Short answer?
Yes, it matters more than you might think.
Most people focus on the design. Colors, logos, the fit. But the fabric is what your team actually wears all day. If it is too uncomfortable to wear, the “perfect design” doesn’t even matter anymore.
Let’s break it down.
Why the Wrong Fabric Can Be a Big Problem
Here’s what can happen when fabric isn’t chosen carefully
It gets hot and sweaty. Some fabrics trap heat and don’t let the skin breathe. Not ideal if your team is moving around all day.
It wears out too fast. Cheaper materials might seem like a good idea in the beginning, but they fade, shrink, or tear way too soon.
It doesn’t fit well. Some fabrics lose shape over time or stretch weirdly, making uniforms look worn out fast.
Prints and logos don’t last. Not all fabrics hold prints the same way. Your logo might fade or peel off sooner than expected.
And most importantly
It kills confidence. No one feels good wearing an uncomfortable fit.
So What Should You Actually Go For?
Here’s a quick breakdown based on what your team might need
Breathability. Cotton blends and dri-fit options are perfect when staying cool is a priority.
Durability. Polyester is a solid choice if you need something that holds up over time.
Flexibility. A touch of spandex can make a big difference for jobs that involve a lot of movement.
Shape retention. Some fabrics hold structure better than others, making them great for front-facing staff.
Think of it this way
Your team’s tasks should guide your fabric choice. Are they constantly on their feet? In the kitchen? Outdoors? At a desk?
The right fabric supports their role. It doesn’t work against it.
Can You Actually Choose the Fabric You Want?
Yes. But here’s the thing. Not every uniform company makes that process easy.
Some places just ask you to pick a design and color and leave the rest to them. At JustLabs, we do it differently.
We walk you through the fabric part just like we do the design part. Because honestly, what’s the point of a great-looking uniform if no one wants to wear it?
We ask you the real questions about your work, your routine and much more to make sure your uniform not only looks good on screen. We want you to feel good in it too.
Best Fabrics Based on Industry
Not sure what would even work best for your team? Here’s a quick cheat sheet
Cafés and restaurants
Cotton blends win here. They’re breathable, lightweight, and easy to wash which you’ll need after those back-to-back shifts.
Sports teams
Moisture-wicking fabrics like dri-fit or poly blends are ideal. They don’t cling when you sweat and allow full movement.
Retail and customer-facing roles
Structured poly cotton blends give off a clean, crisp look and hold shape better which is great for creating a polished impression.
Delivery staff or field workers
Fabrics with a little stretch like poly spandex blends are flexible, comfy, and tough enough to handle daily wear and tear.
We’ve helped hundreds of teams across different industries at JustLabs, so if you’re stuck, we’ll guide you through what’s worked best in real-world settings.
Still Unsure What Fabric to Go With?
Totally normal. Picking fabric isn’t something you do every day. But here’s how you can figure it out
Order samples first
Touch it, try it, wash it. That’s the only way to really know what works best.
Involve your team
Ask your staff or teammates what they prefer. They’re the ones wearing it. Their input matters.
Talk to us
At JustLabs, we’re not just about making uniforms. We’re about making good uniforms. The kind people look forward to wearing.
We’ll walk you through what fabric makes sense for your setup, your job type, and your priorities.