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 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:

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.

Urban living is in a constant state of evolution. From early commutes and busy workdays to evening yoga sessions and dining out, clothing must be flexible enough to keep pace with every aspect of the day. As a result, seamless transitions in apparel have become crucial for managing the fast-moving rhythm of city life.

Adapting to Every Moment
Addressing this growing need, Eastman unveiled "Naia on the move" at the 2025 Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Spring Edition this March. This innovative take on active, urban fashion reimagines adaptability, comfort, and versatility while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability. By extending the premium features of Eastman's Naia Renew staple fiber to the light sports market, it offers unmatched ease and comfort to city dwellers navigating varied environments throughout their day.

“Naia on the move isn't just a new application—it represents a new way of living, providing comfort and flexibility from morning to night,” said Chad Doub, global segment leader for Eastman’s textiles division. He added, “Naia Renew delivers a high-performance fiber capable of regulating body temperature and managing humidity, essential for the diverse conditions encountered during a typical urban day.”

During the event, Eastman’s booth showcased how the blend of versatility and sustainability comes to life with Naia on the move. The Naia Renew staple fiber is known for its outstanding moisture control, breathability, soft texture, and lightweight nature. Its dynamic properties help ensure comfort across a range of temperatures and humidity levels—ideal for commuting, working, and engaging in light sports. In addition, its durability is notable, as the fiber resists pilling, maintains softness, and holds its shape even after frequent washing and wearing.

Attendees also had the opportunity to explore the latest applications of Naia across activewear, denim, woven materials, and home textiles—marking the most comprehensive display to date. A particular highlight was Naia Renew’s introduction into denim, offering a balance of eco-friendliness and comfort. The fiber’s adaptability was further illustrated through its use in woven wool blends for items like tailored shirts and tweed jackets. Its inclusion in home textile fillings showed Naia's expanding potential in making sustainable living part of everyday life.

“Our booth visitors were genuinely excited about the range of ways Naia Renew can be used,” Doub noted. “We’ve elevated Naia to new heights—it’s ready to accompany modern consumers throughout their busy lives. No matter the occasion, there’s a Naia solution designed to fit seamlessly.”

Endless Opportunities Ahead
Since its introduction to the Chinese market in 2020, Naia has filled a critical niche and has become instrumental in helping brands globally reach their sustainability objectives. Over the past five years, its applications have grown far beyond loungewear, branching into casual T-shirts, knits, and more.

Naia Renew stands out as a circular, eco-conscious fiber, crafted from 60% sustainably sourced wood pulp and 40% GRS-certified recycled waste material. Eastman’s molecular recycling technology enables hard-to-recycle waste to be broken down into fundamental components, creating new cellulose acetate fibers without compromising performance. This breakthrough provides a scalable solution to major environmental challenges, including waste accumulation and overuse of raw materials.