Using natural products in contemporary fabric design: a critical review of trends, innovations, and future prospects (2019–2024)

The global textile industry’s significant environmental footprint has catalyzed a resurgence in the use of natural products as a sustainable alternative to synthetic chemicals. This paper presents a systematic and critical review of the trends and innovations in fabric design using natural products, focusing on peer-reviewed literature published between January 2019 and June 2024. The review holistically examines three key domains: the application of natural dyes from diverse biological sources, the development of functional finishes for properties like antimicrobial activity and UV protection, and the rise of biomimicry and bio-integrated design. Significant progress is identified in enhancing performance through advanced extraction methods, the use of bio-mordants, and nano-encapsulation techniques that improve durability. However, the field faces persistent challenges in colorfastness, reproducibility, scalability, and cost-competitiveness. This review critically evaluates these innovations using a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) framework to distinguish between laboratory-scale research and commercially viable applications. We conclude that while natural products offer a compelling pathway toward a circular textile economy, bridging the gap between current potential and widespread industrial adoption requires targeted, interdisciplinary research focused on standardization, process optimization, and developing robust, durable application technologies.