Sorona and WGSN Reveal Top Sustainable Textile Trends for 2027

Sorona, the innovative partially plant-based polymer developed by Covation Biomaterials (CovationBio), has partnered with leading global trend forecasting company WGSN to unveil emerging material trends expected to shape the future of the textile industry through 2027 and beyond. The report is based on extensive research into bio-based functional fibers, evolving consumer preferences, and worldwide market data.

Key Highlights

• The global market for bio-based materials is forecast to reach USD 285.3 billion by 2029, expanding at a 14.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), according to Market Data Forecast.
• Consumer interest in natural textiles continues to climb, with Google Trends reporting a 61% increase in searches for wool base layers and a 21% rise in searches for cotton leggings compared to the previous year.
• Three major apparel innovation themes are expected to influence product design and material selection through 2027.
• Sorona offers a commercially available, partially renewable solution that enhances natural fiber blends while delivering improved performance.

The findings come at a critical time for the fashion industry, as brands adapt to changing supply chains while responding to growing consumer demand for sustainable and high-performance materials. With the bio-based materials sector growing considerably faster than traditional textile and synthetic fiber markets, manufacturers are increasingly investing in renewable alternatives. Online search trends also reflect this shift, with growing interest in natural fibers and a steady rise in searches related to chemical-free materials worldwide.

Three Emerging Apparel Trends The report identifies three influential trends that are expected to define future apparel innovation:

• New Nature emphasizes circular design principles and the development of bio-based and hybrid fiber blends that redefine the role of natural materials.
• Climate Flex focuses on fabrics engineered to provide thermal regulation and reliable performance as consumers face increasingly unpredictable weather conditions.
• Sensory Empowerment highlights the demand for textiles that prioritize skin comfort, tactile appeal, and wellness-oriented functionality.

Sorona supports each of these trends by combining renewable, plant-based content with the performance characteristics today’s consumers value. The polymer enhances fabrics with improved stretch recovery, wrinkle resistance, breathability, durability, and long-lasting comfort. When blended with natural or cellulosic fibers, Sorona® helps overcome their inherent performance limitations while maintaining their authentic appearance, texture, and softness.

Backed by more than 25 years of collaboration with textile mills, apparel brands, designers, and manufacturing partners, Sorona has established itself as a trusted performance fiber solution. Through its Common Thread Fabric Certification Program, the company continues to support the development of premium stretch fabrics, comfort knits, and woven textiles used across luxury casualwear, ready-to-wear collections, athleisure, performance apparel, smart sportswear, uniforms, and other fashion applications.