Is Corduroy Eco-Friendly? Let’s Talk Textures & Sustainability

Corduroy. Just saying the word feels nostalgic, right? It’s the fabric of retro jackets, schoolyard overalls, and now- your favourite oversized totes, cushions and floor pillows, too! But if you're trying to live a little more sustainably (without giving up on style or comfort), you're probably wondering: Is corduroy actually eco-friendly?

Let’s break it down. Fabric nerd style

So... What Is Corduroy?

Corduroy is a woven fabric made with raised “wales” (those satisfying vertical ridges). Think of it like velvet’s slightly less fussy cousin- soft, warm, textured, and durable. Typically cord is made from 100% cotton, but sometimes you’ll find it blended with polyester or elastane for stretch or structure.

If you’re shopping from brands like us at Jade and May, you’ll find natural fibre corduroy front and centre. Ours is made from 100% cotton-aka no plastic, no sneaky synthetics, just beautifully tactile fabric with substance

The Eco Credentials of Corduroy: Hit or Miss?

Here’s the tea (or should we say, textile truth):

When Corduroy Is Eco-Friendly:

• It’s made from 100% natural fibres like cotton or organic cotton

• It’s dyed responsibly (low-impact or natural dyes = gold star)

• It’s made to last. Corduroy’s strength is legendary- hello, wardrobe staple, not fast fashion casualty

• It’s made ethically. Fabric sustainability means nothing without people sustainability too

When Corduroy Isn’t So Great:

• If it contains polyester or synthetic blends—those microplastics, ugh

• If it's cheap, mass-produced, and designed for landfill

• If the cotton isn’t sourced responsibly (conventional cotton can be thirsty and chemically intensive)

Our Take at Jade and May

We love corduroy for the same reasons you probably do—it’s got a vintage soul but feels totally modern.
But we love it even more when it’s:

• Natural fibre (ours is always cotton-based)

• Ethically made (we work closely with our makers)

• Designed to live a long life, not just a season

So when we choose cord for our totes, cushions or floor pillows, we make sure it checks all the boxes- soft, stylish, and sustainably-minded

Is Corduroy Eco-Friendly?

Yes-if you shop smart. Corduroy can be an eco-friendly choice, especially when it’s made from natural fibres, produced ethically, and treated like the timeless classic it is

As with any fabric, it’s not just what it's made of, but how it’s made—and how long you’ll love it. And trust us, when you find the right cord piece? You’ll be holding onto it for years

Shop Slow. Wear Often. Love Your Layers

Want to see how we use corduroy in our collection? Check out our Black Cord Tote—big enough for books, snacks, and life. Small enough to feel like a fashion flex