The origins of polyester began in the duPont laboratory of W.H. Carothers. While working on his experiments with a group of polymers formed by combining alcohols and carboxyl acids, the basis for polyester fabric, Mr. Carothers discovered nylon. Five years later in 1951, polyester made its debut to the American public as the “Miracle Fabric.”
The public embraced the high-quality polyester noting that it was wrinkle resistant, didn’t fade or shrink when washed, and was very durable. Unlike cotton, its price didn’t fluctuate with the harvest yield and market. Polyester became the super fabric of the apparel industry.
As years went on, the pros and cons of cotton versus polyester were hotly debated. Cotton enthusiasts exclaimed that cotton was easier to dye, breathable, soft and strong, and great for sensitive skin. On the flip side, the polyester supporters claimed 100% polyester was durable, dried quickly, had less fading, less shrinkage, and was wrinkle free.
Today 100% Polyester fabric is widely accepted as a fabric for casual wear, work clothes, sports apparel, and high fashion design. The choice is not limited to either 100% cotton or 100% polyester, as blending both creates fabrics that offer the best of both worlds.