Tencel vs Cotton Dresses: Which Fabric is Better for Summer?

When it comes to choosing a breathable material for summer, I often flip flop between two options: Tencel, and cotton. Both have their unique feel, and benefits. However, there are occasions where one fabric may be more advantageous than the other. In this post, I will do a brief comparison review of Tencel vs cotton dresses from Quince, and provide background on the differences between both materials.

Disclosure: This post makes use of affiliate links, which may result in a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Quince is a brand that I have tried multiple products from. They offer affordable basics at a fraction of the price by operating on a manufacturer-to-consumer supply chain model that cuts out middleman costs. You can read some of my former reviews here:

• Summer Basics Review – $30 Linen Shorts & Dress
• Cashmere Sweaters Review

Tencel vs Cotton Dresses: Which Material to Pick

When it comes to finding a comfy summer dress, understanding the difference between Tencel and cotton helps! Both fibers are made from cellulose, a structural component that makes up plant-cell walls. However, they are processed differently, which leads to varying qualities in how they feel, flow, and fit.

• Tencel: Fiber is derived from wood pulp, and creates fabric with a silky smooth, cooling feel. Tencel is sustainably produced in a ‘closed loop’ process that reduces chemical waste and byproducts.

• Cotton: Comes from the cotton plant, and is a ‘thirsty’ crop to grow. Though breathable, cotton fabrics can vary in how they feel based on quality of cotton used, and fabric construction.

Ultimately, I love both materials and I believe there is room in your closet to own both! However, knowing their differences can help with finding a dress for the right occasion.

When to Choose Tencel Over Cotton

Tencel has a silky-smooth texture, and as such, has superior drape over cotton. For dresses, you may crave this appearance more than something tailored and structured. I’ve loved all my Tencel purchases from Quince so far, and am wearing their Fit & Flare Knit Dress in both the mini and midi length.

Wearing XS in both lengths – if you have a smaller bust, I would pick the mini length as the skirt can get heavy and weigh the straps down.

You can tell by the movement of the fabric that it is quite swingy, and with that, breathable!

Another reason to choose Tencel over cotton is that it is ‘generally’ more sustainable to produce. The fiber gets converted into yarn through a dry jet-wet spinning process. In layman’s terms, there is a chemical spinning process involved to convert Tencel into yarn, and then fabric. However, a high % of chemicals gets captured and reused in the next production cycle. In contrast, cotton takes a much higher amount of water and pesticides to grow.

Finally, Tencel feels cool against the skin. This cool fabric hand along with the silky-soft texture has a slight advantage if you’re dressing for hot, and humid climate.

When to Choose Cotton Over Tencel

In the debate between Tencel vs cotton dresses, there are certainly reasons to side with the latter as well! One reason I love cotton is how low maintenance it is. Cotton is a much hardier fiber than Tencel (which, for how soft it is, can require delicate care). Some of my most-worn dresses are cotton because I love the ease of tossing them in the wash.

For an effortless go-to summer outfit, I love Quince’s smocked mini dress! The poplin fabric they use holds structure well. In the peak summertime, I prefer this quality over a fabric that clings to my skin.

Another great reason to choose cotton is there are just more designs to choose from! Cotton is the most widely used natural fiber in clothing. With that, you can expect a wider range of styles and prices. Tencel requires a few more production steps than cotton, and in some cases, can be more expensive!

One of Quince’s newer cotton dress is this Ruched Babydoll Mini Dress. Cotton is the perfect choice for this dress, as it has great structure to create volume in the puff sleeves, and a nice babydoll silhouette.

Choosing Tencel vs Cotton Dresses for Summer: A Summary

Both Tencel and cotton are excellent materials to wear for summer. There is room in your closet to own both, and if you want the best of both worlds, cotton-Tencel blends exist too! Below is a summary on the key differences (and advantages) of either material so you can make the best option:

• Tencel: Choose this fabric if you prefer something with soft, fluid drape, cooling fabric feel, and is sustainably made. Also be prepared that Tencel may require more delicate care compared to cotton.
• Cotton: Choose this fabric if you want something that is easy to maintain, versatile, and has good structure or ‘hold.’ This quality can be important in certain designs (e.g. fit & flare, puff sleeves) where volume and definite shape is needed.

Either way, know that you can’t go wrong with either material, and I hope you found these textile tips helpful!