MAH: The Rise of Polyester and the Age of Synthetic Fabrics

In the mid-20th century, the introduction of polyester revolutionized the textile industry and marked the beginning of the synthetic fabric boom that would dominate much of modern fashion.

Polyester: The Fabric of the Masses

Polyester, a synthetic fiber developed in the 1940s, became one of the most widely used materials in the textile industry by the 1960s. Its main appeal was its durability, easy care, and low cost, making it perfect for mass production. Polyester was resistant to wrinkles, stains, and shrinking, which made it a practical choice for busy, modern lifestyles.

Polyester blends—combined with natural fibers like cotton, wool, and silk—also gained popularity, offering the benefits of synthetic fabrics while maintaining the comfort of natural fibers. Polyester suits, shirts, and dresses became ubiquitous, particularly in the 1970s when synthetic fabrics began to dominate mainstream fashion. "Polyester leisure suits" became iconic during the disco era, marking a high point for synthetic materials in fashion.