semi-synthetic fabrics are made from plant-based cellulose rather than petroleum, so they are not considered plastic fibers.
Is TENCEL™ a semi-synthetic fabric?
Yes. TENCEL™ Lyocell is a semi-synthetic fiber made from wood pulp using a closed-loop manufacturing process.
Is bamboo fabric natural?
Most bamboo clothing is actually bamboo viscose, which is a semi-synthetic fabric. While it starts as bamboo, it undergoes significant chemical processing before becoming fabric.
Are semi-synthetic fabrics biodegradable?
Many semi-synthetic fibers are biodegradable under the right conditions because they are cellulose-based. However, dyes, finishes, and fabric blends can affect how they break down.
Are semi-synthetic fabrics better than polyester?
For many everyday clothing items, they can be. Semi-synthetic fabrics are generally softer, more breathable, and don’t shed plastic microfibers like polyester. However, their overall sustainability depends on how they’re sourced and manufactured.
Semi-synthetic fabrics bridge the gap between natural and synthetic fibers. They’re made from renewable plant materials but require chemical processing to become wearable textiles.
While not all semi-synthetic fabrics are equally sustainable, options like TENCEL™ Lyocell and responsibly produced modal are among our favorite alternatives to conventional synthetic fabrics. They offer the softness and performance many people love without relying on fossil fuel-based plastics.
As with any fabric, the best choice often comes down to looking beyond the label. Consider how the fiber was sourced, how it was processed, and whether the brand is transparent about its manufacturing practices. Choosing higher-quality materials (& wearing them for years to come) is one of the most impactful steps toward building a more sustainable wardrobe ♡
