How Our Fabrics Feel
Understanding comfort, fit, and real-life wear at Ruthie’s Rack
At Ruthie’s Rack, we don’t just list fabric content — we curate for how clothing actually feels on a real body. This guide explains what our most common fabric blends feel like, how they behave when worn, and what you can expect in terms of comfort, stretch, breathability, and everyday performance.
If you have sensitive skin, prefer non-clingy fits, or live in a colder climate like Alaska, this page is for you.
Rayon / Spandex Blends
Soft, drapey, and flattering
Rayon-spandex fabrics are known for their silky-smooth hand feel and beautiful drape. They move easily with your body and feel cool and soft against the skin.
What to expect
- Very soft and smooth (great for sensitive skin)
- Excellent stretch and recovery
- Skims the body without clinging
- Breathable for all-day wear
- Flattering on bust and hips
These blends are ideal for tees, dresses, and pieces meant to feel fluid and comfortable without feeling sloppy.
Cotton / Polyester / Spandex Blends
Soft, breathable, and everyday-friendly
This is one of our most versatile and best-loved blends. Cotton adds breathability, polyester adds durability and wrinkle resistance, and spandex adds stretch.
What to expect
- Soft, brushed hand feel
- Lightweight but not sheer
- Moderate stretch for comfort
- Holds its shape throughout the day
- Wrinkle-resistant and travel-friendly
- Comfortable for layering
This blend is a workhorse — great for tops, button-downs, casual dresses, and anything meant to be worn from morning to night.
Polyester / Spandex (Hoodies, Athleisure & Cozy Pieces)
Soft, cozy, and easy care
This blend is commonly used in hoodies, lounge sets, and athleisure. It offers warmth without heaviness and keeps its shape well.
What to expect
- Soft inside feel (not scratchy)
- Cozy without bulky weight
- Good stretch and flexibility
- Excellent shape retention
- Easy care and quick drying
- Breathable for indoor wear
Perfect for layering, travel days, and cozy casual outfits that still look put-together.
Acrylic Knits
Lightweight warmth without itch
Acrylic knits are used when we want the warmth and look of wool without the itch. These pieces are especially popular for sweaters and cardigans.
What to expect
- Lightweight warmth
- Soft, non-itchy feel
- Relaxed, easy drape
- Open knit allows airflow
- Comfortable for layering
These are great for sensitive skin and for staying warm without feeling overheated.
Cotton Knits & Wovens
Breathable and skin-friendly
Cotton fabrics feel natural and breathable, making them ideal for those who run warm or have reactive skin.
What to expect
- Soft and breathable
- Natural feel against the skin
- Low static
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Can be layered easily
We often blend cotton with spandex or polyester to improve stretch and durability.
Merino Wool & Merino Blends
Temperature-regulating, soft, and naturally performance-grade
Merino is a natural fiber known for its ability to keep you warm without overheating. Unlike traditional wool, merino fibers are extremely fine, which makes them soft and non-itchy for most people, including those with sensitive skin.
We carry both pure merino and merino-blend fabrics, chosen for everyday comfort and durability.
What to expect
- Soft, smooth feel (not scratchy)
- Naturally temperature-regulating
- Warm without bulk
- Breathable and moisture-wicking
- Odor-resistant for multi-day wear
- Excellent for layering
- Comfortable against the skin
Merino is ideal for Alaska climates, travel, and anyone who wants clothing that adapts to changing temperatures throughout the day.
Merino blends, often combined with nylon or elastane, add durability and stretch while preserving merino’s softness and breathability.
Why Fabric Feel Matters
Two tops can have the same measurements but feel completely different on your body. Fabric determines:
- Whether something clings or drapes
- How it feels on sensitive skin
- Whether it wrinkles or travels well
- How it layers in cold weather
- Whether it stretches comfortably across the bust
That’s why we go beyond basic fabric content and focus on how clothing behaves when worn.
Our Promise
- Feel good on real bodies
- Work in real climates
- Are comfortable for long days
- Are kind to sensitive skin
- Hold up to everyday life
If something feels stiff, itchy, flimsy, or overly trendy, it does not make it into Ruthie’s Rack.
If you ever have questions about how a piece feels, fits, or layers, we are always happy to help you find your best match.
Welcome to clothing that feels as good as it looks.