Sustainable style guide: Why bamboo and hemp should be your next wardrobe staples

Stronger than cotton, softer than silk — discover why fashion’s new eco darlings are winning hearts and wardrobes (Image: One Less)

Move over cotton and silk — in the ever-growing conversation around sustainable fashion, bamboo and hemp are emerging as fabrics to watch and wear. Their rise isn’t just about being eco-friendly; it’s about offering comfort, versatility, and style without compromise.

As the demand for mindful clothing grows, these two natural powerhouses are becoming the go-to choice for fashion lovers who want clothes that look good, feel good, and do good. Hansika Chhabria, founder of the fashion label One Less, explains the magic of this pairing: "What I love about the hemp–bamboo blend is how it delivers on both performance and feel. Hemp has incredible natural strength, UV protection, and a texture that only gets better the more you wear it. Bamboo, on the other hand, is soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking — it makes the fabric feel almost ‘barely there’ on your skin. Together, they create something lighter than cotton, cool even in humidity, and versatile enough for relaxed daywear or sharper, more polished looks."

Fabric that grows with you

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That versatility is pushing hemp and bamboo beyond the ‘eco niche’ into mainstream wardrobes. Fashion pieces crafted from these fabrics move effortlessly from beach to city — you can throw on a breezy co-ord for brunch or layer it up for dinner without a single outfit change. The fabric’s natural drape ensures you look polished without trying too hard.

When it comes to styling, Hansika offers practical tips that make the most of their adaptable nature. She recommends, “For day, I love the relaxed shirt half-tucked into the airy trousers, or worn open over our tank with the shorts for a breezy, laid-back look. For evenings, you can style the trousers and shirt set buttoned up with statement earrings, or keep the shirt open over a tank and add a raffia tote and leather slides for a more elevated, coastal feel. Playing with layering and accessories — a woven belt, minimal gold hoops, or a lightweight scarf — is a great way to make the same pieces feel fresh across different settings.”

Why they beat cotton

Beyond aesthetics, bamboo and hemp fabrics have a far smaller environmental footprint. Both plants require minimal water and no pesticides, making them more sustainable than conventional cotton. They’re also naturally antibacterial, which means fewer washes — a win for your laundry load and the planet.

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Caring for them is refreshingly simple: go gentle with a cold, delicate machine wash using mild detergent, and avoid bleach or harsh chemicals that can weaken the fibres. Dry flat in the shade to preserve shape and softness, and use low-heat ironing to keep them looking crisp. The best part? The more you wear hemp–bamboo, the better it feels.