Our fabric (And Why You’ll Love It)

Our fabric (And Why You’ll Love It)

The fabric that fits your life—effortless, elegant, and ready for wherever you drift next.

At Oaky Coast, we design clothing that invites ease—pieces that move with you from coastlines to cocktails, from quiet mornings to sunlit escapes. And one of the most essential materials in our collections is polyester.

We know what you might be thinking: Polyester? Isn’t that... synthetic?
It is. But it’s also high-performing, modern, and deeply misunderstood.

In this post, we’ll walk you through why we use polyester in many of our garments, the science and style behind the choice, and how today’s polyester is nothing like the fabric of the past. We’ll also share the challenges—and how we design around them. Because informed choices are beautiful ones.


The Modern Strength of Polyester

Today’s polyester is engineered to do what many natural fibers can’t. Here’s why it works so well for the Oaky Coast lifestyle:

1. Wrinkle-Resistant & Travel-Friendly

Polyester naturally resists creasing and holds its shape—even after hours of wear or days in a suitcase. That means your favorite Oaky Coast dress stays smooth and polished without ironing.

2. Lightweight, Durable & Long-Lasting

Despite being soft and airy, polyester is incredibly strong. It resists stretching, tearing, and fading far better than most natural fibers, making it perfect for clothing that’s worn often and loved for years.

3. Quick-Drying & Beach-Approved

Polyester doesn’t hold moisture. It dries fast and wicks away water, making it ideal for humid climates, poolside lounging, and spontaneous dips in the sea.

4. Color-Rich & Fade-Resistant

Polyester absorbs dye in a way that keeps colors bright and bold—even after sun exposure or repeated washes.


The Honest Truth: What About the Downsides?

We believe in designing intentionally and speaking transparently. Polyester isn’t perfect—but we don’t see that as a reason to avoid it. Instead, we’ve leaned into smart solutions that turn potential downsides into thoughtful features.

It’s Not Biodegradable—But It’s Built to Last

We create garments designed for years of wear, not just one season. And we're actively exploring recycled polyester (rPET) options that turn existing plastic waste into beautiful, long-lasting clothing.

→ You benefit from: Longer-lasting clothes = less waste. Sustainability starts with wearing what lasts.

We Design for Airflow

Old-school polyester could feel stuffy. That’s where design and weave come in.

Lightweight cuts, open backs, slits, and soft drapes. Plus, modern moisture-wicking weaves that feel like air.

Natural Feel

Cheap polyester can feel plasticky. We don’t use that.

We source soft-touch finishes like satin, crepe, and sueded polyester that mimic the elegance of silk—without the fragility.

It Can Get Static—But Not With Our Silhouettes

Polyester can generate static in dry conditions.

→ Our solution: Free-flowing silhouettes + natural styling tricks like misting or layering with cotton help keep everything floating beautifully.


Ease Is the New Luxury

We don’t believe in choosing between beauty and practicality. We believe in refining both.

Polyester lets us design clothing that travels easily, wears beautifully, and holds up to the adventure of life. It’s not about what the fabric is—it’s about what it lets you do:
Move freely. Dress quickly. Live beautifully.

So if you’ve ever questioned polyester, you’re not alone. But with the right fabric, the right cut, and the right purpose, you might just fall in love with it.


Silk vs. Polyester: A Quick Word

We love silk—it’s timeless, beautiful, and biodegradable. But it also wrinkles easily, stains, and weakens when wet. For high-maintenance elegance, silk wins.
But for real life, polyester lets us create pieces you can actually live in—on the beach, on a plane, or in a suitcase.


Shop the Look

Explore our latest flowy, beach-to-bar-ready pieces crafted in soft, breathable polyester:
Shop New Arrivals →


Want First Access to Sustainable Updates?

Join the Drift Club to hear about recycled fabric launches, styling tips, and early access to our next coastal drop.
Join the Drift Club →

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