Ok, so if you were around in the 70's you remember rayon as being the annoying fabric that was sort of stiff, and didn't keep you cool. No, it actually made you sweat. So no more sweatin' to the oldies rayon these days!
Most of the hippie garments I buy are almost exclusively cotton and rayon from either India or Nepal. This rayon is different and can have a few different "hands".
Let me explain...
First though, this rayon is a natural fiber, being made of wood --seriously. But it DOES go thru, I'm assuming, some chemical processes to get the finished product.
The first "hand" of rayon feels like a drapey heavier cotton. It has a lot of movement so is perfect for dresses and skirts, pants and even some tops too! One thing I like about this type of rayon is, should you be sitting and wrinkling for awhile, most of the wrinkles seem to fall out once you get up and go. This can be washed in cold water; but if there are embroidery or bead details, your garment will last longer with a cool hand washing.
The next "hand" sorta looks like voille. It can also be called viscose. This is a "fussier" hand and is usually used for designs calling for ruffles. This fabric is semi-sheer so the garments are usually lined. Hand wash this stuff in cold in a "swishing" fashion.
Finally, I buy alot of what's called in India "moss crepe". Still rayon. But this time it is nice and soft and actually feels like it's been stone washed. Lots of cute little tops and dresses are made out of this type of rayon. Cold water wash just like the others and be sure to try to work to preserve the beading or embroidery by giving it the extra care of hand washing.
Now, I'm no textile expert. These are my opinions. So if you are a textile expert, please feel free to set me straight!
