These breezy next-gen fabrics might just replace linen for good

Let’s be honest—there comes a point in every Indian summer when even linen starts to feel like denim. You’ve rotated through the oversized shirts, the breezy cotton kurtas, the trustiest kaftans—and still, nothing stands up to the heat. Enter the new class of high-tech, low-maintenance fabrics that promise to keep you cooler than your cold brew. These fabrics are plant-powered, lab-tested, and beautifully breathable, but what makes them exciting is that they’re also incredibly wearable. Just easy, floaty pieces that feel like you’re wearing nothing—what's not to love?

From seaweed-based yarns to orange-peel silk and bamboo-soft basics, here’s your guide to six futuristic fabrics that could officially give linen a run for its money, and some ideas for how to style them.

SeaCell

The seaweed softie. Yes, this one's literally made from seaweed. SeaCell is breathable, lightweight, and rich in antioxidants (like skincare, but wearable). It feels soft like modal, but is way more planet-friendly.

How to wear it: Think matching lounge sets for hot WFH days, or relaxed shirts you’ll keep reaching for. Pair with linen shorts and strappy sandals for a day out.

Bamboo Lyocell

Meet your new everyday essential—bamboo lyocell, a certified game-changer. It’s silky, breathable, biodegradable, and absorbs moisture, basically the dream fabric for Indian weather.

How to wear it: An oversized shirt for the office, or a slouchy shirt that you’ll wear from the airport to get-togethers.

Orange fibre

"Waste, but make it chic" sounds like a joke, but orange fibre is as real as climate change. Created from citrus industry waste (think leftover orange peels), this fabric feels and looks like silk, but is far more breathable.

How to wear it: A slip dress for dinner dates, or a coordinated set you can wear to a Sunday brunch or rooftop soirée.

Hemp-Cotton

The earthy MVP—if you think hemp still equals baggy hippie pants, you’re in for a surprise. Modern hemp-cotton blends are soft, breathable, and durable, making them ideal for Indian summers, especially in the humid bits.

How to wear it: Try a boxy crop top with wide-leg trousers, or a buttoned midi dress with tan flats.

Cupro

Cupro is vegan silk that breathes: a regenerated fiber made from cotton waste, and it feels so rich and luxurious. Drapey, silky, soft, and machine washable, it really is the best kind of cheat code for Indian summers.

How to wear it: Bias-cut skirts, relaxed button-downs, or a slouchy blazer layered over a tank.

Tencel

Tencel, made from sustainably harvested wood pulp, is as soft as it gets and should be your go-to for a low-fuss summer fabric upgrade. It resists wrinkles, handles humidity well, and dries faster than cotton. Perfect for monsoon chaos and heatwave dressing.

How to wear it: Pair it with a pleated jumpsuit, co-ord lounge set, or even a maxi dress featuring puff sleeves. Add metallic flats and a bold lip.

So yes, while linen isn’t going anywhere, these futuristic fabrics are rewriting the rules of summer dressing. They’re cooler on the skin, kinder to the planet, and far more forgiving when it comes to wrinkles and wear. Next time you're shopping for a sundress, a travel co-ord, or that elusive WFH uniform, flip the tag. If you spot names like bamboo, hemp, or SeaCell, consider it your cue to invest in the future—one breathable outfit at a time.

Lead Image: B Label, Bombay Bloom, Pangaia, Ensemble India

 

Also read: Is it enough for a brand to be sustainable?

Also read: The ultimate guide to mastering resortwear this summer