Index
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What is viscose and where does it come from?
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Viscose: a natural or artificial fabric?
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Characteristics of viscose fabric
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Advantages and disadvantages of viscose
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The difference between sustainable and conventional viscose
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EcoVero™ Viscose: the responsible version
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Viscose fabric: summer or winter?
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How to wash and iron viscose
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The most popular viscose garments on Altramoda
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Why choose sustainable viscose with Altramoda
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Frequently Asked Questions about Viscose
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A conscious choice starts with the fabric
1. What is viscose and where does it come from?
Viscose is a man-made textile fiber obtained from a natural raw material: wood cellulose . It seems contradictory, but that's precisely what makes it so interesting. The industrial process transforms tree pulp (primarily beech, eucalyptus, and bamboo) into a smooth, soft, and lustrous textile fiber.
Born as a plant-based alternative to silk, viscose has been highly valued in the clothing industry for decades. The problem? The most popular versions—those found in fast fashion —are anything but sustainable. Today, however, there are also ethical and certified versions, like the one offered by Altramoda.
2. Viscose: a natural or artificial fabric?
The short answer is: both .
Viscose is classified as a man-made fiber because it is obtained from the chemical transformation of cellulose. However, it is not synthetic like polyester, as it comes from a plant resource. Its hybrid nature makes it unique: it combines a natural base with an industrial production process.
The result is a fabric that imitates silk , breathes like cotton and falls softly like linen , but which requires attention during the production phase to avoid being harmful to the environment.
3. Characteristics of viscose fabric
Viscose is loved by those seeking versatile and comfortable fabrics. Its main characteristics include:
- Natural shine : similar to silk, but cruelty-free
- Soft to the touch : gentle on the skin
- Breathability : allows air to pass through and absorbs moisture
- Flowing drape : suits any silhouette well
- Bright colors : holds dyes well
These qualities make it perfect for light dresses , flowing skirts , cool shirts and elegant scarves .
4. Advantages and disadvantages of viscose
Pros:
- High comfort and pleasant feeling on the skin
- Elegant and refined appearance
- Also suitable for sensitive skin
- Versatility across seasons and shapes
Against:
- More delicate than other fabrics
- May shrink if washed poorly
- Some unsustainable viscose pollutes during production
This is why it is essential to distinguish between conventional viscose and sustainable viscose .
5. The difference between sustainable and conventional viscose
Conventional viscose, widely used in fast fashion, is produced through highly polluting processes. Chemicals such as caustic soda, sulfuric acid, and hydrogen sulfide are used to retard the wood. Wastewater is often not even treated and ends up in waterways.
Furthermore, the cellulose used may come from illegal logging or intensive cultivation using pesticides. The result is a fabric that appears natural but isn't , and can also be irritating to the skin.
Sustainable viscose , on the other hand:
- Comes from responsibly managed forests (FSC or PEFC)
- It is produced in facilities with wastewater treatment
- It has a significantly lower environmental impact
- It is not mixed with synthetic fibres in ethical garments
6. Viscose EcoVero™: the responsible version
One of the best alternatives is EcoVero™ viscose , developed by Lenzing in Austria. It is a certified viscose that guarantees:
- Origin from sustainable wood
- Production in low environmental impact plants
- Reduction of CO₂ emissions and water use by up to 50%
- Total traceability of the supply chain
Altramoda offers various garments in EcoVero™ viscose, ideal for those who want elegance and respect for the environment in a single choice.
7. Viscose fabric: summer or winter?
Viscose is considered a predominantly summer fabric , but not exclusively. Thanks to its breathability and lightness, it's perfect for:
- Fluttering skirts
- Long dresses
- Summer blouses
- Light scarves
However, it can also be used in winter if woven more thickly and layered with other garments. It doesn't have great thermal properties, but it's excellent for those seeking comfort and lightness year-round, or who live/work in well-heated environments even in winter.
8. How to wash and iron viscose
Many people avoid viscose because they fear it will deteriorate, but there are just a few tricks to keep it in perfect condition:
Washing:
- Prefer washing on a delicate or cold cycle (max 30°C)
- Use eco-friendly detergents
- Do not twist the garment, hang it flat to reduce the need for ironing.
Drying:
- Avoid the dryer
- Lay flat in the shade
Ironing:
- Iron inside out , at low temperature
- Use a cotton cloth between the iron and the fabric to avoid damaging it
By following these steps, your viscose will last a long time.
9. The most popular viscose garments on Altramoda
In the Altramoda catalogue you will find a selection of sustainable viscose clothing , designed for those who love comfort, beauty and awareness:
- Long dresses in EcoVero™ viscose : ideal for spring and summer
- Soft skirts in natural viscose : loose and breathable fit
- Lightweight viscose scarves : to carry with you all year round
All garments are carefully selected, made by sustainable brands and guaranteed by environmental and social certifications.
👉 Discover the collection: Sustainable viscose clothing – Altramoda
10. Why choose sustainable viscose with Altramoda
Altramoda is the first Italian store dedicated exclusively to fashion and natural cosmetics since 2009. Its viscose selection is:
- 100% sustainable and certified
- Fruit of ethical brands and transparent producers
- Suitable for those who want to make informed purchases without sacrificing style
With over 15,000 positive reviews , an engaged community, and a curated catalog, Altramoda is the ideal choice for anyone looking to add value to their wardrobe.
11. Frequently asked questions about viscose
Viscose: what kind of fabric is it?
It is an artificial fibre obtained from artificially transformed wood cellulose.
Is viscose a good fabric?
Yes, if it's sustainable. It's breathable, shiny, soft, and comfortable.
Does viscose make you sweat?
No, it has good moisture absorption capacity and is breathable.
Is viscose natural?
It has a natural origin (wood), but is industrially processed. Sustainable viscose maintains a very low environmental impact.
How do you wash viscose?
Preferably cold, by hand or in the washing machine on a delicate cycle.
How do you iron viscose?
At low temperature and inside out.
Is it a summer or winter fabric?
Mainly summer and mid-season, but can also be used in winter with other layers.
Is viscose bad for you?
Conventional water may contain chemical residues. Sustainable water is safe and certified.
12. A conscious choice starts with the fabric
Choosing sustainable viscose is a simple but powerful gesture. It means:
- Support a more ethical and transparent fashion
- Wear skin-safe clothing
- Contribute to a cleaner and more responsible world
And with Altramoda, you can do it easily and safely, knowing that every purchase is a step in the right direction.
