Sorona® and WGSN Identify Top Bio-Based Material Trends Shaping Fashion Through 2027
Joint trend report highlights three apparel innovation themes as demand for bio-based and natural fiber solutions continues to grow.
Sorona®, the partially bio-based polymer developed by Covation Biomaterials (CovationBio™), has collaborated with WGSN to publish a new report examining the material trends expected to shape the textile and apparel industry through 2027 and beyond.
The report evaluates bio-based functional fiber applications alongside global market and consumer data to identify emerging trends influencing apparel development across categories including athleisure and luxury ready-to-wear.
According to the report, the global bio-based materials market is projected to reach USD 285.3 billion by 2029, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.5%, based on data from Market Data Forecast.
Consumer search trends also indicate growing interest in natural materials. Data from Google Trends shows that searches for "natural fibers" continue to increase, with searches for "wool base layer" rising 61% year-over-year and "cotton leggings" increasing 21% over the same period. The report also notes that global interest in "chemical-free materials" continues to grow.
Three Material Trends for 2027
The report identifies three major trends expected to influence apparel product development through 2027:
- New Nature, focusing on circular, bio-based and hybrid fiber combinations based on evolving approaches to natural materials.
- Climate Flex, addressing increasing demand for temperature-regulating and performance-oriented fabrics suited to changing climate conditions.
- Sensory Empowerment, reflecting consumer interest in skin-safe, tactile and wellness-focused textile solutions.
Across these themes, the report highlights Sorona® as a commercially available material that combines bio-based content with performance characteristics including stretch recovery, wrinkle resistance, breathability, durability, and comfort.
Partially produced using renewable plant-based ingredients, Sorona® can be blended with natural and cellulosic fibers to enhance performance while maintaining the natural appearance and feel of those materials.
The report also highlights the company's Common Thread Fabric Certification Program and its 25-year collaboration with textile mills, brands, and designers. Through this network, Sorona® supports the development of performance stretch fabrics, restorative comfort knits, and woven textiles used in luxury casualwear, ready-to-wear, athleisure, smart sportswear, and uniforms.