Collection features consumer-trusted Seal of Cotton trademark

CARY, N.C.(Oct. 15, 2025) – 1888 Mills debuts a new bath and bedding collection that makes a strong statement: cotton belongs at every price point. Developed in collaboration with Cotton Incorporated, the assortment features 100% cotton towels, sheets, and bedding at opening price points designed to offer a natural alternative within the value market.

The collection bears the Seal of Cotton trademark, a mark that immediately indicates the product’s natural fiber content. In fact, 79% of consumers find brands using the Seal of Cotton trademark to be trustworthy, and 82% equate the Seal of Cotton trademark with sustainable products, according to Cotton Incorporated’s 2023 Seal of Cotton Survey of over 1,500 people.

“Our goal was to create a collection that’s truly affordable and accessible, while giving consumers more opportunities to choose natural fibers,” said Lexi Schladenhauffen, chief merchandising officer of 1888 Mills. “We worked with Cotton Incorporated to highlight the benefits of natural cotton fiber, such as softness, breathability, and durability. We also recognize the growing awareness of microplastics in our environment and believe that towels and sheets, the fabrics we live closest to, should be as clean, natural, and comfortable as possible.”

This collection brings together classic essentials in neutral colors, with bedding available in a variety of solids and prints, including a stylish gingham pattern that seamlessly fits into today’s home and lifestyle trends. The line demonstrates that cotton can compete directly with synthetics on cost, while offering the added benefits of comfort, quality and breathability that come from a trusted natural fiber. Cotton offers a natural alternative that biodegrades readily, providing a choice aligned with consumers’ increasing focus on sustainability.

“1888 Mills champions cotton and consistently proves that natural fiber innovation meets real market needs,” noted Marcy Gang, executive account manager at Cotton Incorporated. “This collection shows cotton delivers cost efficiency and gives consumers the comfort and performance they want at prices that rival low-cost synthetics. We welcome 1888 Mills’ commitment to making the benefits of cotton accessible to more people.”

For retailers, the assortment of home textiles is value-engineered to meet aggressive opening price points while still delivering quality. It fills the “good” category in a good-better-best merchandising strategy and features:

• Bath: Lower GSM (grams per square meter) towels, engineered for softness and long-lasting loft wash after wash.
• Bedding: Soft woven 100% cotton sheets, quilts, and comforters in versatile constructions.
• Design: A range of solids, yarn-dyes, and approachable prints in muted, sophisticated tones.

The new line meets consumer demand for more natural options in value-priced bedding and bath products.  With increased awareness of microplastics entering waterways during wash cycles, 1888 Mills saw an opportunity to provide a natural alternative that doesn’t compromise on price or accessibility.

About 1888 Mills:

1888 Mills®, LLC is a global manufacturer of home and commercial textiles catering to the retail, hospitality and healthcare markets worldwide. As a pioneer in global towel manufacturing, 1888 Mills operates facilities in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Cambodia. 1888 Mills has emerged as a leader in home and commercial manufacturing for bath, bedding, kitchen, window and commercial apparel.  1888 Mills’ Brand Purpose “Weaving a Better World” is designed to drive innovation within the global marketplace by carrying out initiatives that promote environmental stewardship and contribute to the reduction of poverty.  This is a commitment to stakeholders as well as the economic regions where they operate.

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data.

For more information or to learn more, follow along on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X or visit www.cottoninc.com. Brands and retailers can learn more about the Seal of Cotton trademark and how to become a licensee at CottonWorks.com/SealofCotton.

References:
Hubbe, M.A., Daystar, J.S., Venditti, R.A., Pawlak, J.J., Zambrano, M.C., Barlaz, M., Ankeny, M., Pires, S. (2025). Biodegradability of Cellulose Fibers, Films, and Particles: A Review. BioResources, 20(1), 2391-2458. Link

Boucher, J. and Friot D. (2017). Primary Microplastics in the Oceans: A Global Evaluation of Sources. Gland, Switzerland: IUCN. Link

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New data from Cotton Incorporated and COTTON USA shows consumers worldwide prefer cotton for everyday wear and trust it for environmental safety

CARY, N.C./ WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 7, 2025) – Cotton Incorporated and COTTON USA today released new findings from the 2025 Global Lifestyle Monitor Survey, offering a compelling snapshot of consumer preferences shaping the future of the apparel industry, sustainability, and shopping behaviors.

The results from the global survey, which interviewed 13,026 consumers across thirteen countries, reveal that comfort, quality, and durability remain the top drivers of apparel purchases worldwide, reinforcing cotton’s position as the natural choice for consumers across demographics. These insights arrive at a pivotal moment, as brands, retailers, and manufacturers seek to align with evolving consumer values.

The release coincides with World Cotton Day (October 7), a global observance celebrating cotton’s role in economies, communities, and fashion.

“On World Cotton Day, we recognize the fiber that continues to appeal most to consumers around the globe,” says William Kimbrell, president and chief executive officer at Cotton Incorporated. “Comfort and quality remain top priorities for consumers, and cotton delivers on both, naturally. The latest data from the Global Lifestyle Monitor Survey confirms that cotton is the fiber of choice for consumers for everyday wear, performance, and sustainability.”

Key Findings from the Global Lifestyle Monitor Study:

• Cotton is the Preferred Fiber Globally
  3 in 4 (75 percent) consumers prefer clothing made of cotton, cotton blends, or denim, overwhelmingly ahead of manmade fibers like polyester, spandex, and rayon.
• Cotton Tops in Comfort, Quality & Authenticity
  Consumers rate cotton clothing as the most comfortable (67 percent), softest (66 percent), best quality (59 percent), most authentic (56 percent), and most sustainable (49 percent) compared to clothing made from polyester or rayon.
• Natural Fibers Command a Premium
  Over half (59 percent) of global consumers are willing to pay more for clothing made from natural fibers such as cotton, citing comfort (66 percent) and quality (63 percent) as key reasons.
• Environmental Trust in Cotton
  Most consumers consider cotton (83 percent) and other natural fibers to be safe for the environment, while fewer than half believe manmade fibers like rayon (48 percent), polyester (46 percent), and Tencel (41 percent) are environmentally safe.
• Sustainability Matters, But Trust Is Key
  75 percent of global consumers are interested in sustainable clothing, with 21 percent calling it essential and 54 percent saying it’s “nice to have.”
• Tactile Advantage in Retail

Consumers say trying on clothing (71 percent) and feeling the fabric (56 percent) are the top reasons why they prefer shopping in-store, a clear advantage for cotton’s tactile appeal.

“This year’s Global Lifestyle Monitor findings show that cotton’s strengths — comfort, quality, and environmental trust — are exactly what consumers are seeking, no matter where they live,” said Liz Hershfield, Executive Director, COTTON USA. “As brands and retailers adapt to shifting consumer habits and tighter economic conditions, cotton’s durability and versatility make it a smart choice for building products that last, resonate globally, and meet sustainability goals.”

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data.  For more information or to learn more, follow along on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X or visit www.cottoninc.com.

About COTTON USA

COTTON USA is the global brand of Cotton Council International (CCI), the export promotion arm of the National Cotton Council of America (NCC). COTTON USA promotes U.S. cotton fiber, yarn, and manufactured cotton products around the globe. With operations in more than 50 countries and nearly 70 years of trade experience, COTTON USA works with spinning mills, fabric and garment manufacturers, brands, retailers, textile associations, and the USDA to make U.S. cotton the preferred fiber worldwide. Learn more at www.cottonusa.org.

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CARY, N.C. (August 7, 2025) – Millions of students gear up for their first taste of independence as they prepare for campus life. Creating a cozy and comfortable space to call their own is essential. Students are increasingly personalizing their dorm rooms, choosing cotton decor for its style, comfort, and easy care. A versatile fabric, cotton offers a soft touch plus warmth, making it perfect for those late-night study sessions or weekend sleep-ins.

Cotton Incorporated recently asked 608 students and parents about the dorm décor trend.  Less than half of the parents and students surveyed plan to spend under $500 on dorm items. Quality, durability, softness, ease of cleaning, and style are key factors influencing purchases.

Students look to elevate their dorm rooms, seeking both style and functionality in their living spaces and embracing the comfort and style that cotton brings to a curated space that feels like a true home away from home.

Parents say that dorm décor is important to them because they’d like their kids to feel at home while living at college and have a comfortable place to study.

“Beyond aesthetics, the comfort provided by cotton dorm decor plays a crucial role in maintaining a sense of home away from home,” notes Melissa Bastos, director of corporate strategy and insights for Cotton Incorporated. “Seventy-five percent of dorm room shoppers say cotton is their preferred fiber for textiles. The softness and breathability of cotton textiles contribute to a relaxing environment, promoting better sleep quality and overall well-being.”

According to the survey, the top 10 items purchased:

Those surveyed expect to update their textiles once or twice a year, with parents anticipating more frequent updates than students.

For shopping ideas from a variety of brands, visit thefabricofourlives.com/shop/cotton/home.

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. To learn more, visit LifestyleMonitor.cottoninc.com and follow along on Facebook, LinkedIn, X.

Images are available, courtesy of Cotton Incorporated.

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CARY, N.C. (June 30, 2025) – Plastic pollution is one of the most urgent environmental challenges of our time, with the apparel value chain contributing an estimated 14% of annual plastic leakage into the environment.[1] Additionally, microplastic particles contaminate oceans, waterways, and even human bodies, raising concerns for ecosystems and public health alike.[2] Despite growing awareness, misinformation and a lack of actionable guidance leave many struggling to understand the issue, or how to address it.

To bridge this knowledge gap, Cotton Incorporated launched a new resource hub designed to empower stakeholders across the apparel industry with trustworthy, science-backed information. The hub serves as a centralized destination for understanding the role of textiles in plastic pollution and exploring solutions rooted in natural fibers like cotton. Backed by decades of conducting peer-reviewed research, Cotton Incorporated offers data and insights to help brands, retailers, and consumers make informed decisions that support a more sustainable future.

“Cotton provides a scalable and scientifically proven solution to the synthetic microfiber issue,” said Jesse Daystar, Ph.D., vice president and chief sustainability officer at Cotton Incorporated. “As ongoing research continues to uncover the full impact of synthetic microfibers on our bodies and environment, we must take immediate action using the effective solutions available today—and cotton is clearly one of them. Plastic pollution is a global crisis that we can begin addressing right now through better data sharing, education, and coordinated action. This hub provides clear, credible information on the impacts of our fiber choices and empowers both supply chains and consumers to adopt proven solutions like switching to natural fibers such as cotton, reducing plastic contamination in our environment and in our bodies.”

The Problem: Synthetic Textiles and Plastic Pollution

Synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic dominate the global textile market, accounting for approximately 62% of all fibers produced.[3] Unlike natural fibers, these materials shed microplastics during washing and wear, which then enter our bodies, waterways, and persist in the environment for longer periods of time.[4][5] Headlines increasingly highlight the impacts of the accumulation of microplastics, not only to marine life but also to human health, as studies reveal their presence in drinking water, food, and even the air we breathe.1

The Solution: A Trusted Resource for Actionable Insights

Cotton Incorporated’s new hub on CottonToday.com is designed to address this knowledge gap by offering a comprehensive display of the evidence supporting solutions to the synthetic microfiber pollution problem, guiding stakeholders toward more sustainable textile solutions. Key features include:

• Science-Backed Research: Access to peer-reviewed studies comparing the biodegradability of natural fibers like cotton versus synthetic alternatives.
• Actionable Guidance: Practical tips for brands, retailers, and consumers on reducing plastic pollution through fiber choices and sustainable practices.
• Environmental Impact Data: Insights into how cotton supports circular economy principles by decomposing naturally in soil and water.
• Industry Leadership: Resources highlighting Cotton Incorporated’s decades-long commitment to advancing sustainable practices in the textile industry.

Who Can Benefit from the Hub?

The resource hub is tailored to meet the needs of:

• Journalists: Seeking credible, clear and current scientific evidence demonstrating the impacts of synthetic microfibers, macro plastics as well as data on cotton biodegradability.
• Brands and Retailers: Looking to better understand the plastic crisis and make shifts to better align their products with consumer demand for environmentally responsible materials.
• Consumers: Interested in making more sustainable purchasing decisions and understanding the impact of their choices.

Join the Movement Toward Plastic-Free Textiles

Cotton Incorporated invites journalists, brands, retailers, and consumers to explore the resource hub and join its mission to choose cotton as a textile solution and understand the science behind microfiber pollution. By prioritizing natural fibers like cotton, we can collectively reduce reliance on synthetic materials.

For more information, visit https://cottontoday.cottoninc.com/our-sustainability-story/microfibers/cotton-natural-fiber-microplastic-free.

About Cotton Incorporated 

Cotton Incorporated is a research and promotion company for upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. To learn more, visit CottonToday.com and follow along on Facebook, LinkedIn, X.

Citations

[1] Kounina, A., Daystar, J., Chalumeau, S., Devine, J., Geyer, R. Pires, S., Uday Sonar, S., Venditti, R., Boucher, J. (2024). “The global apparel industry is a significant yet overlooked source of plastic leakage.”

[2] Roslan et al. (2024). Detection of microplastics in human tissues and organs: A scoping review. Journal of Global Health. Link

[3]  Hubbe, M.A., Daystar, J.S., Venditti, R.A., Pawlak, J.J., Zambrano, M.C., Barlaz, M., Ankeny, M., Pires, S. (2025). Biodegradability of Cellulose Fibers, Films, and Particles: A Review. BioResources20(1), 2391-2458. Link

[4] Marielis C. Zambrano et al. (2020). Aerobic Biodegradation in Freshwater and Marine Environments of Textile Microfibers Generated in Clothes Laundering: Effects of Cellulose and Polyester-Based Microfibers on the Microbiome. Marine Pollution Bulletin 151: p. 110826. Link

[5] Marielis C. Zambrano et al. (2019). Microfibers Generated from the Laundering of Cotton, Rayon and Polyester Based Fabrics and Their Aquatic Biodegradation. Marine Pollution Bulletin 142: pp. 394-407. Link

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CARY, N.C. (June 17, 2025) – Cotton Incorporated today announced the launch of a reimagined CottonWorks website, an ambitious digital transformation designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s global textile professionals across every stage of the value chain. The new platform is more than a redesign – it is an intuitive, fashion-forward platform built to support compliance, product development, sourcing, and education across the textile industry.

“In today’s landscape, companies continue to evolve the way they do business, and so do we,” said Mark Messura, senior vice president, Global Supply Chain Marketing at Cotton Incorporated. “Today’s professionals are working in a very different environment than they were even just a few years ago. With fewer companies sending teams to mills or factories, opportunities for learning and training have become more limited. They need more than training. They need reliable, in-depth knowledge that helps them tackle challenges like compliance and product development. Our research shows they want trustworthy resources at their fingertips, and this relaunch is a direct response to those changing needs.”

The new site debuted on a global stage at Cotton ConneXions – Where Innovation Meets Opportunity, Cotton Incorporated’s industry event hosted in Hong Kong in May. More than 255 attendees from 124 companies across 12 countries received a first glimpse of the new fashion-forward, digital platform.

“The newly launched CottonWorks site is a comprehensive resource for anyone in the apparel industry,” said Doug Tepper, vice president, Sourcing, Quality, Compliance & ESG at J.Jill. “Thank you for providing such a tremendous amount of relevant, valuable information and educational tools all in one, easy to navigate, website.”

Grounded in industry research that revealed a growing need for flexible, digital-first tools, the new CottonWorks learning hub reflects how modern professionals now learn, connect, and create. Seeking trend insights, marketing support, and digital product creation as top priorities, along with practical tools including enhanced virtual learning, 3D fabric files, technical specifications and compliance materials, CottonWorks is newly poised to deliver accessible, actionable tools to product developers, designers, sourcing leaders and marketers.

“The new CottonWorks site is a fantastic leap forward,” said Gurvinder Malhotra, vice president, Global Raw Materials at Alo Yoga. “The refreshed design is not only visually striking but also significantly enhances the user experience. The streamlined navigation, improved search functionality, and mobile responsiveness make it easier than ever for users to access the wealth of resources CottonWorks offers. It’s clear that a lot of thought went into making the site more intuitive and engaging for today’s professionals in the textile and apparel industries. It’s a major step forward in supporting innovation and sustainability in the textile industry and a valuable resource for anyone working with cotton.”

Key features of CottonWorks include:

• A personalized user dashboard to bookmark favorite content and streamline workflow.
• A refreshed Learning Hub with on-demand educational videos and tutorials.
• Downloadable digital fabrics, compliance guides and supplier directories.
• Expanded content on trend forecasting, traceability, circularity and recycling.

Designed to centralize knowledge and continue to serve as the leading industry platform for cotton-rich knowledge, tools and resources, CottonWorks equips professionals with a trusted platform to thrive in today’s fast-moving global marketplace. For more information, visit CottonWorks.com.

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data.  For more information or to learn more, follow along on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X or visit www.cottoninc.com.

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CARY, N.C. (June 5, 2025) – In a powerful display of global collaboration, more than 255 industry leaders from 124 companies including over 41 top global brands and sourcing organizations gathered in Hong Kong on May 15 for Cotton ConneXions: Where Innovation Meets Opportunity, a one-day summit hosted by Cotton Incorporated. 

The event united the global cotton supply chain to discover innovations, recognize industry contributions, generate business orders, network, and address the challenges and opportunities shaping the fiber’s future amid regulatory shifts and evolving market dynamics.

“Through the Cotton ConneXions event, Cotton Incorporated serves as a convenor of global decision-makers, especially within the dynamic Asian region.  We recognize that meaningful progress in the supply chain happens through collaboration. Events like this allow us to bridge innovation and opportunity, while reinforcing our commitment to advancing cotton’s role in a more sustainable, transparent, and high-performing textile future,” notes William Kimbrell, president & CEO of Cotton Incorporated. 

The agenda included forward-looking insights, beginning with opening remarks from President and CEO, William Kimbrell and Chairman of the Board, Marvin Arthur Beyer, Jr. A global market outlook from Mark Messura, senior vice president of Global Supply Chain Marketing at Cotton Incorporated, highlighted the economic and trade shifts impacting cotton’s role in the supply chain. An insightful presentation by Heidi van den Hul, founder of fabriCreation, focused on global compliance impacts. Presentations included a look at Fall/Winter 2026/2027 cotton trends, highlighting preferences among consumers for durable, long-lasting fashion. Next generation dyeing and finishing technologies, strategies for reducing the environmental impact of textile production, and cotton’s role in low-carbon, plastic-free future were addressed by conference speakers. The event showcased the newly updated Cottonworks.com website, the most extensive resource for cotton available to the industry.

“Cotton ConneXions is where ideas become action. Whether those ideas come from Cotton Incorporated or our many industry partners, we are proud to serve as a source of inspiration and practical ideas for helping manufacturers, brands, and retailers improve and expand their cotton business,” stated Mark Messura, senior vice president of Global Supply Chain Marketing. 

For more information and photos from the Cotton ConneXions Hong Kong event, go to https://cottonworks.com/news/cotton-connexions/

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data.  For more information or to learn more, follow along on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X or visit www.cottoninc.com.

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New York (June 2, 2025) — New York, June After debuting part one of their ‘American Icons’ collaboration in early May at the Kentucky Derby, Cotton Incorporated and LoveShackFancy are unveiling the next phase of their partnership – The America’s Sweetheart Cotton Collection starring the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Eight members of the team are featured in the campaign, starring Reece Weaver, Kylie Dickson, Camille Sturvidant, and Kelly Villares.

Rooted in the history of LoveShackFancy, cotton fabric has long since played a role in creating the brand’s signature silhouettes and timeless Heritage styles, ultimately creating that sense of effortless wearability and romantic airiness they’re known and loved for.

The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are the complete embodiment of America’s sweethearts (and icons) – they’re bold, courageous, beautiful, empowered, and unapologetically themselves, which is everything this capsule represents. The easy, yet elevated pieces allow for a sense of living freely and embracing everyday confidence. The campaign showcases the all American-inspired pieces shot on the girls in their element at The Star, the 91-acre campus of the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters and practice facility in Frisco, TX. Each image captures the essence of both the women and the collection’s spirit and optimism. The infectious energy of “game day” was channeled, complete with the talented athletes’ signature cheer moves, charisma, and pom poms.

The 28-piece collection, featuring both women and girls’ styles and accessories, showcases an array of red-white-and-blue (and pink) outfits all designed using easy and breathable cotton fabric. Sun dresses arrive in pretty prints ranging from bright picnic plaids to subtle stars. Playful embroidered cherries give off an air of nostalgia as they dance upon skirts, dresses, tops, and denim pieces. Spirited sweaters are embroidered with American flags. The girls’ assortment features many looks scaled down to match. As for accessories, the Henderson Bag arrives with a floral American flag while the Octavia Pouch plays on the cherry theme. The Balletta Barette rounds out the collection done in two of the collection’s key prints.

To celebrate the collection, Cotton Incorporated and LoveShackFancy will host a public facing tailgated-themed event at LoveShackFancy’s Dallas boutique on June 21st which will include a special meet & greet opportunity with two of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and their team mascot, Rowdy. Alongside the meet & greet, guests can shop the capsule, enjoy complimentary gifts with their purchase, light bites, sips, and more.

Designed for the modern woman, the collection emphasizes cotton’s simplicity which makes it easy to feel and look great, from what you wear to how you move through LoveShackFancy’s feminine and empowering silhouettes, resulting in the ultimate all-American attire perfect for high summer. Versatile and breathable, cotton fabrics feel amazing, serving looks with confidence and style. The capsule collection consists of a few of LoveShackFancy’s best-selling styles as well as new, limited-edition pieces and more, all designed using ultra-soft cotton fabric that feels right for the warm weather season.

Cotton x LoveShackFancy’s America’s Sweethearts Capsule Collection will be available to shop on June 10th at loveshackfancy.com and in LoveShackFancy boutiques.

“I’m so thrilled to share our Cotton x LoveShackFancy ‘America’s Sweetheart’ Capsule Collection—starring none other than the iconic Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. This campaign is a celebration of American icons, and to me, cotton is one of them. It’s one of our most essential fabrics, timeless, breathable, and soft, and at the core of so many of our most feminine, heritage-inspired designs. When we thought about who embodies that same spirit of tradition, strength, and style, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders were it. I’m so inspired by these women and their ability to show up with heart, grit, and 110% energy every single day. It’s that undeniable drive and presence that makes them truly iconic. We couldn’t be more proud or excited to have them representing this special collection.”
—Rebecca Hessel Cohen, Founder & Creative Director, LoveShackFancy

“Our renewed collaboration with LoveShackFancy, inspired by the iconic Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, strategically highlights cotton’s role in driving cultural relevance and consumer connection. The America’s Sweetheart Cotton Collection captures the essence of American style and celebrates cotton’s versatility and timelessness. Having the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders showcase these beautiful cotton pieces reinforces the fibers’ continued relevance as the fabric of our lives – then, now and always,” –Kim Kitchings, Senior Vice President of Consumer Marketing at Cotton Incorporated.

About LoveShackFancy:

LoveShackFancy is a global fashion, beauty, home and lifestyle brand founded by Rebecca Hessel Cohen in 2013. It was created to celebrate love and revel in the beauty of a flower-filled, rose-colored world. Here, everyday is an occasion and your wildest dreams can become reality.

The LoveShackFancy aesthetic marries vintage inspiration with a fun and modern take on femininity: An overflow of pink, prints, ruffles and lace that speaks not just to romantics at heart but anyone who wants to feel beautiful and confident in their own skin. The bows that can be found across LoveShackFancy clothing, perfume, bedding and kids collections perfectly encapsulate the spirit of the brand—a balance of softness and strength, and an undeniable charm that has no age or time limit.

Today, LoveShackFancy is an award-winning and family-owned company with 20 stores worldwide, 450 retail partners, and collaborations with Stanley, Gap, Roller Rabbit, Kendra Scott, Cotton, Pottery Barn, State, Bogner, Supergoop, Hurley, American Girl, Roblox and Bandier. LoveShackFancy has received the WWD Award for The Best Performing Fashion Company and Rebecca has been honored with the Entrepreneurship Award at the Fashion Institute Annual Awards Gala and Visionary Of The Year at The Guild Hall Visionaries Event and featured in the WSJ, Forbes and on the cover of the New York Times Style section. Millions of friends have joined the party, sharing in the belief that being in love with love is a state of mind that can take you farther than you ever imagined.

About Cotton Incorporated:
Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, follow along on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Pinterest, and YouTube.

The Fabric of Now is Cotton’s new always-on, modern marketing platform that lives within The Fabric of Our Lives® ecosystem — a bold leap into the future of how we connect with the people who love us.

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CARY, N.C. (May 7, 2025) — When it comes to selecting the best fashion and home style pieces, quality matters. One key aspect that stands out among consumers is the choice of fabric, especially with cotton being a popular favorite for its comfort, durability, and sustainability. Whether it’s clothing or home textiles, the fiber label “cotton” signifies comfort and quality especially when looking for value per use in a down economy.

A $47 pair of denim jeans worn three times a week, for eight years makes its cost-per-wear about 4 cents. Most people wear four pairs regularly, which extends to about 15 cents per wear. The example averages are based on consumer responses from the Cotton Incorporated Lifestyle Monitor Survey, 2025.

Most U.S. shoppers prioritize comfort, durability, and quality when it comes to denim—and cotton delivers. According to Cotton Incorporated’s 2024 Global Denim Survey, 80% of consumers prefer jeans made from cotton or cotton blends for their durability and quality, while 85% say cotton is the most comfortable fabric. From on-trend jorts and barrel jeans to elegant cotton shirts and dresses, this natural fiber remains a staple in fashion collections, helping wearers look good and feel good about their purchases.

“Comfort, fit, quality, and durability are what really matter to today’s shoppers. It’s not just about style—it’s about how clothes feel, how they fit, and how long they last; cotton delivers on all these factors,” says Kim Kitchings, senior vice president of consumer marketing at Cotton Incorporated. “When brands invest in cotton, they earn shoppers’ trust and loyalty that lasts, it’s the halo effect.”

Cotton’s appeal extends well beyond the closet and into home décor. When refreshing a living space, cotton-based textiles can instantly elevate both style and comfort. Think soft bed linens for a luxurious night’s sleep or plush towels that bring spa-like indulgence to everyday routines. The versatility and practicality of cotton make it an ideal choice for stylish, comfortable living.

By checking labels and choosing cotton in both fashion and home items, shoppers are investing in a high-quality fiber—and supporting sustainability. As a natural material grown from the earth microplastic-free, recyclable through Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go Green^TM  program and able to return to the earth, cotton is an ideal choice for those who value performance and planet.

“Tariffs and economic uncertainty have shoppers more tuned into the supply chain. However, there is no shortage of available cotton and prices are at their lowest levels in five years,” notes Jon Devine, senior economist for Cotton Incorporated. “The ultimate impact of changing policy and economic conditions remains unknown. While retailers, brands, and mills consider the range of potential implications, consumers can be expected to focus on their budget and to look for value – cotton’s reputation for quality can support this demand.”

Now is the time for shoppers to embrace the value of cotton and its durability for everyday life, making a conscious choice for quality and sustainability. Shop for cotton styles at TheFabricOfOurLives.com and discover more about cotton’s sustainability at CottonToday.com.

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About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, follow along on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X or visit www.cottoninc.com.

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CARY, N.C. (April 23, 2025) — The technical and creative minds at Cotton Incorporated reimagine ‘The Fabric of Our Lives’ with bold new concepts for the future of fashion and home products.

Imagine quilted jackets, blankets and throw pillows filled not with polyester but repurposed denim and cotton t-shirts.

Cotton Incorporated introduces inspiring new fabrics with thick nonwoven material from recycled pre- and post-consumer denim and post-industrial cotton t-shirt fabric. This unique approach reduces waste and promotes sustainable practices by using natural, microplastic-free materials. The inspirational and innovative fabric emphasizes the vast potential of cotton in shaping the future of the textile industry for home textiles and clothing.

“Our team’s collaborative efforts shine in fabric construction innovations,” says Yvonne Johnson, director of product development for Cotton Incorporated. “By utilizing recycled cotton materials and natural fabrics, we are pushing the boundaries and creating high-quality products with circularity and biodegradability in mind inspiring designers, brands and retailers.”

The following fabric, new for the 2025 collection, is distinctive for the combination:
• Use of natural fibers
• Knit and woven constructions
• Virgin cotton fabric plus recycled cotton batting

Cotton Incorporated’s FABRICAST&trad; collections help product developers, manufacturers and retailers to get the most from cotton. Four other quilted projects were completed at the end of 2024.

About Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, follow along on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X or visit www.cottoninc.com.

Images are available, courtesy of Cotton Incorporated.

The post Swapping Polyester Fill for Recycled Cotton appeared first on Cotton Incorporated.

NEW YORK (April 22, 2025) – Cotton Incorporated and  New York City embroidery studio Abbode are weaving together tradition and modern elegance with the launch of the Heirloom Collection—a limited-edition line of 100% cotton table linens and kitchen accessories inspired by spring’s beauty and the joy of gathering around the table.

Bringing artistry to the table, the Heirloom Collection features a cotton apron, an embroidered table runner and whimsical “cake” napkins, each adorned with Abbode’s signature hand-drawn designs. Vibrant ranunculus from the Carlsbad Flower Fields, bright daffodils, playful cutlery, and decadent cake slices add a touch of nostalgia and romance to every meal.

Crafted with sustainability and longevity in mind, these 100% cotton pieces are more than just beautiful—they’re designed to be used, loved and passed down for generations. Free from microplastics and easy to wash, the collection offers a stylish alternative to disposable materials. The collection made a stunning debut at the Cotton x Cake Picnic at the Carlsbad Flower Fields in San Diego, where guests got a first look at these charming, heirloom-quality pieces, designed to turn everyday moments into lasting memories.

“This collaboration is a love letter to cotton’s beauty and resilience,” said Kim Kitchings, senior vice president of consumer marketing at Cotton Incorporated. “By choosing high-quality, reusable cotton pieces, we’re inviting consumers to embrace sustainability in a way that feels warm, personal and effortlessly elegant.”

“At Abbode, we believe in turning everyday items into keepsakes,” said Abigail Price, founder of Abbode. “This collection is meant to be used, loved and celebrated—whether it’s draped over a table for Sunday brunch or tucked away as a cherished family heirloom.”

With the Cotton x Abbode Heirloom Collection, Cotton Incorporated is encouraging consumers to rethink their kitchens and dining spaces—trading single-use materials for pieces that tell a story and grow more meaningful over time.

The Cotton x Abbode Heirloom Collection will be available at ShopAbbode.com beginning April 22, 2025:

• Cotton x Abbode Table Runner – $125
• Cotton x Abbode Apron – $58
• Cotton x Abbode Cake Napkins – $24 each / $75 set of four
• Cotton x Abbode Collection Set – $225

About Cotton Incorporated:
Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, follow along on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Pinterest, and YouTube.

The Fabric of Now is Cotton’s new always-on, modern marketing platform that lives within The Fabric of Our Lives® ecosystem — a bold leap into the future of how we connect with the people who love us.

About Abbode:

Abbode was created by Abigail Price in February of 2020 and opened its doors in New York City in May 2021. Originally offering dry floral arrangements and curated vintage pieces, the business took a transformative turn in 2022 with the introduction of custom embroidery. Today, Abbode is New York’s go-to destination for bespoke embroidery, known for creating personalized pieces that beautifully capture life’s most meaningful moments.

The post Cotton Incorporated and Abbode Debut the Heirloom Collection appeared first on Cotton Incorporated.

SAN DIEGO (April 14, 2025) – Set against a backdrop of vibrant ranunculus blooms, Cotton Incorporated and the viral dessert sensation CAKE PICNIC brought together cake lovers, community seekers, and eco-conscious enthusiasts for an unforgettable first-ever Cake Picnic in San Diego. As the event’s exclusive sponsor, Cotton showcased the beauty, functionality, and sustainability of natural fibers, reinforcing its role as the perfect fabric for outdoor gatherings – even messy ones!

The sold-out event featured a dazzling display of over 130 cakes, each lovingly baked by attendees and presented on 100% cotton tablecloths, linens, and napkins. These cotton touchpoints served not only as a versatile and durable choice for cake-related accidents but to demonstrate the soft, natural choice of fabric, especially while eating and dining.

Adding to the excitement, guests got an exclusive first look at an upcoming Cotton collaboration with Abbode (launching April 22 ), a bespoke embroidery studio. Inspired by the blooming ranunculus fields and the joy of breaking cake together, this limited-edition line of embroidered cotton accessories seamlessly merges artistry with sustainability—perfect for elevating outdoor dining experiences.

“Cotton is naturally soft, breathable, and easy to care for — it truly is the ideal fabric. Whether you’re wearing your favorite cotton T-shirt, a flowy spring dress, or setting the table with beautiful, low-maintenance cotton napkins and linens, cotton brings comfort and style to every occasion,” said Kim Kitchings, senior vice president of consumer marketing at Cotton Incorporated. “We want everyone to see cotton as the go-to fabric for any gathering — whether you’re wearing it or dining with it, it’s a timeless fiber.”

“I’m so excited to have Cotton as our first partner for CAKE PICNIC! It was a match made in heaven,” said Elisa Sunga, founder of CAKE PICNIC. “When planning our picnics, especially with cake involved, I always reach for my cotton blanket—perfect for those sweet but messy moments. It’s soft, cozy, super durable and easy to care for, which makes it the perfect foundation for a day in the outdoors with good friends and good food.”

Beyond the cakes, Cotton engaged attendees with interactive experiences, inviting them to touch, feel, and test their cotton knowledge through hands-on quizzes—offering a chance to win exclusive, cake-inspired prizes and limited-edition giveaways. It was the perfect day for celebrating spring, surrounded by sweet treats, fresh blooms, and the unmatched comfort of cotton.

Why Cotton is the Perfect Outdoor Fabric

Cotton is naturally absorbent, quick-drying, and resistant to odors, making it an ideal choice for warm-weather entertaining. Unlike synthetic materials, cotton stays cool and comfortable in the heat, while its durability ensures it can handle everything from cake spills to spontaneous park lounging. Plus, it’s easy to wash and reuse, reducing waste and promoting a more sustainable lifestyle. To learn more about these benefits of cotton, visit TheFabricOfOurLives.com.

About Cotton Incorporated:
Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, follow along on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Pinterest, and YouTube.

The Fabric of Now is Cotton’s new always-on, modern marketing platform that lives within The Fabric of Our Lives® ecosystem—a bold leap into the future of how we connect with the people who love us.

About CAKE PICNIC:

CAKE PICNIC is a gathering for the love of cake. It celebrates cake in all of its forms — chiffon cakes, upside down cakes, Princess cakes, cake loaves, cupcakes, Russian honey cakes, meringue cakes, jello cakes, trifles, multi-tiered cakes, sponge cakes, butter cakes, and more. CAKE PICNIC brings communities and friends together for the sole purpose of breaking cake and enjoying the following butter and sugar highs. To be surrounded by as many cakes as there are humans is definitely something special, right? It is a moment in time where we come together for something truly sweet. It is a feast for the ages and you just have to be there.

The post A Picture-Perfect Picnic: 160+ Cakes, Ranunculus Blooms and the Natural Comfort of Cotton appeared first on Cotton Incorporated.

Cotton has long been a preferred material for home and clothing textiles, offering significant advantages over synthetic fibers—particularly in terms of environmental impact and personal comfort. Researchers at Cotton Incorporated have been studying the effects of cotton, rayon and polyester fibers on the environment since 2010, shedding light on the growing issue of microplastic pollution.

Microplastics In the Environment

A significant concern with synthetic textiles is their contribution to microplastic pollution. Research indicates that textiles are responsible for 35% of the microplastics found in our oceans. These microplastics are shed during regular wear and washing of synthetic fabrics, leading to environmental contamination.

In contrast, natural fibers like cotton exhibit superior biodegradability. Studies have shown that microfibers from cotton fabrics biodegrade substantially in various environments. For instance, microfibers from a cotton T-shirt biodegrade 89% in wastewater, 77% in freshwater, and 49% in seawater within 40 days, in a study published in Marine Pollution Bulletin. In comparison, polyester microfibers show minimal biodegradation in the same conditions.

Personal Comfort and Health

Beyond environmental considerations, cotton offers personal health benefits. Cotton is naturally hypoallergenic, a water-loving and breathable fiber. It does not trap heat and pulls moisture away from the body. Beyond these benefits, using natural fibers for clothing and home textiles can reduce exposure to airborne microplastics.

Microplastics and nanoplastics are pervasive in the environment and have been detected in human bodies, according to a recent study in Nature Medicine. More studies are needed with larger cohorts to understand the role of microplastics and nanoplastics in neurological disorders or other human health effects. While avoiding microplastics entirely is challenging, choosing materials like cotton can help minimize exposure.

A recent European Bremen Cotton Exchange report explores the impact of plastic microfibers in textiles, their role in Lifecycle Assessments and Product Environmental Footprint. Cotton Incorporated funded the study, and although more research is needed to generalize the results to all people, the findings support the growing body of evidence demonstrating the benefits of cotton

Take Action

According to Cotton Incorporated’s Lifestyle Monitor^TM  2024 survey, 70 percent of shoppers say they are looking for cotton or cotton blends. By choosing cotton for clothing and bedding, consumers can enhance comfort, durability, and environmental responsibility—helping to reduce the global impact of microplastic pollution.

Learn more about cotton’s benefits at Cotton Incorporated’s Lifestyle Monitor.

The post The Case for Cotton: A Natural Alternative to Synthetics appeared first on Cotton Incorporated.

CARY, NC  (January 14, 2025)  – Marvin Arthur Beyer Jr., a cotton grower from Taft, Texas, was elected Chairman of the Board of Cotton Incorporated at the Cotton Board and Cotton Incorporated joint meeting in December 2024. Beyer brings a distinguished and respected background and dedication to the Chairmanship, a two-year term that commences in 2025.

“Marvin embodies the commitment and vision that defines Cotton Incorporated,” notes Cotton Incorporated President and CEO William Kimbrell. “His extensive industry experience and forward-thinking leadership make him well-suited to help guide our organization as we encounter market challenges and opportunities.”

Beyer has served on Cotton Incorporated’s Board of Directors since 2007. Prior to becoming Chairman, he held the following roles: Vice Chairman (2023-2024); Secretary (2021-2022); and Treasurer (2019-2020); as well as serving on various other committees over the years. His experience positions him to guide the organization as it continues to enhance the value of cotton through strategic marketing, cutting-edge research, and global partnerships.

“I am honored to serve as Chairman of the Board for Cotton Incorporated,” said Beyer. “Cotton is more than a crop, it’s a cornerstone of livelihoods, innovation, and sustainability for communities across the country and the world. I look forward to working in this role to support cotton’s growth and advancement.”

Beyer has deep roots in agriculture that span multiple generations. With a degree in Agricultural Engineering from Texas Tech University in 1978, he partnered with his father and brother to establish the successful “Beyer Brothers” farm.

Beyer has served in leadership roles for the South Texas Cotton and Grain Association, San Patricio County Farm Bureau, Coastal Ag Coop, and Gulf Compress. Beyer’s leadership extends to national levels including his current role as Cooperative Delegate Member for the National Cotton Council and as a member of the Plains Cotton Cooperative Association Board of Directors.

In addition to his professional contributions, Beyer is an accomplished pilot, avid sports enthusiast, and devoted family man.

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. To learn more, visit www.cottoninc.com.

The post Marvin Beyer Jr. Elected as New Cotton Incorporated Chairman appeared first on Cotton Incorporated.

CARY, NC – (January 10, 2025) – Cotton Incorporated, the research and promotion company for U.S. cotton growers and importers, is pleased to announce the appointment of William Kimbrell as its new Chief Executive Officer and President. Kimbrell assumed the role effective November 2, 2024.

“We are thrilled to welcome William as the new CEO and President of Cotton Incorporated,” said Marvin Beyer, Chairman of Cotton Incorporated Board of Directors. “William’s technical expertise along with his extensive global supply chain marketing background provides a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the cotton industry today. Under his guidance, Cotton Incorporated is well-positioned to continue driving innovation and promoting the many benefits of cotton, making it the fiber of choice in the global textile industry.”

A 22-year veteran of Cotton Incorporated, Kimbrell graduated from North Carolina State University with a degree in Textile Management and achieved his MBA with a concentration in Supply Chain Management. He applied this background in various positions with Cotton Incorporated including fiber processing research and roles in the Global Supply Chain Marketing division ranging from technology management to marketing initiatives with a recent concentration in Asia.

Immediately prior to his role as president and CEO, Kimbrell held the role of Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. His vast international business experience has provided the opportunity to promote cotton to a wide range of stakeholders from leading mills, manufacturers, brands, and retailers in over 24 countries around the globe.

“I’m honored to lead Cotton Incorporated and help keep cotton competitive and at the forefront of the global textile industry,” notes Kimbrell. “As we confront market challenges, I’m confident that our commitment to sustainability, our innovative research, and our talented team of experts will champion cotton as the fiber of choice for today’s consumers and future generations.”

Kimbrell’s appointment marks a significant step in Cotton Incorporated’s ongoing commitment to supporting U.S. cotton producers, importers, and the entire cotton supply chain.

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data.

To learn more, visit www.cottoninc.com.

The post Cotton Incorporated Announces New CEO and President appeared first on Cotton Incorporated.

CARY, NC – Dr. Andrew Jordan, a recognized leader in the cotton industry, has been awarded the 2024 honoree for the Cotton Research and Promotion Hall of Fame. The program, now in its eleventh year, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the Program or to the cotton industry in general. Dr. Jordan was formally inducted into the Cotton Research and Promotion Program Hall of Fame at the joint Cotton Incorporated/Cotton Board Annual Meeting on December 10 in San Diego, CA.

The Cotton Research and Promotion Program was established in 1966 to expand the demand for Upland cotton and to increase profitability for both cotton growers and importers of cotton products.

“Dr. Andrew Jordan’s contributions to the cotton industry have been transformative,” says William Kimbrell, president and chief executive officer of Cotton Incorporated. “His leadership and dedication to responsible cotton production continue to set new standards for the industry, and we are proud to honor his remarkable achievements.”

Dr. Jordan (Memphis, Tennessee) is recognized for his extensive contributions to agricultural sustainability, environmental stewardship, and leadership within the cotton sector. He was chosen from nominations made by Certified Producer and Importer Organizations, along with board members and staff and voted upon by the Chairman’s Committee of the Cotton Incorporated Board of Directors.

With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Jordan has played a pivotal role in promoting sustainable farming practices that benefit both cotton producers and the environment. He joined the National Cotton Council (NCC) in 1976 after earning an agricultural engineering degree from the University of Georgia and his Ph.D. in Engineering from Clemson University.

At the NCC, Dr. Jordan served as the Vice President, Technical Services. During his time at the NCC, he also spent several years as the executive director for The Cotton Foundation, directing program development and raising funds from the private sector.

As a consultant to Cotton Incorporated, he has been instrumental in advancing innovative farming practices that promote sustainability and economic viability for cotton growers.

Dr. Jordan currently serves as Senior Scientist for the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol, providing expert guidance on research, policy, and sustainability initiatives. He is also the executive director of the Cotton Growers Warehouse Association, an advisor to AgLaunch (an agribusiness technology accelerator), a science director for Secure Food Solutions, and a director for Agricenter International in Cordova, Tennessee.

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About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data.

To learn more, visit www.cottoninc.com.

The post Cotton Research and Promotion Program Hall of Fame Names Dr. Andrew Jordan as Honoree in 2024 appeared first on Cotton Incorporated.

 
CARY, NC – (June 25, 2024) – Cotton Incorporated announces winners of Cotton Forward: 3D Fashion Design Challenge in collaboration with Arts Thread. This exciting competition invited future industry professionals to create innovative fashion designs using cotton fabrics and 3D technology.

The competition received entries from 27 design schools across the United States. Themes of travel, versatility and contemporary forms resonated across the collections.

“The judges were astonished by the talent, creativity and technical capabilities of the participants, their collections and extensive resources available through the CottonWorks platform,” says Megan Peterson, director of marketing and industry programs for Cotton Incorporated.  “These talented professionals truly demonstrated how cotton and digital design is an integral part of fashion’s future and the ability for cotton to be a key element in travel and outdoor apparel.”

“An inspiring vision for the future — The Arts Thread x Cotton Incorporated competition created a path for young designers to showcase their talents through innovation and creativity. Drawing on the value of digital fashion design and use of cotton fabrics, the Cotton Forward competition opened up the potential for the digitalization of the fashion industry,” comments Clare Tattersall, founder of Digital Fashion Week.  “The level of skill, imagination and technical knowledge was remarkable, we now have a new slate of designers to watch out for.”

The winners:

First Place | $5000 prize

Jacob Frothingham, Buffalo State University | graduating 2025 | LinkedIn | @jacobfrothingham

Collection Name: True Delusion

Designer Statement: Introducing the True Delusion Collection, a captivating exploration of modern identity and self-expression through looks tailored for both men and women. Each ensemble is meticulously crafted with CottonWorks digital fabrics, selected for their superior quality, versatility, and sustainability to embody the ethos of contemporary fashion.

Second Place | $3500 prize

Britney Spangenberg, Missouri State University | 2024 graduate | LinkedIn| @nightcire.arts

Collection Name: Making Outerwear a Statement

Designer Statement: This 3D Mini Collection focuses on making Outerwear a Statement through fabric volume, featuring ruched design elements, a subtle original chain print, and a contemporary color palette. This collection was produced in Browzwear Vstitcher and crafted exclusively from digital fabrics downloaded from the CottonWorks Digital Fabric Library. My ensembles feature fabrics treated with STORM COTTON durable water-repellant finish and are designed with longevity in mind.

Third Place | $1500 prize

Kailey Itri, Texas Tech University | 2024 graduate |LinkedIn| @kailey.itri

Collection Name: The Urban Cotton Essentials Collection

Designer Statement: The Urban Cotton Essentials Collection is a contemporary fusion of streetwear and commuter wear, designed for today’s modern explorer. Featuring modular designs and innovative fabrics from CottonWorks, each piece blends style, functionality, and versatility to meet the demands of today’s active lifestyles. Inspired by the natural world and urban environments, this collection empowers individuals to navigate their daily journeys with ease and confidence.

Open to students in the U.S. and recent graduates, the competition challenged participants to submit their cotton digital fashion creations from the CottonWorks Digital Fabric Library, a unique collection of over 400 free-to-download digital cotton fabric files compatible with CLO3D and Browzwear. The competition’s judging panel comprised experts in apparel design and 3D technology:

• Clare Tattersall, founder of Digital Fashion Week
• Soojin Kang, assistant professor of fashion technology at Parsons School of Design
• Katherine Absher, manager of fashion and digital design at Cotton Incorporated
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About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, follow along on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Pinterest, and YouTube.

About CottonWorks^TM                                                                                                                                                                                                   

Cotton Incorporated’s CottonWorks program serves as a key industry resource for professionals and emerging talents in the apparel and textile industry. Providing valuable insights and an extensive collection of resources, including research, informative videos, market and trend analyses, the program enhances expertise in product development, sourcing, and marketing. Explore these resources by visiting CottonWorks.

About Arts Thread
Arts Thread is the world’s leading digital platform for emerging artists & designers and a launchpad for the next generation of creative talent. Arts Thread has built relationships with over 1000 creative institutions connecting to over 400,000 students in 140 countries. Learn more by visiting Arts Thread or follow on Instagram, X, YouTube, Pinterest and LinkedIn.

About Cotton Forward 3D Fashion Design Challenge NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Open to US residents over age 18 who are enrolled in or have graduated from college within the last two years (2023, 2022 and 2021 graduates). Entry period ends on 05/17/2024 at 11:59pm ET. Subject to Competition Terms and Conditions at https://artsthread.com/competitions/cotton-forward-3d-fashion-design-challenge. Sponsor: Arts Thread Limited, 4 Cannon Lane, Pinner, Middlesex, HA5 1HL, United Kingdom.

The post An Inspiring Vision For The Future Of Cotton & Design appeared first on Cotton Incorporated.

CARY, N.C. – (June 25, 2024) – Today, fashion, lifestyle and beauty brand LoveShackFancy announced a collaboration with the iconic Cotton Incorporated to bring to life the ‘Americana’ ready-to-wear capsule collection with a stunning visual campaign, starring gymnastics Olympian Suni Lee. 

Cotton x LoveShackFancy’s Americana capsule collection embodies a re-invented sense of modernity, femininity, softness, and confidence. Cotton fabric has always played a pivotal role in creating LoveShackFancy’s signature pieces and the heritage styles the brand is known and loved for. 

The capsule collection stars gymnastics champion Suni Lee ahead of her potential participation in the Summer 2024 Games. Lee embodies the balance of confidence, femininity, and empowerment central to the collaboration. Beyond the beam and the bars, there’s Suni Lee – not just the champion, but the individual. Away from the spotlight of competition, she embraces the chance to express her true self. In the comfort of Cotton x LoveShackFancy’s Americana Collection, Lee opts for pieces that are relaxed, feminine, and playful, reflecting her genuine and personal style.  

Lee’s gymnastics prowess, marked by her adaptability and mastery of multiple disciplines, parallels the versatility of cotton. This iconic and timeless fabric seamlessly fits into any trend or moment in time. The comfort and breathability of cotton blends with the vibrancy and femininity of LoveShackFancy to create a charming collection of elevated, intentional everyday pieces, perfect for summer. The collection is designed to inspire and bring out confidence, comfort, and individual beauty, while tapping into one’s full potential with stylistic ease. 

“I was so excited when LoveShackFancy and Cotton asked me to be a part of their Americana campaign,” says Suni Lee, “I love the fun and girly designs and the use of cotton fabrics allows me to stay comfortable on and off the mat. The styles and colors of this collection are perfect for summer celebrations!” 

“The Americana collection celebrates individuality, intentionality and self-expression with cotton looks for all occasions,” says Marissa Barlin, Director of Brand Partnerships for Cotton Incorporated. “Like Suni, we all have ‘off-the-mat’ moments in our own lives, where we want to embrace comfort and exude confidence. The ease, softness, and beauty of cotton in this collection accomplish just that.” 

The capsule collection with cotton at the forefront, consists of LoveShackFancy’s best-selling heritage styles with a limited-edition, hand-painted star print, crochet sets, bow-adorned gingham dresses, easy cherry-embossed pieces, and more, all designed using the ultra-soft cotton fabric that feels so right for the summer season.  

“Going back to where it all began, this capsule collection is so special to me, because its core to  LoveShackFancy’s history. Cotton fabrications have been essential in creating our very first pieces and in building that ease and comfortability that makes them so timeless and wearable,” says Rebecca Hessel Cohen, Creative Director and Founder of LoveShackFancy, “Creating such an inspiring campaign starring Suni Lee has been the biggest honor. Having grown up with a love and passion for gymnastics myself, I have such an admiration and respect for Suni. She’s truly the perfect, female powerhouse to represent our Americana capsule collection.” 

The Cotton x LoveShackFancy “Americana” capsule collection is now available at www.loveshackfancy.com.  

About LoveShackFancy  

LoveShackFancy is a global fashion, beauty, home and lifestyle brand founded by Rebecca Hessel Cohen in 2013. It was created to celebrate love and revel in the beauty of a flower-filled, rose-colored world. Here, every day is an occasion, and your wildest dreams can become reality.  

The LoveShackFancy aesthetic marries vintage inspiration with a fun and modern take on femininity: An overflow of pink, prints, ruffles, and lace that speaks not just to romantics at heart but anyone who wants to feel beautiful and confident in their own skin. The bows that can be found across LoveShackFancy clothing, perfume, bedding and kids collections perfectly encapsulate the spirit of the brand, a balance of softness and strength, and an undeniable charm that has no age or time limit.  

Today, LoveShackFancy is an award-winning and family-owned company with 17 stores worldwide, 450 retail partners, and collaborations with Gap, Roller Rabbit, Pottery Barn, State, Bogner, Kendra Scott, Hurley, American Girl, Roblox and Bandier. Millions of friends have joined the party, sharing in the belief that being in love with love is a state of mind that can take you farther than you ever imagined.  

About Cotton  

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, follow along on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Pinterest, and YouTube.  

The Fabric of Now is Cotton’s new always-on, modern marketing platform that lives within The Fabric of Our Lives®—a bold leap into the future of how we connect with the people who love us. 

The post Cotton and LoveShackFancy Unveil ‘Americana’ Capsule Collection in Collaboration with Gymnastics Champion Suni Lee appeared first on Cotton Incorporated.

CARY, N.C. – (June 24, 2024) – Cotton Incorporated and leading researchers published a groundbreaking study in Nature Communications, titled “The global apparel industry: a significant, yet overlooked source of plastic leakage.” This research reveals synthetic clothing contributes 7.4 million metric tons of plastic pollution annually. Most of this plastic leakage arises from macroplastic waste when synthetic clothes reach the end of their life cycle. This adds to the well-documented issue of microplastic shedding during the washing and wearing of these clothes.

“The impact of synthetic garments on plastic pollution is staggering, with at least ten times more leakage than cotton clothing,” said Jesse Daystar, Ph.D., vice president and chief sustainability officer at Cotton Incorporated. “Designing with natural fibers, like cotton, is one of the key strategies to reduce plastic leakage from the apparel industry.”

The report estimates that the global apparel industry contributes 14% of the total plastic leakage into the environment, which equates to approximately 8.3 million metric tons of plastic being released annually due mainly to the global production, use, and disposal of synthetic clothing. The term “plastic leakage” refers to the quantity of plastic released from human activity and pollutes the natural environment.

In addition to focusing on the selection and use of natural fibers like cotton, the study also recommends designing products for durability and prioritizing reuse, remanufacturing, and recycling as key strategies to reduce plastic pollution. However, the report also stresses the need to assess other environmental indicators, such as climate change and non-renewable resource use, in addition to plastic pollution.

While global cotton production contributes less than 1% of total plastic pollution, the cotton industry is actively pursuing solutions. Cotton Incorporated leads these efforts with innovative research aimed at reducing environmental impact. As a collaborator in the Plastic Leak Project (PLP), Cotton Incorporated helped develop the first-ever Methodological Guidelines, which provide businesses with tools to identify, measure, and address plastic leakage in their value chains. These guidelines were crucial for assessing plastic leakage in the apparel industry.

Methodology
This research quantified plastic leakage from the global apparel industry using the Plastic Leakage Project Methodology (https://quantis.com/who-we-guide/our-impact/sustainability-initiatives/plastic-leak-project/). The study’s methodology estimated the total mass of apparel consumed in each market by utilizing production and import data. For cotton apparel, net apparent consumption data was determined by adjusting domestic production, imports, exports, and losses throughout the value chain. In contrast, synthetic clothing consumption was deduced from import data or assumptions about the proportion of apparel consumption attributed to cotton, due to its broader range of end-uses. Other types of fibers were accounted for in a similar manner. To learn more about the research methodology, please visit https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-49441-4. For a summary of the key research findings, see the topline report.

About Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated is a research and promotion company for upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. To learn more, visit CottonToday.com and follow along on Facebook, LinkedIn,  X (formerly Twitter).

Media Contact: Andrea Miles, andrea.miles@hillandknowlton.com

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CARY, N.C. – (June 11, 2024) – As the temperature begins to climb, it’s time to update wardrobes with cool and comfortable cotton clothing. Lucky Brand and Cotton Incorporated have partnered for the second year in a row and announced the launch of their “Cool in Cotton” summer collection, featuring a wide range of stylish and breathable garments.

Summer is synonymous with sunshine, beach trips and outdoor activities. However, the rising temperature can make dressing comfortably a challenge. That’s where cotton clothing comes to the rescue. Known for its breathability, cotton is the perfect fabric choice to stay cool and maintain your style during the hot summer months.

Lucky Brand recognizes the importance of staying cool and fashionable during the summer season. It’s extensive collection of cotton clothing for women and men cater to all occasions. From trendy t-shirts and lightweight dresses to breathable shorts, everything consumers need to beat the heat and embrace the summer vibes.

“At Lucky Brand, we expect the unexpected every single day. That’s why we’re excited to bring you our Cool in Cotton collection, a partnership with Cotton Incorporated, offering on-trend and seriously comfortable style,” said Michael DeLillis, EVP Head of Marketing for Lucky Brand and Sparc Group. “We hope they’ll make our customer feel a little more confident to take some bold chances this summer and make their own luck.”

“Lucky Brand’s Cool in Cotton collection showcases the latest fashion trends, so the wearer can be their authentic self without compromising on comfort or style,” says Marissa Barlin, director of brand partnerships for Cotton Incorporated. “We are creating the ideal vibe with cotton, the fabric of a classic American summer season.”

Consumers can visit The Cotton Shop at LuckyBrand.com and in stores to explore the summer collection and update their wardrobes with cool, comfortable, and stylish cotton clothing. The collaboration runs now through July 11, 2024.

About Lucky Brand:

WEAR LUCKY. FEEL LUCKY. Lucky Brand was founded in 1990 with a spirit of reinvention. Rooted in premium denim, Americana and self-expression, our brand is for the free-thinkers and the optimists who don’t take life too seriously. Our denim and lifestyle wares portray personality through perfectly imperfect, often American heritage inspired details that bring levity to any look, or situation. Wear Lucky and make good fortune. Feel lucky, and you’ll find it.

Shop Lucky Brand in freestanding store locations across North America, select department stores and on luckybrand.com.

About Cotton Incorporated: 

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, follow along on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Pinterest, and YouTube.

For media inquiries, please contact: 

Ryan Vulcan, associate director of corporate communications for Cotton Incorporated

Email: RVulcan@CottonInc.com

Images Courtesy of Lucky Brand

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CARY, N.C. (May 16, 2024) – Cotton Incorporated encourages consumers to commemorate the 151st anniversary of the birth of blue jeans, an iconic symbol of American fashion and innovation. One way to participate is recycling cotton denim, and learning more about circularity of cotton and it uses beyond fashion. So, on this special occasion, we encourage readers to participate in our nationally recognized Blue Jeans Go Green program. 

On this day in 1873, the landscape of apparel was forever changed when the first blue jeans were patented. “The invention of blue jeans marked a pivotal moment in the history of fashion,” said Andrea Samber, Director of Brand Partnerships, Cotton Incorporated. “From their humble beginnings as functional work attire to becoming a global fashion staple, blue jeans have captured the imagination of people across generations and cultures.” 

In addition to celebrating the rich history of blue jeans, Cotton Incorporated highlights the Blue Jeans Go Green program, which collects denim to be recycled in creative ways – from building efforts, pet bed inserts, thermal food packaging, and more. Since its inception, the Blue Jeans Go Green program has diverted millions of pounds of denim from landfills and provided insulation for over 2,000 homes across the United States.  Over 5,200,000 pieces of denim and 2,630 tons have been recycled through the program. 

Through the Blue Jeans Go Green initiative, we can extend the lifespan of denim while providing sustainable solutions for communities in need, said Samber. “It’s a testament to the enduring impact of blue jeans beyond the realm of fashion.” 

Since 2006, over 100 brands and retailers have collaborated with the program. 

The Blue Jeans Go Green program is just one of the ways consumers can close the loop on cotton sustainability. Denim recycling is possible because it’s made from cotton, which is a sustainable, natural fiber. Through resale, renewal and upcycling, consumers can help keep the lifecycle of cotton going.  

Well-made cotton apparel is durable, making it a perfect match for the blossoming secondhand market where it can be reused repeatedly. Textiles made of 100% cotton can be recycled and may be used to create new products. After it can no longer be reused or recycled, cotton products can be discarded. Cotton can degrade in industrial compost, wastewater, salt water and freshwater environments, and it also degrades faster than manufactured cellulosic fibers like rayon and oil-based synthetics, according to Cotton Incorporated’s Cotton Circular Lifecycle. 

As we celebrate the 151st birthday of blue jeans, Cotton Incorporated invites individuals to join us in supporting the Blue Jeans Go Green initiative. By recycling old denim, you can contribute to environmental sustainability and the community. 

For more information about Cotton Incorporated, the Blue Jeans Go Green program, and how to get involved, please visit https://bluejeansgogreen.org/  

About Cotton Incorporated 

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, follow along on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Pinterest, and YouTube. 

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CARY, N.C. (May 3, 2024) – New research from North Carolina State University and Cotton Incorporated explores the biodegradability of cellulosic microfibers—demonstrating laundered cotton microfibers break down faster than cellulosic microfibers from toilet tissue in wastewater treatment, fresh water, and saltwater environments. Further, microfibers from synthetic materials did not readily biodegrade and were persistent after the testing periods in all environments tested. The researchers showed that cellulosic microfibers from flushable wipes, tissue paper, and cotton fibers generated from bleached cotton jersey knit fabric biodegraded extensively across all tested conditions.

“Since toilet tissue microfibers enter the wastewater treatment system at a rate of 45 pounds per year per person in the United States, they are one of the most significant contributors to cellulosic microfibers. The annual microfiber emissions from toilet paper use in the United States equals the microfiber shedding from washing 1.4 million T-shirts.[1]” said Jesse Daystar, Ph.D., vice president and chief sustainability officer at Cotton Incorporated. “Our research confirms cotton microfibers biodegrade equal to or faster than toilet tissue microfibers in wastewater treatment, fresh water and saltwater environments, demonstrating society’s and nature’s ability to manage them.”

The study also found that the presence of polypropylene in blended nonwoven wipes did not hinder the biodegradation of the cellulose component. This suggests that even when combined in a single product, the cellulosic component can still degrade independently, while the polypropylene remains undegraded.

“These results reaffirm that fibers found in these cellulosic and cotton-based products can biodegrade easily in various environments,” added Mary Ankeny, vice president of product development and implementation operations at Cotton Incorporated. “Our research highlights the importance of choosing natural fibers over synthetic alternatives to reduce the accumulation of non-biodegradable waste in our environment in order to promote a more sustainable future.”

Methodology

This research studied the biodegradation of cotton microfibers, commercially available flushable wipes, polypropylene-based nonwoven wipes with a cellulose component, and toilet tissue. The biodegradation was tested in wastewater treatment plant solids, seawater, and lake water using standard methods in an ECHO respirometer. The experiments continued until carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions plateaued, and the final extent of biodegradation was calculated based on the theoretical CO₂ production derived from elemental analysis.

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is a research and promotion company for upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. To learn more, visit CottonToday.com and follow along on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter.

[1] Calculated based on these assumptions: 1. Tissue paper is composed entirely of microfibers 2. The average weight of a cotton t-shirt is 215 grams 3. The average toilet paper consumption in the US is 20,500 g/person/year. 4. On average, each t-shirt wash releases 0.014 g of microfibers per t-shirt.

Sources:

Vieira, J., Vieira, A., Mendes, A., Carta, A., Fiadeiro, P., Costa, A. (2022). Toilet Paper Perforation Efficiency, BioResources 17(1), 492-503.
Cotton Incorporated. (2017). LCA update of cotton fiber and fabric life cycle inventory.
Jeffrey Kluger, TIME magazine (2023). Now We Need to Worry About Harmful ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Our Toilet Paper Too.
Marielis C. Zambrano et al. (2019). Microfibers Generated from the Laundering of Cotton, Rayon and Polyester Based Fabrics and Their Aquatic Biodegradation, Marine Pollution Bulletin 142: pp. 394-407

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(CARY, NC) – In December, the 2023 class of the Cotton Research and Promotion Hall of Fame was honored at Cotton Incorporated’s Board Annual Meeting. In its tenth year, the Hall of Fame honorees were formally recognized for their contributions to the Program and to the cotton industry during a gala dinner at The Don Cesar hotel in St. Petersburg, Florida.

The 2023 honorees of the Cotton Research and Promotion Program Hall of Fame were chosen from nominations made by Certified Producer and Importer Organizations and voted upon by the Chairman’s Committee of the Cotton Incorporated Board of Directors. The three honorees for the 2023 Cotton Research and Promotion Hall of Fame were James H. “Jimmy” Sanford (Alabama), the late D. D. “Dick” Hardee (Mississippi), and the late Murray Williams (Oklahoma).

• Jimmy Sanford, a fourth-generation cotton producer from Alabama, has played an instrumental role in formulating farm policy as an active participant in every Farm Bill debate since 1981. A graduate from Auburn University, Mr. Sanford has held the role of Chairman of the Alabama Cotton Commission since its inception over 30 years ago. A past president of the National Cotton Council and Southern Cotton Growers, Mr. Sanford currently serves as president of Autauga Quality Cotton Association and as chairman of Choice Cotton, all while managing his 4,000-acre family farm. A champion of securing agricultural research funding, Mr. Sanford is also a past recipient of the Southern Cotton Growers most prestigious “Cotton Producer Recognition Award,” and he was named as the 2022 recipient of the “Cotton Achievement Award” presented by Cotton Grower Magazine.
• Dick Hardee (deceased), a native of Snyder, Texas, was a USDA-ARS research entomologist who was an integral part of the team who helped lead to the eradication of the boll weevil in the U.S. Mr. Hardee received degrees from Texas Tech University and Cornell University before beginning his career in 1964 at the Boll Weevil Research Laboratory at Mississippi State University. While at the research laboratory, he led the team of scientists who were trying to replicate the sex attractant for the boll weevil to develop a pheromone trap to draw out boll weevils from surrounding fields. Spending most of his career working in the cotton industry, Mr. Hardee also worked as a crop consultant, and then as the leader of the Southern Insect Management Research Unit at USDA-ARS’ Jamie Whitten Research Center in Mississippi.
• Murray Williams (deceased)was an innovative grower from Oklahoma who has been recognized on local, state, and national levels for his leadership and dedication to the industry. A proponent for soil and water conservation, Mr. Williams oversaw his family farming operation of over 6,500 acres. In the late 1960s, he was the first grower in Oklahoma to use the new pre-plant herbicide Treflan®. On the forefront of new practices, he was the first in his area to implement the installation of laser-guided drainage pipes, aiding in land production, as well as the first to build tail-water pits to allow for the recycling of irrigation water. Additionally, Mr. Williams donated his land to Oklahoma State University for cotton test plots, helping to further advance cotton production in the state. Along with being on the cutting edge of technology on the farm, he served on the National Cotton Council, the National Cotton Board, and the Cotton Incorporated Board of Directors. For his contributions to the industry, Mr. Williams was recognized by Cotton Farming Magazine as the United States Cotton Farmer of the Year in 1980, and by Progressive Farmer Magazine in 1983 as the Man of the Year in Service to Oklahoma Agriculture.

Jimmy Sanford was in attendance at the awards ceremony and was honored in person. Freida Hardee accepted the award on behalf of her husband, the late Dick Hardee, and Mark Nichols, chairman of The Cotton Board, accepted the award on behalf of the late Murray Williams.

“It is with immense pride that we acknowledged the remarkable accomplishments of Jimmy Sanford, Dick Hardee, and Murray Williams, alongside numerous esteemed industry colleagues, in December,” expressed Berrye Worsham, President and CEO of Cotton Incorporated. “Their enduring dedication and unwavering advocacy have played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of the cotton industry.”

The Cotton Research and Promotion Program was established in 1966 to expand the demand for Upland cotton and to increase the profitability for both cotton growers and importers of cotton products. The Program’s Hall of Fame was formed in September of 2014 and has since honored 27 individuals for their significant contributions to the Program or to the cotton industry in general.

To read more and view videos about all the Research and Promotion Hall of Fame honorees, please visit our website.

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data.

To learn more, visit https://www.cottoninc.com/.

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CARY, N.C. (Feb. 15, 2024) – Cotton Incorporated, a global leader in cotton resources and innovation for the world’s textile industry announces the Cotton Forward 3D Fashion Design Challenge in collaboration with Arts Thread, the world’s leading network for new creatives. This exciting competition challenges students – future industry professionals – to create innovative and sustainable fashion designs using cotton, with a focus on incorporating 3D technology, a first for Cotton Incorporated.

This inaugural competition aims to showcase the creativity and talent of emerging designers while promoting the use of sustainable materials in the fashion industry. By encouraging students to explore cotton as a versatile and natural fabric, the competition aims to inspire the next generation of fashion designers to prioritize sustainability in their work.

“The Cotton Forward 3D Fashion Design Challenge not only celebrates the creativity and talent of young designers but embraces a medium that is the future of the fashion industry with sustainable materials like cotton,” said Megan Peterson, director of marketing and industry programs for Cotton Incorporated.  “Cotton is an integral part of fashion’s future, and we are thrilled to see how students will incorporate digital fabrics from the CottonWorks fabric library into their designs and push the boundaries of innovation.”

Open to students in the U.S. and recent graduates, the competition invites participants to submit their cotton digital fashion creations that integrate 3D design fabric files from Cotton’s FABRICAST^TM collection and demonstrate a strong understanding of cotton’s unique properties. Participants may submit one to three complete, styled fashion looks. Entries will be judged on:

• Innovative use of cotton fabrics
• Design excellence and creativity
• Ability to scale to market.

The three winners will receive prize money and may have their designs featured in the CottonWorks Virtual Showroom, an immersive digital environment for exploring cotton fabrics and inspirational fashion.

Judging the entries:

Clare Tattersall, founder of Digital Fashion Week and curator of The Drip, a haute couture digital fashion boutique. Tattersall has over two decades of experience innovating at the intersection of fashion and technology.

 Malie Bingham, senior creative applications development Manager at Ralph Lauren. Bingham works on major projects visual line planning and 3D product creation to bring together multiple technologies for an end-to-end product lifecycle workflow.

Soojin Kang, assistant professor of fashion technology at the Parsons School of Design. Kang’s extensive experience with brands and designers and deep knowledge of virtual simulation technology informs her research on the intersection of sustainability, fashion innovation and digital transformation.

Katherine Absher, fashion and digital design manager for Cotton Incorporated. Absher creates and manages the CottonWorks Digital Fabric Library and CottonWorks Virtual Showroom, creates 3D marketing content and digital product creation educational content for the company.

The deadline for submission is May 17, 2024. To learn more about the CottonWorks Cotton Forward 3D Fashion Design Competition and how to enter, visit artsthread.com/competitions/cotton-forward-3d-fashion-design-challenge. Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #CottonForward3D and stay updated on the latest news and announcements from Cotton Incorporated CottonWorks and Arts Thread.

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, follow along on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Pinterest, and YouTube.

About CottonWorks^TM

 Cotton Incorporated’s CottonWorks program serves as a key industry resource for professionals and emerging talents in the apparel and textile industry. Providing valuable insights and an extensive collection of resources, including research, informative videos, market and trend analyses, the program enhances expertise in product development, sourcing, and marketing. Explore these resources by visiting CottonWorks.

About Arts Thread

Arts Thread is the world’s leading digital platform for emerging artists & designers and a launchpad for the next generation of creative talent. Arts Thread has built relationships with over 1000 creative institutions connecting to over 400,000 students in 140 countries.

Learn more by visiting Arts Thread or follow on Instagram, X, YouTube, Pinterest and LinkedIn.

About Cotton Forward 3D Fashion Design Challenge

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Open to US residents over age 18 who are enrolled in or have graduated from college within the last two years (2023, 2022 and 2021 graduates). Entry period ends on 05/17/2024 at 11:59pm ET. Subject to Competition Terms and Conditions at https://artsthread.com/competitions/cotton-forward-3d-fashion-design-challenge. Sponsor: Arts Thread Limited, 4 Cannon Lane, Pinner, Middlesex, HA5 1HL, United Kingdom.

Media Contacts

Ryan Vulcan, RVulcan@CottonInc.com

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Cary, N.C. (October 30, 2023) – America Recycles Day on Nov. 15 reminds Americans the importance of promoting recycling, and Cotton Incorporated celebrates year-round by giving old denim a new purpose and circular life while keeping them out of landfills. Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go Green denim recycling program closes the loop on textile waste by reusing denim made from cotton and recycling well-loved pieces. Since the program’s inception in 2006, over 2,290 tons of denim have been diverted from landfills.

America Recycles Day is a Keep America Beautiful initiative that educates and encourages individuals on how to be more mindful of what they consume. Cotton Incorporated reminds consumers that textiles are recyclable, too. A sustainable wardrobe starts by always checking the label to understand what clothes are made of. If denim is made of at least 90% cotton, users can recycle it through Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go Green program.

“The Blue Jeans Go Green program does good for the Earth by avoiding the landfill and creating new possibilities for communities through their purpose,” Andrea Samber, director brand partnerships for Cotton Incorporated, said. “Thanks to the renewability of denim made from cotton, your well-loved jeans, jackets, and more can be given a new life, from building insulation to pet bed inserts, thermal packaging and beyond. Recycling textiles is important every day, so we hope that America Recycles Day will be an opportunity for Americans to learn about this incredible program and understand how easy it is to get involved.”

Cotton Incorporated launched the Blue Jeans Go Green denim recycling program to encourage denim recycling, generate awareness for cotton sustainability, and create opportunities to make an impact in communities. With nearly 4,580,000 pieces of denim recycled through the program so far, Cotton Incorporated will continue to grow its ongoing commitment to recycling by reducing textile waste.

This America Recycles Day, Cotton Incorporated encourages consumers to join the commitment to recycling and wearing sustainable clothes, like denim made from cotton. Because every piece has potential, every piece can live longer, and every piece can be recycled. To learn more about Cotton Incorporated and the Blue Jeans Go Green Program, visit the website.

 

About Cotton Incorporated:

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, follow along on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Pinterest, and YouTube.

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Cary, N.C. (August 1, 2023) –  With the Back-to-School season quickly approaching, it is a suitable time to refresh clothes and gear for the family. Cotton Incorporated suggests cotton as the perfect choice for Back-to-School clothing, because it is made from natural, sustainable, dependable, hardworking materials. Cotton fabrics are extremely durable and resistant to abrasion and are comfortable to wear because they absorb and release moisture quickly.

Building a core collection of cotton clothing, like socks, shirts/tops, undergarments, and jeans, offers a soft touch and feel to everyday style. Cotton is comfortable and fluffy because cotton fiber is natural. The soft cellulose fibers are water loving and have pores allowing vapor to escape contributing to the cotton’s cozy and breathable feeling. Afterall, it is The Fabric of Our Lives.

Cotton Incorporated’s 2023 Back to School Survey shares that by choosing cotton for Back-to-School shopping needs, the benefits are:

• Cotton is comfortable. Comfortable clothing feels better, and over 76% of consumers said they preferred to have their children dressed in cotton.
• Cotton is for all ages. Over half of parents plan to purchase clothing for themselves while back-to-school shopping. Cotton will provide comfort at work and school.
• Cotton is available in-store and online. With 59% of clothing expected to be purchased in a physical store and 27% planned to be purchased online, cotton is readily available.
• Cotton has the basics you need. Back-to-School shoppers say clothing is one of the top items that will be affected by inflation. That is why it is important to buy the basics, such as cotton shirts, socks, and denim. Cotton’s durability also keeps the garments in consumers’ closets longer, allowing back-to-school basics to be worn and loved for years to come.

To be sure consumers are buying cotton products, check for the Seal of Cotton and for cotton content on labels and product descriptions. Apparel should have at least 60% cotton; jeans should have 90% and sheets and towels should be 100% cotton to reap the benefits of the natural fiber. Authentic denim is made from natural, sustainable cotton, which means it can be re-worn, refashioned, and repurposed. Each recycled piece does good for the earth by diverting textile waste out of landfills and creating new possibilities through the Blue Jeans Go Green program.

To learn more about Cotton Incorporated visit https://www.cottoninc.com/

About Cotton Incorporated:

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, follow along on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and YouTube.

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Cary, N.C. (July 12, 2023) – This year, Cotton Incorporated celebrates the 50^th anniversary of the Seal of Cotton trademark, an iconic logo that transformed cotton from an agricultural commodity into a globally recognized symbol of natural comfort, trust, and sustainability. As the identifying mark and common thread for cotton, the Seal has become an icon for #MadeInCotton everywhere.

The Seal of Cotton was unveiled in 1973 as a symbol of trust, quality, sustainability and reliability to consumers, retailers, and textile brands. It was designed in 1973 by Susan Landor Keegin, daughter of Walter Landor who founded branding giant Landor Associates. Landor Keegin was inspired by seeing the cotton plant’s rigid stem and soft boll growing in the fields, which led her to incorporate the natural elements of cotton by having the word appear as if it were growing from the roots. From there, the Seal of Cotton was born, allowing for easy recognition of the fiber and differentiation from synthetic fibers.

“The assignment was to find a way to stand up against synthetics,” recalls Susan Landor Keegin of Landor Associates. “I was going to see relatives who lived in the area and saw cotton growing in the fields with the bolls puffed up. Something about seeing it in person, the rigidity of the stem and the softness of the boll, I had never seen that.”

Today, the Seal of Cotton is used by over 950 brands in nearly 70 countries, becoming a global symbol associated with fashion, durability, quality, and sustainability. Nearly 8 in 10 consumers (78%) have awareness for the Seal, according to Cotton Incorporated’s 2023 Seal of Cotton Consumer Research, allowing shoppers to make mindful purchasing decisions on a natural, sustainable fiber that’s known and trusted. Over 80% of consumers say that they can rely on a brand and its product when it features the Seal of Cotton, while 90% prefer the fabric because of its comfort and versatility.

In today’s retail environment, 46% of consumers in the United States are willing to pay more for a brand that they trust. The Seal of Cotton serves as a trusted resource by consumers, brands and retailers. When the Seal is used on a product, four out of five consumers believe that the brand is more trustworthy (79%), more authentic (80%), and one they would likely purchase (84%). This symbol has been easing the consumers’ journey for the past 50 years and, when present on a product, shows that it is reliable, transparent and high-quality.

“The 50th anniversary of the Seal of Cotton is a celebration of a highly-recognizable icon that brings consumers a sense of emotional and physical comfort and familiarity,” says, Kim Kitchings, senior vice president, consumer marketing for Cotton Incorporated. “Cotton has been woven throughout the eras of American culture and is part of monumental moments in each one of our lives. Fifty years of marketing and innovation has earned consumer affection, with over 90% stating that cotton is a preferred choice because of its comfort, softness, and versatility. We’re proud that the Seal of Cotton garners more than two times the awareness of other fiber logos and is a favored fabric.”

The Seal of Cotton has grown over the years and is a preferred choice by manufacturers, brands, and consumers. It has made its mark on history from the 1980’s advertising campaign, “True Performance,” which introduced the symbol on millions of retail garments, to the development for the Blue Jeans Go Green denim recycling program in 2006, designed to repurpose denim into new products while diverting textile waste from landfills.

“The REVOLVE customer looks to Cotton as a leader in sustainability and quality, and with the Seal of Cotton, they are promised comfort and versatility with every purchase,” says Raissa Gerona, chief brand officer, REVOLVE. “We’re so honored to have worked alongside Cotton and supported their efforts to introduce more green, sustainable practices within the fashion industry. Cheers to 50 years and what’s to come!”

Cotton Incorporated celebrates the Seal of Cotton through the brand’s latest ad campaign focusing on the power of nostalgia, reminding consumers how powerful memories and fashion styles over the decades have one common thread: cotton. The campaign runs on television, streaming services and through digital partners. Additionally, Cotton Incorporated developed an exclusive iteration of the Seal for the 50^th anniversary and the celebration continues throughout the year with additional activities in the coming months.

To celebrate the Seal of Cotton’s 50^th anniversary, Cotton Incorporated is encouraging consumers to check the label for the Seal of Cotton on clothing or home good products, posting on social media with the hashtag #MadeinCotton. You can find more information on the anniversary and Seal of Cotton’s history here.

About Cotton Incorporated:

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, https://lifestylemonitor.cottoninc.com.

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CARY, N.C. (June 29, 2023) – New consumer research from Cotton Incorporated finds that half of adults surveyed are familiar with microplastic pollution, and fewer are taking action to minimize microplastic pollution when it comes to their clothing choices. The quantitative online survey of 527 U.S. adults found that 49% are familiar with the term “microplastics,” and among these, 52% of those surveyed recognized that clothing made from synthetic materials, like polyester, impacts the problem of microplastic pollution. Adults who are familiar with microplastic pollution are most likely to identify plastic bags (76%) and microbeads (61%) from health and beauty products as contributors, reinforcing the need for further education and awareness.^[1]

When asked what actions consumers took to reduce their contribution to microplastic pollution, 64% of respondents familiar with microplastic pollution said they carried reusable tote bags, 63% said they used refillable water bottles, and 49% said they used reusable straws (or no straws). Only 38% of respondents said they purposely chose to wear clothing made out of natural fibers instead of synthetic materials, while 35% said they check the label on clothing before purchase to see if it is made from natural fibers.¹

Microplastic pollution has a growing impact on our lives, and a study conducted by the University of Newcastle estimates that each person consumes, on average, up to a credit card’s worth (0.17 ounces) of microplastics by weight every week. Microplastic fibers generated from textiles during laundry represent 35% of these fibers, meaning the clothing we wear, and wash has a direct impact on microfiber pollution.

“Numerous studies have demonstrated that cotton microfibers biodegrade readily in wastewater treatment conditions, freshwater, and seawater, unlike synthetic microfibers that do not easily degrade and persist in the environment for long periods,“ said Dr. Jesse Daystar, vice president, and chief sustainability officer, Cotton Incorporated. “Despite the proven environmental benefits of choosing a natural fiber like cotton, we do not see intentional behavior change to avoid plastic pollution – like switching single-use bottles for refillable containers. As we enter Plastic Free July, we encourage everyone to swap synthetics with natural fibers for the month, which can help stop the cycle of releasing polluting microplastics in our water sources.”

Biodegradability of Cotton Textile Fibers

Studies published on microfiber and microplastic degradation show that regardless of water type –  lake water, seawater, or wastewater – natural microfibers like cotton readily biodegrade, whereas polyester microfibers essentially do not.

When tested in different aquatic environments, most cotton samples degraded by more than 60% in less than 20 days, and some degraded by as much as 85% over a 100-day test period. In comparison, every sample biodegraded faster and more extensively than an oak leaf.  Another study found that after 35 days in lake water environments, 86% of cotton fibers had biodegraded, while it would take a polyester shirt between 20 and 200 years to decompose under the same conditions completely.

“The presence and biodegradability of textile microfibers shed during laundering and everyday use is an important environmental issue,” said Mary Ankeny, vice president of product development and implementation operations at Cotton Incorporated. “This research demonstrates that cotton biodegrades naturally when it enters the environment, which sets it far apart from synthetic fibers – particularly those made from petrochemicals, like polyester, which shed microplastics into the environment, adding to the significant and growing problem of microplastics in the world’s ecosystems.”

To learn more about how to stop the cycle and reduce microplastic pollution, visit cottontoday.cottoninc.com

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. To learn more, follow along on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter.

¹ Quantitative survey of 527 adults 18 and older in the US to understand the awareness and perception of about microplastics, clothing purchase decisions and decisions around the environment. The survey was conducted using an online data collection methodology through Dynata. The survey was conducted June 15 – 16, 2023.

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CARY, N.C. (March 27, 2023) – This year, Cotton Incorporated celebrates 50 years of the Seal of Cotton, the iconic logo that indicates a product contains cotton. Since 1973, the trademark has come to symbolize the attributes of this natural, sustainable, dependable, hardworking material.

From the home goods we use, like sheets and towels, to the clothes we buy, like jeans, tee shirts and pajamas, we experience the touch, the feel of cotton every day. We rely on it so much so that it’s become The Fabric of Our Lives.

On April 16, Cotton Incorporated encourages you to wear cotton pajamas to work as part of National Wear Pajamas to Work Day. Among the benefits of cotton:

• Cotton is natural. Cotton is a plant grown from the earth. It starts as a flower and matures into a boll with a fluffy interior, which is spun into the soft fabric we know and love.
• Cotton breathes. Cotton is soft, absorbent and breathable. Clothing labels containing at least 60% cotton are considered “cotton-rich” and are less likely to be itchy, irritating, stiff or clingy. Cotton breathes better than oil-based synthetic fabrics like polyester, so it keeps you cool and comfortable.[1]
• Cotton clothes last longer. Cotton keeps its shape. There is such a thing as too much stretch. The more spandex you add to a garment, the higher your chances of sagging, bagging and stretching out. Keep your clothes from getting bent out of shape by looking for less than 5% spandex on the label.
• Cotton is easy to maintain. Cotton is easier to wash and care for than other fabrics, so let your washing machine do your dirty work and enjoy the money you’ll save on dry cleaning.

To be sure, check for the Seal of Cotton and for cotton content. Apparel should have at least 60% cotton, jeans should have 90% and sheets and towels should be 100% cotton to reap the benefits.

Tag us in your National Wear Pajamas to Work Day photos @discovercotton #TheFabricOfOurLives #ShopCotton.

About Cotton Incorporated:

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, follow along on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and YouTube.

[1] Marjory Joseph. Introductory Textile Science, 5th Edition, 1984, pp. 358-359.

Media Contacts:

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CARY, N.C. (March 16, 2023) – For over 50 years, women in and around Cotton Incorporated lead the charge in providing resources and research needed to help companies develop and market superior, innovative and profitable products. The 2023 Women’s History Month theme is Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories. This month, Cotton Incorporated is celebrating women who have had influence in our world through the process of taking cotton from the land to the shelves to ourselves.

Once known as the “Queen of Cotton”, Dr. Ruth Benerito was inducted into the Cotton Hall of Fame in 2019 for her work in cellulose chain segments. Her research was crucial in leading the way to wrinkle-free cotton during her time as a U.S. Department of Agriculture chemist in the 1960s. Dr. Benerito found a way to tame cotton, into a fabric she lovingly called, “wash-wear cotton.” Born in New Orleans, Dr. Benerito received degrees from Tulane University and the University of Chicago before beginning her work for USDA in 1953. For her role in developing “wrinkle-free” (durable press, wash-and-wear) cotton, she was also inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame (2008). She was 97-years-young when she passed away in 2013.

Today, women continue to elevate cotton through Cotton Incorporated for through their leadership in cotton production, research, marketing and as customers. Since it was founded in 1970, the not-for-profit company does not manufacture or sell products but conducts research to benefit every link on the cotton supply chain and develops promotions that encourage the use and desirability of cotton and cotton products.

As a recognized global authority and resource for all things cotton, the departments of Cotton Incorporated are comprised of women that continually develop resources for each phase. These women difference-makers in the cotton industry and in senior leadership at Cotton Incorporated include, but are not limited to:

• Kimberley S. Kitchings, Senior Vice President, Consumer Marketing
• Vikki Martin, Vice President, Fiber Competition
• Mary Ankeny, Vice President, Product Development & Implementation Operations
• Melissa Bastos, Director, Corporate Strategy and Consumer Insights
• Linda DeFranco, Director, Fashion Marketing
• Susan Yvonne Jaconis, Ph.D., Director of Agricultural Research (cottonseed and plant physiology)
• Kaitlyn Bissonnette, Ph.D., Director of Agricultural Research (plant pathology and nematology)
• Sally Taylor, Ph.D., Director of Agricultural Research (entomology)

The following Cotton Board members were recently highlighted by the organization on The Fabric of Our Lives^TM site:

• Kathy Fowler, Cotton Producer
• Rebecca Thom, 4^th Generation Farmer, Farm Manager
• Emily Gigot, Sr Sustainability Manager
• Barbara Buhr, SVP of Global Sourcing for Destination XL
• Sonja Chapman, Cotton Board Chairwoman

Through Cotton Incorporated, cotton became the first commodity to market directly to the consumer. The icon for this outreach was the Seal of Cotton trademark, a logo indicating that the product contains cotton. Since its introduction in 1973, the Seal of Cotton has been used on a variety of cotton-containing and cotton-related products, from apparel and beauty products to laundry detergent. The Company’s 1989 The Fabric of Our Lives^TM campaign conveyed the emotional connection between cotton and consumers, and how cotton touches our lives every day.

About Cotton Incorporated:

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, follow along on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube.

Media Contacts:

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CARY, N.C. (March 13, 2023)– For over 50 years, Cotton Incorporated leads the charge in providing resources and research needed to help companies develop and market superior, innovative and profitable products. With U.S. cotton production on the rise in 2023, the company aims to ensure that cotton remains the first choice among consumers in apparel and home products while also providing sustainable solutions through every stage of the cotton life cycle.

Since it was founded in 1970, the not-for-profit company does not manufacture or sell products but conducts research to benefit every link on the cotton supply chain and develops promotions that encourage the use and desirability of cotton and cotton products.

As a recognized global authority and resource for all things cotton, the departments of Cotton Incorporated are comprised of experts that continually develop resources for each phase including:

• Market Data – the company develops corporate strategy and program metrics based on market data including economic factors, supply and demand as well as supply chain insights.
• Cotton Production – cotton growers, ginners and their support industries are provided research and technical services through the Agriculture and Environmental Research department who utilizes leading Universities and other research facilities in a wide range of disciplines to improve the profitability of cotton through the creation and utilization of knowledge.
• Quality Products – research labs improve cotton by focusing on nonwoven innovations, product development, trend analysis, and modern dyeing and finishing techniques.
• Consumer Marketing – cotton is woven throughout the everyday lives of consumers and through the research and innovations conducted it is imperative to convey the emotions and feelings behind the way cotton impacts our everyday lives.

Through Cotton Incorporated, cotton became the first commodity to market directly to the consumer. The icon for this outreach was the Seal of Cotton trademark, a logo indicating that the product contains cotton. Since its introduction in 1973, the Seal of Cotton has been used on a variety of cotton-containing and cotton-related products, from apparel and beauty products to laundry detergent. The Company’s 1989 “The Fabric of Our Lives” campaign conveyed the emotional connection between cotton and consumers, and how cotton touches our lives every day.

In more recent years innovative programs such as the Blue Jeans Go Jean denim recycling program and dynamic events such as Cotton’s 24-Hour Fashion Show and Cotton’s 60-second Runway Show showcase the range of cotton and cotton-rich apparel offered by well-known brands, retailers and designers.

About Cotton Incorporated:

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. For more information or to learn more, follow along on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube.

Media Contacts:

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(CARY, NC) – Cotton Incorporated announces today the appointment of William Kimbrell as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the company. This new position was created by Cotton Incorporated’s Board of Directors following the current President and Chief Executive Officer, J. Berrye Worsham’s retirement announcement effective December 2024.  The position is in alignment with Cotton Incorporated’s Succession Plan toward the transition to be potentially named President and CEO, which requires a Board vote in December 2024.

“We feel confident in William’s ability to continue to progress within the company” notes Cotton Incorporated Board Chairman, James Johnson. “We’ve been anticipating the activation of the succession plan for several years and are pleased with the outcome.”

J Berrye Worsham – President and Chief Executive Officer

Kimbrell is a 20-year veteran of Cotton Incorporated. After graduating from North Carolina State University with a degree in Textile Management, he achieved his MBA with a concentration in Supply Chain Management. He applied this background in various positions with Cotton Incorporated including fiber processing as well as several roles in the Global Supply Chain Marketing division from technology management to marketing in Asia, where he was most recently named vice president.

His international business travel has provided an opportunity to conduct technology marketing and strategy meetings with mills, brands and retailers in 24 countries globally. Now named executive vice president, chief operating officer, Kimbrell will continue in his current role as vice president, supply chain marketing Asia, until his successor is identified.

“The combination of William’s technical skills along with the breadth of global supply chain marketing experience over 20 years, provide the right background to help keep cotton in the forefront of the global textile industry,” notes current President and CEO, J. Berrye Worsham. “I feel confident about William’s leadership for the company and the industry.”

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data.  To learn more, visit www.cottoninc.com.

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Over the past year, there has been misinformation linking cotton to a lack of availability and increased cost to the consumer of period products, including tampons.

In fact, while there has been growth in cotton usage in tampons over the years, many of the main components of these period products are synthetic or manmade and do not contain cotton. Recent reports put cotton’s market share in the nonwovens category at just 1.7 percent,¹ a small portion, considering two-thirds of consumers assume cotton is the main material used in their period products due to the absorbency and appearance.²

While manufacturers may have encountered challenges with their supply chains, there is not a lack of physical supply of cotton in the market at the world-level according to 2021/2022 USDA statistics. Volatile buying patterns and aggravated localized shortages have contributed to cotton price volatility across a wide range of products, during and post COVID, according to Cotton Incorporated’s senior economist, Jon Devine. However, Devine indicates that the market has evolved and there has been a major shift since the spring of 2022.

“The U.S. and the world have entered into a new economic phase, with inflation and rising interest rates suggesting slower rates of growth,” states Devine. “Concerns about a slowing consumer environment have already enabled price decreases in several commodity markets, including the one for cotton fiber.”

To learn more about the Facts About Cotton in Tampons, please visit the CottonWorks website.

Click here to learn more about the cotton market and price outlook.

Sources

1. The Future of Global Nonwovens to 2027, Smithers
2. Cotton Incorporated’s Global Hygiene Study, 2020

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In December, the 2022 class of the Cotton Research and Promotion Hall of Fame was honored at the joint Cotton Board and Cotton Incorporated annual meeting. After a two-year hiatus, the seventh class of Hall of Fame honorees was formally recognized for their contributions to the Program and to the cotton industry during a gala dinner at the Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans, LA.

The 2022 honorees of the Cotton Research and Promotion Program Hall of Fame were chosen from nominations made by Certified Producer and Importer Organizations and voted upon by the Chairman’s Committee of the Cotton Incorporated Board of Directors. The two honorees for the 2022 Cotton Research and Promotion Hall of Fame were Steve Verett (Texas) and Kenneth Hood (Mississippi).

• • Steve Verett, a native of Crosby County, Texas, has firsthand knowledge of the challenges that face Texas cotton growers as a partner in his family’s farming operation. This has allowed him to be at the forefront of identifying issues and advocating for research to help cotton producers. Mr. Verett graduated from Texas Tech University and has held leadership positions with the Plains Cotton Growers, the National Cotton Council’s Cotton Leadership Program, the Texas Food and Fiber Commission, and the American Cotton Producers Farm Policy Task Force. He has had integral roles in the development of agricultural policy at various levels and has always been a strong supporter of producer-driven research activities. Working directly with producers as well as members of Congress, he helped develop farm bills and facilitate successful farm policies and research provisions, including returning cotton as a covered commodity under the 2014 Farm Bill legislation.

• Kenneth Hood (deceased) was a pioneer in precision agriculture technologies and was a vital part in the development of the boll weevil eradication program. A native of Mississippi, Mr. Hood represented the industry at local, state, and national levels, serving on the Bolivar County Farm Bureau, the Southern Cotton Ginners Association, and the National Cotton Council of America among others. His accomplishments and leadership in the industry also allowed him to be recognized with several distinctions including Cotton Farming’s Cotton Farmer of the Year, New York Cotton Exchange Cotton Marketer of the Year, and the Cotton Grower Magazine’s Cotton Achievement Award.

Steve Verett was in attendance at the awards dinner and honored in person. Bernie Jordan, a cotton producer from Mississippi and chairman of Cotton Incorporated, accepted the award on behalf of the late Mr. Hood.

“It was a great honor to recognize the outstanding achievements made by Mr. Verett and Mr. Hood with so many of their industry colleagues in December,” said Berrye Worsham, president and CEO of Cotton Incorporated. “Their long-term commitments and advocacy have helped shape the cotton industry.”

The Cotton Research and Promotion Program was established in 1966 to expand the demand for Upland cotton and to increase the profitability for both cotton growers and importers of cotton products. The Program’s Hall of Fame was formed in September of 2014 and has since honored 24 individuals for their significant contributions to the Program or to the cotton industry in general.

To read more and view videos about all the Research and Promotion Hall of Fame honorees, please visit our website.

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data.

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November 2, 2022

BACKGROUND:

The peak holiday shopping season has arrived. The question is now how, where, and when will consumers shop this year? Each year, Cotton Incorporated’s Lifestyle Monitor^TM survey asks buyers how they plan on tackling gift giving to offer brands and retailers a preview of their shopping intentions.

On November 2, 2022, Director of Corporate Strategy and Insights for Cotton Incorporated, Melissa Bastos discussed the results of the survey and how consumers are planning on shopping this holiday season. She also shared details on consumers feelings on in-store and online shopping.

THE 2022 SURVEY REVEALS:

• About half of shoppers plan to shop for their holiday gifts in physical stores.
• This year’s top purchasing categories are:
  • Clothing
  • Gift Cards
  • Toys
• Shoppers say they research their gifts before buying and look for gift inspiration from social sites
• Shoppers say they won’t start buying until November, with the majority looking to buy over Black Friday and Cyber Monday
• Even with inflation, most buyers plan to spend about the same on gifts as last year

For more information please visit: lifestylemonitor.cottoninc.com and https://thefabricofourlives.com/shop

MORE ABOUT MELISSA BASTOS:
Melissa leads research, analysis, and presents consumer and retail behaviors across the globe. She directs the development of corporate performance measures, corporate strategy, and strategic research including global consumer attitudinal and behavioral studies as well as product assessments, such as the Cotton Incorporated Lifestyle Monitor and Retail Monitor.

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data

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Cotton Incorporated announced today the 2022 class of the Cotton Research and Promotion Hall of Fame. The program, now in its seventh year after a two-year hiatus, recognizes individuals that have made significant contributions to the Program or to the cotton industry in general. The honorees will be formally inducted into the Cotton Research and Promotion Program Hall of Fame at the joint Cotton Incorporated/Cotton Board Annual Meeting this December in New Orleans.

The two honorees for the 2022 Cotton Research and Promotion Hall of Fame are Steve Verett (Texas) and Kenneth Hood (Mississippi).

The Cotton Research and Promotion Program was established in 1966 to expand the demand for Upland cotton and to increase profitability for both cotton growers and importers of cotton products.

“After two years, it is wonderful to once again be able to honor those who have helped shape and advance the modern cotton industry,” says Berrye Worsham, president and CEO of Cotton Incorporated. “The 2022 Hall of Fame inductees have been pioneers in the research and technology developments in the industry, providing crucial leadership roles and serving as advocates for the growers.”

The 2022 honorees of the Cotton Research and Promotion Program Hall of Fame were chosen from nominations made by Certified Producer and Importer Organizations and voted upon by the Chairman’s Committee of the Cotton Incorporated Board of Directors.

• Steve Verett, a native of Crosby County, Texas, has firsthand knowledge of the challenges that face Texas cotton growers as a partner in his family’s farming operation. This has allowed him to be at the forefront of identifying issues and advocating for research to help cotton producers. Mr. Verett graduated from Texas Tech University and has held leadership positions with the Plains Cotton Growers, the National Cotton Council’s Cotton Leadership Program, the Texas Food and Fiber Commission, and the American Cotton Producers Farm Policy Task Force. He has had integral roles in the development of agricultural policy at various levels and has always been a strong supporter of producer-driven research activities. Working directly with producers as well as members of Congress, he helped develop farm bills and facilitate successful farm policies and research provisions, including returning cotton as a covered commodity under the 2014 Farm Bill legislation.

• Kenneth Hood is a pioneer in precision agriculture technologies and was a vital part in the development of the boll weevil eradication program. A native of Mississippi, Mr. Hood has represented the industry at local, state, and national levels, serving on the Bolivar County Farm Bureau, the Southern Cotton Ginners Association, and the National Cotton Council of America among others. His accomplishments and leadership in the industry have also allowed him to be recognized with several distinctions including Cotton Farming’s Cotton Farmer of the Year, New York Cotton Exchange Cotton Marketer of the Year, and the Cotton Grower Magazine’s Cotton Achievement Award.

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data.

To learn more, visit www.cottoninc.com.

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Cotton Incorporated is honored to collaborate with industry leaders to focus on increasing the adoption of climate smart agriculture practices, as part of the USDA Partnership for Climate-Smart Commodities pilot projects.

The project will build markets for Climate Smart Cotton and provide technical and financial assistance to over 1,000 U.S. cotton farmers to advance adoption of climate smart practices on more than one million acres.  This will allow the production of more than four million bales of Climate Smart Cotton over five years.

“The Climate Smart Cotton Program brings together USDA with private industry resources to increase the production and demand for Climate Smart Cotton that will help the U.S. cotton industry meet the ten-year sustainability goals,” notes Jesse Daystar, Ph.D., vice president and chief sustainability officer for Cotton Incorporated. “The U.S. Climate Smart Cotton Program presents a terrific opportunity to leverage Cotton Incorporated research and increase the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices that improve soil health as well as benefit farmers and the environment.”

The project is an initiative that also includes the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol, the National Cotton Council’s export arm Cotton Council International, the Soil Health Institute, Soil and Water Outcomes Fund, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Agricenter International, Alabama A&M University, and North Carolina A&T State University.

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data.  For more information about cotton and sustainability, visit CottonToday.CottonInc.com

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Cotton Incorporated and Adobe collaborated to demonstrate and showcase a new material workflow using Adobe Substance 3D applications, designed to unify digital and physical materials. As a result, the two organizations developed a new collection of virtual materials, that precisely represent manufacturable physical fabrics. Available through the Adobe Substance 3D Assets library and on Cottonworks.com, the collection blends the flexibility and rapid visualization potential of digital materials with the benefits of traditional material sourcing. Leveraging Adobe Substance 3D applications, the workflow to create the collection uses scan and procedural creation and allows design and development teams to innovate with confidence, bridging the long-standing gap between digital and physical.

In 2022, the apparel and footwear industries rely heavily on digital fabrics as a cornerstone of digital product creation – the various processes through which brands have replaced physical product samples, simulated new designs, sold to consumers through virtual photography, and continued to collaborate with suppliers during the pandemic.

Faced with the challenge of now scaling digital product creation (DPC) strategies enterprise-wide, fashion brands and retailers seek to borrow best practices and toolsets from other industries – tools like Adobe’s leading Substance 3D suite of material authoring and texturing applications – and to adapt them to fit the needs of fashion. Foremost among these needs is the requirement for digital fabrics to look and behave in precisely the same way as physical fabrics, to avoid creating an all-too-common disconnect between 3D digital assets and the eventual end product.

Bridging that gap between virtual and physical, the Cotton Incorporated and Adobe Substance 3D collaboration shows a flexible, time-saving material digitization workflow through a new fabric collection, allowing brand and retail organizations to design digitally, with complete confidence that the fabrics they are using are backed by full composition details that can be shared with mills and fabric suppliers to create an identical physical output.

Cotton Incorporated, a global research and marketing organization dedicated to advancing the use of cotton and digital tools in the supply chain, conceived of the idea for the new collection as a way of building on its pioneering work in digitizing cotton-rich fabrics at the source. To ensure that the collection would be as widely-usable and as accurate as possible, it partnered with Adobe Substance, the leading toolset for 3D texturing and digital material authoring. As a result, the collection comprised of 6 materials, designed with Adobe Substance 3D applications, brings together virtual, parametric fabrics for use in any 3D environment that supports the flexible, powerful, parametric SBSAR format, with accurate physical construction and composition information, ensuring that products designed digitally can be manufactured without compromise. More than digital twins, the Substance 3D materials uses scan and procedural techniques for higher level of control, allowing a vast number of possible variations while remaining in the realm of feasibility.

“Cotton Incorporated was the first fiber company to offer an extensive, free inventory of digital cotton fabrics, allowing a huge range of products to be born digitally, and we recognized an industry need for that work to reach the next level” says Katherine Absher, fashion and digital design manager for Cotton Incorporated. “Working in collaboration with Adobe Substance 3D, we’re now expanding on that vision – allowing designers to create in 3D, using virtual, parametric cotton materials, safe in the knowledge that the recipe for those materials can be shared with suppliers, so the finished, physical article is precisely what the designer intended. This solves one of the industry’s most acute pain points at the same time as cutting down waste, controlling costs, and improving sustainability.”

The new collection of parametric cotton fabric design files is being made available to fashion community, as a download from Adobe Substance 3D Assets (https://substance3d.adobe.com/assets), the 3D assets platform with thousands of customizable assets made with Adobe Substance 3D applications, and from cottonworks.com, the cotton resource for textile professionals.

By combining Cotton Incorporated’s expertise in fabric construction with Adobe Substance 3D digital material authoring software, the joint team set about creating this unique collection by identifying the most relevant material parameters for both creative and commercial fashion teams, and ensuring that these were consistent across both physical and digital fabrics – to an exacting degree that takes full advantage of Adobe Substance 3D applications and that can be reproduced by any brand or individual using the unique Adobe Substance 3D Ecosystem:

“We digitized the fabric collection using two complementary techniques: scan and procedural creation, allowing users to obtain photorealistic results in record time.” says Nicolas Paulhac, Head of 3D Content at Adobe Substance 3D. “The created assets are adaptable to every design workflow, thanks to native integrations with the main fashion design tools (CLO, Browzwear, Lectra, etc.) as well as with every realtime and offline 3D app (Unity, Unreal, Chaos V-Ray, or others). This is an opportunity to create a single library of digital assets that can be used seamlessly at all levels of the fashion design process.”

Adobe Substance artist Pauline Boiteux completed a full set of materials from scans in a few hours. The whole process including the procedural materials was finalized in just two days. The process eliminates the need to scan all the samples of a range, one capture is enough and using Substance 3D Designer, all the color variations can be added in accurately thanks to the color management system. And because they are procedural, the digital fabric parameters can be tailored by users.

For more insight into the process of creating the collection, and an overview of how bridging the gap between digital and physical materials could transform digital product creation workflows, register for the free online workshop https://my.demio.com/ref/mlp4y8tb8iOgps4Q.

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data. Cotton Incorporated’s CottonWorks program is an online resource providing textile professionals and students with the essential fiber-to-fashion knowledge, expert problem solving, up-to-date research, and inspiration needed to navigate the future of cotton and textiles. For more information, visit cottonworks.com

Image Credit: Image Courtesy of Adobe Substance 3D and Cotton Incorporated. CottonWorks™ is a trademark of Cotton Incorporated © 2022

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SURVEY RESULTS REVEAL WHAT, WHERE AND HOW CONSUMERS PLAN ON SHOPPING PLUS TIPS ON RECYCLING OUTGROWN JEANS

BACKGROUND:

The thrill of a new school year is marked by the anticipation of class assignments and shopping for supplies and new clothes. The question is how the economy will impact back-to-school shopping this year? Each year, Cotton Incorporated’s Lifestyle Monitor survey asks buyers how they plan on tackling back-to-school to offer brands and retailers a preview of their shopping intentions.
Director of Corporate Strategy and Insights for Cotton Incorporated, Melissa Bastos discusses how consumers perspective on inflation are planning to shop for back to school. In addition, she shares details on what to do with old, out-grown clothing to keep it out of landfills.

THE 2022 SURVEY REVEALS:

• 70% of consumer are concerned about the economy with 63% saying it will impact how they spend.
• About 60% of shoppers plan to shop for clothing physical stores with 38% plan to buy online.
• This year’s top categories to buy are:

   87% clothing                     37% accessories
   82% supplies                     33% electronics
   81% shoes                          21% sporting equipment

• Shoppers plan to spend more this year on clothes up 41% from 2021.
• Over 60% of people say they will be taking better advantage of sales, discounts, and promotions
For more information please visit: lifestylemonitor.cottoninc.com and BlueJeansGoGreen.org

MORE ABOUT MELISSA BASTOS:

Melissa oversees research, analysis, and presents consumer and retail behaviors across the globe. She directs the development of corporate performance measures, corporate strategy, and strategic research including global consumer attitudinal and behavioral studies as well as product assessments, such as the Cotton Incorporated Lifestyle Monitor and Retail Monitor.

About Cotton Incorporated’s Blue Jeans Go Green Program

The Blue Jeans Go Green denim recycling program was created in 2006 by Cotton Incorporated as a call-to-action to recycle denim and give it “new life” by transforming it into something new. The program strives to inspire sustainable living by educating people on cotton’s natural lifecycle and engages consumers and local communities by diverting unwanted denim from landfills, helping to close the loop on cotton sustainability while emphasizing the environmental stewardship of the U.S. cotton industry at large. Blue Jeans Go Green is a trademark of Cotton Incorporated.

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data

The post How the Economy Impacts Back-to-School Shopping and What Buyers can do to Save appeared first on Cotton Incorporated.

Rachel Crumbley

Senior Trend Forecaster, Fashion Marketing
Cotton Incorporated

Rachel Crumbley is a Senior Trend Forecaster in the Fashion Marketing Department. In this role, Crumbley researches and develops comprehensive seasonal trend forecasts 18-24 months ahead of the selling season for mills, knitters, converters, manufacturers, designers and retailers. Crumbley also continually conducts extensive research internationally to find the most forward thinking concepts in color, fabric and apparel silhouettes.

Crumbley joined Cotton Incorporated in 2002 and has since provided innovative ideas and product direction to top apparel retailers in the United States. Crumbley graduated from the University of Georgia, with degrees in International Business and Fashion Merchandising, and serves on the Menswear committee on the Color Association of the United States.

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Linda DeFranco

Director, Fashion Marketing
Cotton Incorporated

Linda DeFranco is Director, Fashion Marketing at Cotton Incorporated. In this role, DeFranco oversees the Trend Forecasters who travel worldwide in order to identify the global, cultural and lifestyle trends that influence the direction of textile design and silhouettes at the consumer level. In collaboration with other Cotton Incorporated forecasters, DeFranco presents four interactive presentations each year to designers, manufacturers, retailers, and mills to help them anticipate worldwide trends, including presentations that specialize in denim and the activewear market. Her presentations allow them to plan their production a year and a half to two years in advance.

DeFranco joined Cotton Incorporated in 1999. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University at Albany.

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Jon Devine

Senior Economist
Cotton Incorporated

Jon Devine is Senior Economist in the Corporate Strategy & Program Metrics Division. In this role, Devine conducts economic research, including cotton economic forecasts and other industry-specific analyses.

Devine joined Cotton Incorporated in 2008. Prior to that, he was a graduate student at the University of Maine, where he earned Master of Science degrees in Resource Economics & Policy and in Spatial Information Science & Engineering. He received Bachelor of Arts degrees in Economics and Environmental Studies from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.

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Melissa Bastos

Director, Corporate Strategy and Insights
Cotton Incorporated

Melissa Bastos is the Cotton Incorporated Director, Corporate Strategy and Insights. In her role, Melissa is responsible for directing the development of corporate performance measures, corporate strategy, and strategic research including global consumer attitudinal and behavioral studies as well as product assessments, such as the Cotton Incorporated Lifestyle Monitor and Retail Monitor research, which are conducted in the US, China, Europe, Latin America and India.

For more than 15 years, Melissa has researched, analyzed, and presented consumer and retail behaviors in nearly 20 countries.

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Ed Barnes

Senior Director, Agricultural & Environmental Research
Cotton Incorporated

Dr. Barnes manages agricultural engineering related projects, including ginning, precision farming, irrigation, and conservation tillage system research. Over the course of his career, Ed received two USDA certificates of merit, served on the Editorial Board of Agricultural Water Management, and on the Science Advisory Council of Field to Market, The Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture. He is a Fellow of the American Society of Biological and Agricultural Engineers (ASABE) and has served on their Board of Trustees.

Barnes’ career at Cotton Incorporated began in 2002. Previously, he was Director of Agricultural Research. Prior to his work at Cotton Incorporated, Barnes spent seven years as an Agricultural Engineer for the USDA, Agricultural Research Service at the U.S. Water Conservation Laboratory in Phoenix AZ developing applications of remotely sensed data for agricultural management. He received a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Science degree from North Carolina State University in Biological and Agricultural Engineering, and a Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University in Biosystems Engineering.

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John Kucmierz

Vice President, Administration
Cotton Incorporated

John Kucmierz is Vice President, Administration. In his post, Mr. Kucmierz oversees the Company’s Human Resources and Corporate Office Services departments. He also serves as the Company liaison with Cotton Incorporated’s Board of Directors, the Cotton Board, the National Cotton Council, and USDA.

Mr. Kucmierz joined Cotton Incorporated in 2008 as Director, Human Resources.

Before joining Cotton Incorporated, Mr. Kucmierz spent more than 20 years in the Software and Retail industries. He holds Global Professional Human Resources certification with the Society of Human Resources Management. Mr. Kucmierz earned his Bachelors of Business Administration degree from SUNY Fredonia and a Masters in Adult Education from North Carolina State University.

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Ryan Kurtz

Vice President, Agricultural and Environmental Research
Cotton Incorporated

Kurtz oversees the cotton production research program leading a team of six scientists who develop innovative, problem-solving research to increase the profitability and sustainability of cotton farming in the U.S. cotton industry.

Kurtz joined Cotton Incorporated in 2012 developing and administering an entomology research program aimed at improving production efficiency and profitability as well as reducing cotton’s environmental impact. Kurtz created and served as content director for Cotton Cultivated a resource for Cotton Incorporated’s agriculture research and data trends. Dr. Kurtz received his Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Pest Management from Mississippi State University and his Ph.D. in Entomology at N.C. State University.

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Mary Ankeny

Vice President, Product Development & Implementation Operations
Cotton Incorporated

Mary Ankeny is Cotton Incorporated Vice President, Product Development & Implementation Operations. Mary began her career at Cotton Incorporated as Manager, Textile Research. Before assuming her current role, Mary was Senior Director, Textile Chemistry Research.

During her tenure at Cotton Incorporated, Mary expanded the textile research department and led the department through numerous innovations and implementations. In her new role, Mary reports to Dr. Mike Shen and assists in the development of division strategy, and oversees the day-to-day operations of the Cotton Incorporated PDI laboratories, as well as the internal and external research for the division.

Mary holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Textile Engineering from the Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science, and a Master’s of Science degree from the Institute of Textile Technology in Charlottesville, VA. She has been a member of the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) for 19 years, and currently serves on numerous industry groups including as a board member for the AATCC Foundation Student Research Grant Support Program.

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Vikki Martin

Vice President, Fiber Competition
Cotton Incorporated

Dr. Martin is Vice President, Fiber Competition for Cotton Incorporated. As a third-generation textile worker, Martin leads research on cotton quality measurements, as well as systems that aid with utilizing fiber quality data from the ginning to the spinning portions of the textile industry. She is an expert in fiber differences, laundry care, fiber quality metrics, product testing and evaluation, and traceability.

Martin began her career at Cotton Incorporated in 2001 as a Textile Chemist in the Textile Chemistry Research department, where she played an integral part in the development and implementation of the initial WICKING WINDOWS technology. In 2005 she transitioned to the Fiber Quality Research area where she became responsible for the assembly and reporting of U.S. Upland crop data and management of all outside Fiber Quality Research project activities.

In her current role, as head of the Fiber Competition division, she oversees the development and marketing of a suite of software tools used by merchants and spinning mils to aid with logistics and optimization of cotton usage. Seeing the evolving cotton industry needs, her team has taken on the role of understanding traceability requirements and challenges. Dr. Martin received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Textile Chemistry from North Carolina State University and her Ph.D. in Plant and Soil Science from Texas Tech University.

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Mike Shen

Vice President & Managing Director, Product Development & Implementation
Cotton Incorporated

Dr. Mike Shen is Cotton Incorporated Vice President & Managing Director, Product Development & Implementation. He previously served as the Innovation Director at New Era Cap Company where he developed materials, products, manufacturing methods, and technologies to drive innovation and new business solutions.

Dr. Shen is bilingual and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering and a Master’s degree in Apparel Product Development from Donghua University in China. In addition to holding a Ph.D. in Textile Sciences from the University of Georgia, he has authored six granted and pending U.S. patents and seven publications. He has extensive knowledge of polymers, textiles, product development, technology, and strategic planning. Dr. Shen has 10 years of leadership and 19 years of progressive experience researching, innovating, consulting, and developing textile materials, products, and technologies to drive R&D in the textile and apparel industry for brands such as Adidas and Reebok.

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Jesse Daystar

Vice President, Chief Sustainability Officer
Cotton Incorporated

Dr. Jesse Daystar is Cotton Incorporated Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer. Prior to joining the Company, Dr. Daystar was the Assistant Director at the Center for Sustainability at Duke University, where he collaborated with the Company on a wide range of research projects spanning many of the Company’s divisions.

Dr. Daystar holds a Ph.D. in Forest Biomaterials from N.C. State University and has established himself as a leader in cellulosic fiber sustainability. He has led research and consulting in aspects of product sustainability, biomaterials, biochemicals, and bioenergy. His research has produced numerous publications, sustainability and chemical and engineering tools; and certifications for clients including the USDA and the U.S. Department of Energy.

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William Kimbrell

President and Chief Executive Officer
Cotton Incorporated

A 20-year veteran of Cotton Incorporated, Kimbrell has experience in Research and Development and Marketing.  In his most recent role as Vice President of Supply Chain Marketing Asia, Kimbrell managed marketing teams in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Osaka and was responsible for marketing initiatives across Asia.  He has extensive international experience working with manufacturers, brands and retailers on technology and marketing programs.

Kimbrell attended North Carolina State University receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Textiles, and achieving his MBA with a concentration in Supply Chain Management.

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Headlines have consumers paying attention to the economy. According to a recent survey by Cotton Incorporated, 70% of respondents have a high level of personal concern for the economy with 60% saying they are following inflation news closely.

Like your 401(k) plan, cotton markets can rise and fall with economic conditions. Cotton was one of several commodities that suffered a correction in the second half of June. “Prior to the drop, cotton prices had been trading at the highest levels in a decade. The threat of recession can be expected to keep downward pressure on the cotton market,” says Jon Devine, senior economist for Cotton Incorporated.

Participants in the cotton market always face uncertainty stemming from a range of variables each season. Broad economic conditions are a factor that can affect demand, while the weather can pose questions for supply.

Cotton prices, as of July 12, are 95 cents per pound, which remains strong by historic standards, despite the 25% drop, according to Devine.

While the economic environment should limit gains, there could be support for prices rooted in supply concerns. The U.S. is the world’s largest exporter of cotton, and the most concentrated growing region in the U.S. is West Texas. West Texas is a dry region, getting an average of less than 20 inches of rain per year. Cotton is a drought-tolerant plant, making it a viable crop in that area. However, cotton needs some water to thrive and extreme drought in West Texas raises the possibility that U.S. exports may have to be rationed after the upcoming harvest.

The sharp decline in cotton prices likely will lower grower incomes this year, Devine notes. While cotton is an important regional contributor to rural economies, impacts on the national economy should be limited.

Jon Devine composes a monthly economic letter to track varying conditions of cotton as a commodity.  Learn more from his analysis at https://www.cottoninc.com/market-data/monthly-economic-newsletter/.

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From research journals and news headlines to social posts, there is increasing attention to microplastics in our environment. People are listening and seeking ways to help with change. Forty percent of respondents say they are aware of the concerns that microfibers from clothing are polluting our oceans and waters, according to Cotton Incorporated’s Lifestyle Monitor^TM Survey in February 2022, up from 35% in 2021.

The same survey notes, most consumers (66%) who are aware of microplastic pollution, know that much of this pollution is caused by washing of clothing made from synthetic fibers.

“Cotton’s versatility and durability makes it an ideal ingredient for reusable products,” says Mary Ankeny, vice president of Product Development and Implementation Operations for Cotton Incorporated. “All fabrics shed microfibers or fiber fragments through everyday wash and wear. It’s important to understand the origin of the fiber and what happens in the environment as those fibers build up or break down when developing products and shopping for clothing, sheets, towels, and personal care products.”

In 2020, Cotton Incorporated experts led research to show impacts of fabric fibers.  Cotton microfibers are natural and biodegrade in tested water environments in about a month’s time compared to non-biodegradable synthetic fibers like polyester. Further research in 2021 demonstrated that cotton microfibers treated with common textile finishes, such as silicone softener, durable press finish, water repellent finish, and dye, biodegrade by more than 60% over a period of three months; a rate similar to a natural oak leaf.

“Shocking scientific research about microplastics in our drinking water and the impact plastic pollution is having on our environment is getting people’s attention,” comments Dr. Jesse Daystar, Cotton Incorporated’s vice president and chief sustainability officer.  “Cotton is a plant-based and renewable ingredient. It can pull carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and nourish the soil; it can break down in water or soil.  Discarded fabrics or garments can be recycled into something new. These benefits continue to position cotton as the go-to fiber for the fashion and textile industry looking to change sustainability standards.”  Read more about textile recycling at https://cottontoday.cottoninc.com/our-sustainability-story/circularity/recyclability/.

Tips for minimizing microplastic pollution:

• Check the label for cotton when buying clothing and home goods like sheets and towels
• Wash clothing only when soiled instead after every wear
• Wash in cold water
• Air dry clothing or don’t overpack the dryer to minimize friction

Learn more about cotton fabric care at https://thefabricofourlives.com/care-tips.

Check out the following Cotton Incorporated sites to learn more about cotton as a solution to microplastic pollution from our experts including dedicated content throughout July.

• CottonToday, science-based facts and cotton research for sustainability-focused professionals. Learn more at https://cottontoday.cottoninc.com/our-sustainability-story/microfibers/.
• Lifestyle Monitor^TM, data and analysis supporting brand and retail decision makers. Discover insights at https://lifestylemonitor.cottoninc.com.
• CottonWorks^TM, providing tools and resources for textile professionals and students. Read more at https://www.cottonworks.com/en/topics/sustainability/cotton-sustainability.
• Blue Jeans Go Green^TM consumer denim recycling program, learn more at https://bluejeansgogreen.org/.
• The Fabric of Our Lives®, cotton’s latest styles, fabrics and care tips, visit https://thefabricofourlives.com.

About Cotton Incorporated

Cotton Incorporated  (https://www.cottoninc.com/) is the research and promotion company for Upland cotton. Funded by U.S. cotton growers and importers of Upland cotton-containing products, the not-for-profit organization’s mission is to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. As a resource for the cotton industry, Cotton Incorporated conducts or oversees more than 450 research and educational projects in an average year. Research areas range from the development of agricultural and textile innovations to analyses of commodity and market data.  Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.

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Dr. Shuangxia Jin was selected as the winner of the 2021 Cotton Biotechnology Award. He is a full professor at Huazhong Agricultural University (HZUA). Dr. Jin earned his Ph.D. in 2006 from HZAU and then was a postdoctoral scientist from 2007 to 2012 at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Jin has been working in plant biotechnology for 15 years and his current research involves insects (whitefly/aphid/lygus), cotton / host molecular interaction, and genome editing. Dr. Jin has published more than 60 peer reviewed papers in high impact journals such as Advanced Science, Genome Biology, Nature Communications, Trends in Plant Science, Plant Physiology, and New Phytologist. He is a Senior Editor of Plant Biotechnology Journal (PBJ) and Journal of Cotton Research.

Dr. Jin has made unique and significant contributions to the field of biotechnology in cotton. Dr. Jonathan Wendel, Distinguished Professor at Iowa State University, says this about Dr. Jin: “He is the global leader in cotton transformation technology, having led the development of new genotypes for transformation and regeneration, created the best CRISPR-Cas9 and CRISPR-Cas 12 (12a and 12b) systems for genomic editing, and published methods for revealing unanticipated or undesired (“off-target”) editing.” His research group developed two elite cotton genotypes, YZ-1 and Jin668, with the highest plant regeneration ability and transformation efficiency, increasing the cotton transformation efficiency from 20% in Coker 312 to 90% in YZ-1 and Jin 668.

The Cotton Biotechnology Award, endowed by a gift from Dr. Norma Trolinder in 2000, has been presented on eight previous occasions. The recipient receives a monetary award and a plaque. It is presented to a scientist or group of scientists for outstanding biotechnology research in cotton and is administered by the Agricultural and Environmental Research Department at Cotton Incorporated.

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NEW YORK

The Fabric of Our Lives™ jingle continues to resonate

Celebrating comfort, confidence, and relatability, Cotton Incorporated unveils a new campaign pairing humor with a musical throwback to remind us how cotton fits into our everyday lives.

“One thing we learned from the past year is people seek comfort from familiarity and gain confidence from our favorite clothing whether it’s a soft cotton sweatshirt, power blazer or longtime favorite t-shirt and denim jeans,” says Kim S. Kitchings, senior vice president of Consumer Marketing at Cotton Incorporated. “This campaign captures those emotions through relatable situations and brings a smile in a time when we’re really ready to wear one.”

The campaign features testimonials showcasing the benefits of cotton through the clothes we wear. Audiences meet ‘Rita’ who feels powerful and comfortable in her cotton jumpsuit to take on the dating world. And ‘Jamie’ who feels emboldened to tackle her day and lead her team with confidence — in part because her blazer keeps her cool due to cotton’s natural ability to breathe. The scenarios pair with piano accompaniment and comedic commentary by celebrity singer and television host Carnie Wilson who chimes in with a familiar tune.

“The Fabric of Our Lives is one of those jingles that just stays with you. I can’t remember the first time I heard it. I think it’s always been a part of the American soundtrack,” reflects Carnie Wilson. “The Fabric of Our Lives is a jingle everyone seems to know even if you can’t pinpoint the first time you heard it. It’s fun to think I’m continuing it for my kids and their generation.”

Cotton Incorporated ads have a long tradition to connect our physical comfort of the fabric to our emotional comfort. The original jingle debuted in 1989 to introduce cotton as an integral part of the American experience. The campaign will air on broadcast, streaming and digital outlets beginning on April 12 and will be supported throughout the year on the organization’s social media channels.

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Quitman, Georgia Cotton Grower to Lead the Renowned Research & Promotion Organization

Thursday, February 4, 2021

Cary, North Carolina

Van Murphy, a cotton grower from Quitman, GA, was elected Chairman of the Board of Cotton Incorporated at the Cotton Board and Cotton Incorporated Joint Meeting in December 2020. Murphy brings a long history of service and experience to the Chairmanship, a two-year term that commences in 2021.

“Van Murphy is well-respected in the U.S. cotton industry for his experience, knowledge, and dedication,” says J. Berrye Worsham, President and CEO of Cotton Incorporated. “We look forward to continuing our working relationship with him in his new role.”

Murphy brings a wealth of cotton leadership to the Chairmanship, including his role as Immediate Vice Chair for the Cotton Incorporated Board of Directors and more than a decade of service as a Cotton Board director. Additionally, Murphy is a past president of the National Cotton Ginners Association, a past president of the Southeastern Cotton Ginners Association, and is a past Southeast Ginner of the Year. He also received the Cotton Achievement Award at the 2008 Cotton Grower Achievement Award Luncheon.

Murphy attended Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, GA, then took a position at the Federal and State Inspection Service, covering all commodities. From there he spent five years at the Boston Farm Center. In 1983 Murphy became the first and only executive manager of BCT Gin Co., which serves the three Georgia counties of Brooks, Colquitt, and Thomas.
Murphy currently resides in Quitman, GA, where he and his wife Julie run a farming operation that includes cotton, peanuts, and hay, as well as brood cows and a quarter house operation. Murphy and his wife have been married more than forty years and have two children and two grandchildren.

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The Collection Showcases the Comfort, Style and Versatility of Cotton for Every Holiday Occasion with Celebrity and Content Creators. Available for a Limited-Time at Amazon.com/ShopCotton.

Friday, November 20, 2020

New York, New York

Winter is on its way, and there’s no time like the present to gear up for the holiday season. We all look forward to the holidays and the festive occasions that come along with it, like baking and lounging by the fire, creating family photos and enjoying holiday traditions.

While these occasions may look different this year, we still want to look good, feel good, gift good and have good fun during the most wonderful time of the year. Today, people have changed the way they shop, and finding meaningful and emotional connections is more important than ever. Cotton Incorporated proudly announces the launch of its new limited-time holiday shop, the Cotton Style House – Holiday Edition, available with exclusive content on Amazon”.

Now through December 31, Amazon shoppers can purchase a variety of on-trend cotton apparel, gifting and home items curated by internationally-recognized celebrity stylist Irma Martínez that will fit for every holiday celebration. The collection will bring people together through virtual programming with the goal to create connections across all communities and cultures. Actress Debby Ryan shows us some of her favorite women’s contemporary pieces in the collection, while influencer Daniela Ramirez and her husband show us how to coordinate the family in comfort and style. Custom video content will also help us deck our homes with holiday cheer and find unique gifts– all in cotton. The collection will be available at Amazon.com/ShopCotton.

“The Cotton Style House returns to celebrate the holiday season with chic, cotton-rich styles bringing comfort and joy through the versatility of cotton, vast selections, and ease of purchase,” says Marissa Barlin, director of brand partnerships for Cotton Incorporated. “The collections speak to how consumers anticipate celebrating the season with a focus on personal panache or creating a cozy home.”

From Mara Hoffman to Levi’s, Calvin Klein, and STAUD, amongst other brands, each piece found in the Cotton Style House – Holiday Edition exhibits the versatility and comfort of

cotton. Inspiration was drawn from a range of participating trendsetters including Debby Ryan, Daniela Ramirez, Ryan Clark, Gregory Dava, Coco Bassey, and Jill Wallace, who will be showcasing their favorite go-to cotton finds for the holidays.

The Cotton Style House – Holiday Edition showcases cotton’s ability to bridge lifestyles with programming that will appeal to a range of consumers. Each Cotton Style House – Holiday Edition creator worked alongside Cotton Incorporated and Martínez to curate unique looks that are representative of their lifestyle and personalities. The full list of key content creators and the collection’s apparel categories they represent are:

HOLIDAY CAPSULE STYLES FROM NYE TO NYD

HOME GOODS THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS HOLIDAY GLAM

FAMILY STYLES HOLIDAY SHOPPING HAUL

YOUR DIGITAL FIT

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Cotton Incorporated launches new 3D fabrics for designers and developers

Wednesday, August 3, 2020

Cary, North Carolina

Cotton Incorporated’s CottonWorks, a resource for textile professionals, launches 3D downloadable digital files, taking cotton apparel design to the next level. The FABRICAST collection offers designers and product developers working with two popular design programs access to inspirational and inventive cotton and cotton-rich fabrics for the collaborative design process.

The work-at-home environment, this year, propelled many companies to search for more digital solutions in all aspects of the business including the already emerging 3D design programs.

“3D technology offers a great solution for digital design, fit, merchandising, and marketing. When you connect that digitally with sourcing and manufacturing, we have a winning combination for the apparel industry,” says Krista Schreiber, a veteran industry designer and digital supply chain consultant.

FABRICAST knit and woven fabrics provide new ideas and inspiration for design and development teams. The initial digital offerings showcase trending cotton fabrics with a variety of constructions to illustrate a core selection of pile, texture and drape.

“The digital cotton fabric files cover a wide range,” explains Mark Messura, senior vice president of global supply chain marketing for Cotton Incorporated. “From fleece and herringbone to jacquards, denim, sherpa, and French terry fabrics, they are all there digitally on CottonWorks and ready for download. Every month we will be making new collections of digital cotton fabrics available to designers. It’s part of the continuing innovation for cotton.”

Cotton digital fabric files can be downloaded for CLO and Browzwear programs at cottonworks.com, the cotton resource for textile professionals. CottonWorks is a go-to textile tool for discovering what’s possible with cotton. From fiber and manufacturing education to sustainability facts to fabric inspiration and trend forecasting, cottonworks.com has the resources the industry needs to stay in motion.

About Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. growers of upland cotton and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, is the research and marketing company representing upland cotton. The program is designed and operated to improve the demand for and profitability of cotton.

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Cotton Incorporated survey says shoppers plan to spend 12% more on clothing

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

Cary, North Carolina

As schools and parents across the country consider the best re-opening plans for students in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, shoppers are planning too and there is hope for brands and retailers. Back-to-school clothing shoppers plan to spend about $340 (up 12 percent from 2019) on clothes per person, according to Cotton Incorporated’s Lifestyle Monitor survey.

Two-out-of-five respondents noted they would shop differently this year depending on if their children go back to a classroom. Those back-to-school shoppers say they will purchase more clothing made for:

• comfort (37 percent),
• more loungewear (22 percent),
• less dresswear (17 percent),
• more activewear (17 percent)

When choosing apparel, the majority of buyers say they prefer their child/children’s clothing be made from cotton because its comfortable (78 percent).

“We anticipated back-to-school shopping to look different for consumers across the country,” states Kim Kitchings, senior vice president of consumer marketing for Cotton Incorporated. “It’s reassuring to brands, retailers and growers, that parents plan to buy clothing for the new academic year and they want their students to be comfortable in cotton whether in school, on campus or distance learning.”

More than half (58 percent) of shoppers plan to buy back-to-school clothing in stores, according to Lifestyle Monitor^™ survey, while 42 percent say they’ll shop online. Not surprising, this is up nearly 30 percent from last year’s survey.

Shoppers plan on spending more but are buying less. Here’s what they say they’ll buy on average:

• 8 shirts (down significantly from 11 in 2019)
• 6 undergarments (down significantly from 10 in 2019)
• 7 socks (down significantly from 9 in 2019)
• 4 pants (down significantly from 6 in 2019)
• 4 jeans (down from 5 pairs in 2019)
• 3 activewear items (down significantly from 5 in 2019)

About Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. growers of upland cotton and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, is the research and marketing company representing upland cotton. The program is designed and operated to improve the demand for and profitability of cotton.

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Videos explain nonwoven wipes processes and forecast market growth

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Cary, North Carolina

Get ready to learn more about one of the biggest global nonwoven markets. Cotton Incorporated, a respected global resource for cotton research, furthers its ongoing educational outreach with two new video lectures released through the Cottonworks platform. The lectures provide an overview of nonwoven wipes markets and explore market data, raw materials, and process technologies used in the manufacturing and distribution processes.

According to the latest INDA Worldwide Outlook Report for the Nonwovens Industry, the wipes market has a projected average annual growth rate of 5.3 percent through 2023.

“The nonwoven wipes market continues to be a strong growth area,” says Janet O’Regan, director of nonwovens marketing at Cotton Incorporated. “The purpose of these lectures is to provide information on market segmentation, forecasted growth, raw materials and the technologies associated with nonwoven wipes products.”

The lectures, based on research from North Carolina State University and the INDA Worldwide Outlook Report, are a continuation of the Nonwovens Technical Education series, an extensive collection of nonwovens resources available on Cottonworks. The lectures are designed to educate professionals in the nonwovens industry about different products, processes, and market trends. “This would be a great introduction for business professionals who are just starting out in the industry or a great refresher for anyone already in the wipes market,” says O’Regan.

Individuals seeking to expand their knowledge of the nonwovens industry can go to cottonworks.com and explore the growing, free library of video lectures, marketing and research brochures, sourcing directories, and webinars.

About Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. growers of upland cotton and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, is the research and marketing company representing upland cotton. The program is designed and operated to improve the demand for and profitability of cotton.

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Concerned Consumers Seek Comfort

Wednesday, March 25, 2020

Cary, North Carolina

The response to COVID-19 is altering American life. Social distancing, working remotely, when possible, and the shift of education from public schools to the privacy of living rooms and kitchen tables is the strange, new normal.

To better understand the effects of the pandemic on consumer habits and attitudes, Cotton Incorporated posed a series of questions to 500 U.S. consumers

The responses are largely unsurprising: the majority of consumers are very concerned; some are spending more time shopping online; paying more attention to the news; spending more time on social media; and there is an increased interest in comfort, from food to apparel. But, as the fabric of American life changes, cotton remains The Fabric Of Our Lives.

Consumers are concerned
According to the survey, 66% of consumers say that they are “very afraid these days,” with more women (72%) than men (57%) expressing fear. Personal concern increased with age, with a majority of consumers forty-five years and older saying they are very concerned with the current pandemic (56%), followed by those 25 – 44 (40%) and 14 – 24 (18%).

Comfort helps consumers cope
As a result of the crisis, 71% of consumers say that they are watching more television; 67.2% say they are consuming more news; 62.8% claim they are wearing comfortable clothes more often; and 52.4% say that they eating more comfort food/snacks.

Consumer spending reactions vary
According to survey responses: 35.8% of consumers are spending more or significantly more money than they were before the crisis; roughly 30% of consumers (30.4%) say they are spending about the same amount of money; and slightly more than one-third of respondents (33.9%) claim to be spending less.

Most consumers shopping online the same amount
When asked whether they were spending more, less, or about the same amount of time shopping online, most consumers (46.1%) stated their online shopping was about the same as before the crisis; nearly 32% claimed they were shopping more online; and 14.5% responded they were shopping less. Among those consumers shopping less online, 61.1% cited concerns about their personal economies as the motivation.

Online shopping felt “safer” to 58.9% of respondents, with 48.1% citing the closing of brick-and-mortar outlets as the reason for increased online shipping. Beyond practicality, 46.2% of consumers cited more free time as a reason for increased online shopping, and more than half (56.3%) of respondents cited that online shopping was “fun” or something to do.

Consumers focus on staples during crisis
Consumer responses reveal that more money is being allocated to groceries (57%); household supplies such as toilet paper and cleaning supplies (47.6%); online services (26%); and local food delivery services (26%).

Consumers interested in natural & comfortable textiles
Thirty-three percent of respondents claimed to be browsing or purchasing textiles, such as apparel and bedding, during the crisis. Browsing interest was high for natural fibers (84.1%); clothing and textiles made for comfort (84.1%), clothing and textiles that are durable (81.1%), and easy-care clothing and textiles (79.9%).

From a category perspective, the browsing of activewear/athleticwear (78.7%) and sleepwear/loungewear (75%) had a high purchase ratio; with 39.6% of consumers saying they had made purchases from those categories. More than 84% of surveyed consumers claimed to look for apparel made for comfort, with nearly 46% claiming to have purchased such an item. Over 60% of consumers stated they are wearing more casual or active/athletic wear during the crisis.

Consumers choose cotton for comfort and safety
When asked to identify the source fibers and fabrics for comfortable apparel, cotton ranked highest among 69.6% of respondents. Spandex was viewed a distant second by 27.2% of respondents; followed by polyester (22.5%), wool (17.2%), and rayon/viscose (15.6%).

When asked to rate the safety of fibers from a hypoallergenic standpoint, the rankings were similar: cotton was perceived as very safe by 55.4% of respondents; spandex by 27.8%; polyester by 23.2%; wool by 20%; and rayon/viscose by 17.4%.

Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. growers of upland cotton and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, is the research and marketing company representing upland cotton. The program is designed and operated to improve the demand for and profitability of cotton.

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Dr. Baohong Zhang of East Carolina University was selected as recipient of the 2019 Cotton Biotechnology Award. The award announcement was made at the 2020 Plant & Animal Genome Conference in San Diego.

Dr. Zhang has made unique and significant contributions to cotton biotechnology using genome editing and small regulatory RNAs. He was the first United States based researcher to publish on research that knocked out an endogenous gene in cotton using CRISPR/Cas 9 technology. Dr. Zhang used two molecular biology tools, CRISPR and VIGS, to develop a rapid method for studying gene function in cotton. His research will open a new paradigm for cotton improvement. Because of these contributions, he received the East Carolina University Lifetime Achievement for Research & Creative Activity Award in 2019 and the ICAC Cotton Researcher of the Year Award in 2018. He was also elected Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement the same year.

The Cotton Biotechnology Award, endowed by a gift from Dr. Norma Trolinder in 2000, has been presented on seven previous occasions. The recipient receives a monetary award and a plaque. It is presented to a scientist or group of scientists for outstanding biotechnology research in cotton and is administered by the Agricultural and Environmental Research Department at Cotton Incorporated.

Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. growers of upland cotton and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, is the research and marketing company representing upland cotton. The program is designed and operated to improve the demand for and profitability of cotton.

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Paying homage to the iconic Rosie the Riveter, Cotton Incorporated and THE GREAT. unite to create a jumpsuit for the modern-day Rosie

Wednesday, February 19, 2020
New York

In celebration of National Women’s History Month, Cotton Incorporated unveils “Rosie Reborn,” a new campaign inspired by the iconic Rosie the Riveter to honor the strides women have made in the workforce over the past 75 years. Using denim from the original 40’s era “Rosie” jumpsuits, Cotton Incorporated joined forces with designers Emily Current and Meritt Elliott of the womenswear brand, THE GREAT., to reimagine and re-build a new line of modern-day jumpsuits for the barrier breaking Rosie’s of today.

“Cotton is the can-do fiber and embodies the versatility of women in today’s workforce,” says Kim Kitchings, senior vice president of Consumer Marketing at Cotton Incorporated. “Authentic cotton denim has been a uniform of sorts throughout history: the original Rosies during World War II, the rock-and-roll rebellion of the 1960s and casual Friday takeover in the ‘90s. Denim has empowered women in the workforce for decades and with the modern interpretation of the Rosie jumpsuit, we want women to channel that fearless determination.”

The epitome of that connection to the past, present and future comes through THE GREAT.’s redesign of one of the most iconic workwear garments in American history, featuring one of the most durable fabrics, the original Rosie the Riveter cotton denim jumpsuit.

“We have looked to both history and vintage as inspiration since the beginning of our journey in fashion and our designs are thoughtful reinterpretations of classic American silhouettes in soft, washable cottons. For this project, we deconstructed an original ‘Rosie’ vintage denim jumpsuit and reimagined it to reflect a Rosie of today – creating a one-of-a-kind prototype for The Rosie jumpsuit,” share Emily Current and Meritt Elliott, co-founders of THE GREAT. “Each jumpsuit in the line includes denim from a vintage Rosie jumpsuit, connecting Rosies past with Rosies present, and beyond. We wanted to create a legacy with this design.”

Championing the indomitable spirit of these women, the Rosie Reborn campaign spotlights six “modern day Rosies” who break boundaries in their often male-dominated fields including: THE GREAT. founders, Emily Current and Meritt Elliott; professional soccer athlete and World Cup Champion, Carli Lloyd; famed metal artist/welder, Barbie the Welder; Black Girls Code founder, Kimberly Bryant; and architecture thought-leader, Julia Gamolina.

The campaign tagline: “Cotton Makes Denim Strong. You Make It Powerful” encapsulates both the power of women and the strength of denim. A film directed by Kat Keene chronicles how Emily Current, Meritt Elliott and Cotton Incorporated redefined an iconic garment, in celebration of women who are redefining the workplace. Taking graphic inspiration from World War II-era recruitment posters paired with the reinvented jumpsuit Cotton Incorporated’s Rosie Reborn campaign features all six Modern Day Rosies and their respective accomplishments.

Anyone can become a part of the “Rosie” legacy as the limited-edition jumpsuit will be commercially available at THE GREAT. in Los Angeles or online at rosiereborn.com retailing for $350, available in sizes 0-5, (0=XS, 1=S, 2=M, 3=L, 4=XL, 5=XXL). The jumpsuit will be available for purchase nationwide this February.

For campaign imagery and jumpsuit product shots click here. Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram with #RosieReborn.

About our Rosies:

Emily Current and Meritt Elliott – Emily Current and Meritt Elliott are designers, entrepreneurs, longtime collaborators and brand builders who in 2015 set out to build the clothing brand THE GREAT., that served multifaceted, dynamic women just like themselves. With their unique worldview and their love of denim and soft cottons, they nodded to classic Americana and created clothing that embraced the softness and durability of both cotton denim and the women who wear it. By personifying and championing what it looks like for women to work together, they are redefining what it means to be a founder and entrepreneur for women everywhere.

Carli Lloyd – Carli Lloyd is a professional American soccer player, two-time Olympic gold medalist, two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, two-time FIFA Player of the Year, and a three-time Olympian. Both on and off the field, Carli uses her experience and her influence to provide an image of female strength and determination for young girls to aspire to. She has proven with every game that women can play just as hard as the boys and should be offered the same opportunity to do so.

Barbie the Welder – With her unparalleled sculpture design and artistry, Barbie the Welder, has quickly become a world-renowned metal sculptor, published author and YouTube personality. The modern-day Rosie the Riveter uses her self-taught skills and platform to educate aspiring welders on the basics, proving that it’s not just a man’s hobby and empowering women to pick up the torch.

Kimberly Bryant – Kimberly Bryant is a nationally recognized electrical engineer and founder and CEO of Black Girls Code. Her organization is a non-profit dedicated to increasing the number of women of color in the digital space, by starting girls ages 7 to 17 in STEM fields. Kimberly has been praised as a thought leader for her work to introduce programming and technology to a new generation of coders.

Julia Gamolina – Julia Gamolina is an acclaimed leader in the architecture world receiving several accolades for her work and advocacy for women in the field. She currently serves as the Director of Strategy at global firm, Trahan Architects and is also the founder and Editorial Director of MadameArchitect.org, an online publication that aims to provide visibility and encourage advancement of leading female architects.

Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. growers and importers of cotton and cotton products, is the research and marketing company for the natural fiber. A not-for-profit, we do not manufacturer or sell any products. We conduct science-based research and promote amazing facts, helping explain why cotton is The Fabric of Our Lives. For more information visit Cottoninc.com and TheFabricOfOurLives.com.

THE GREAT.
Founded in 2015 by designers Emily Current & Meritt Elliott, industry favorite womenswear line THE GREAT. is celebrated for its soulful approach to softness and comfort with a tightly edited take on classic Americana. Sold at over 200 of the world’s best stores and online destinations, the multi-category clothing brand includes a children’s offering, a robust knits range, a full vintage-inspired footwear collection, sleepwear, and a newly launched men’s line. Thisisthegreat.com

The post Empowering Strength And Enduring Style: “Rosie Reborn” Campaign Celebrates Female Trailblazers appeared first on Cotton Incorporated.

Cotton Incorporated’s Blue Jeans Go Green^™ denim recycling program announces the Denim Stack Challenge

Thursday, October 31, 2019
New York, New York

Cotton Incorporated’s Blue Jeans Go Green^™ denim recycling program announced today its first ever Denim Stack Challenge, a national awareness initiative in honor of America Recycles Day. The #DenimStackChallenge invites consumers across the country to inventory their own closets, snap and share a picture of their denim, and give those items they no longer wear new life by recycling them.

According to Cotton Incorporated’s 2019 Lifestyle Monitor^™ Survey, the average American owns 6 pairs of jeans and 10 pieces of denim. Every year, millions of tons of textile waste are discarded in landfills, but it doesn’t have to be that way for all unwanted garments. Because authentic denim is made mostly from cotton, a sustainable fiber, it can be broken down to its natural state and transformed into something new. Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go Green^™ denim recycling program collects denim that might otherwise be thrown away and upcycles it into natural cotton fiber insulation, in turn a portion is distributed to organizations to help building efforts across the country. By diverting denim waste from landfills and assisting in building efforts, the program helps to close the loop on cotton sustainability.

“The Denim Stack Challenge is an interactive way to raise awareness of our program’s mission and inspire consumers across the country to support sustainable living through a simple, meaningful act,” explains Andrea Samber, director, consumer marketing at Cotton Incorporated. “America Recycles Day is an ideal time to encourage people everywhere to participate in a movement for a greener world, also shining a light on natural textile recyclability. It’s important for everyone to know that the denim they buy is sustainable and can be recycled because it is made from cotton.”

By participating in the #DenimStackChallenge, consumers can contribute to the efforts that Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go Green^™ denim recycling program continues to champion by diverting thousands of tons of textile waste from landfills each year and transforming unused denim garments into something that gives back to our people and our planet. Between Nov. 11 – 18, consumers can participate in the program by taking stock of their denim stack, sharing it on social, and sending off what they no longer wear to be recycled.

#DENIMSTACKCHALLENGE ACROSS THE U.S.

1. Take Stock of Your Stack: look through your closet and STACK up your denim apparel (jackets, shirts, skirts, shorts and, of course, jeans). Any type of denim apparel can be collected for recycling so long as it’s at least 90% cotton. Check your labels!
2. SNAP & SHARE: take a picture of your denim and share your stack on Instagram between Nov. 11 – 18. Tag @DiscoverCotton and hashtag #DenimStackChallenge
3. Spread the Word: Tag three friends who you think have a lot of denim in their closet and encourage them to get in on the action
4. Recycle Your Old Denim: Drop your unwanted denim apparel off for recycling at one of the many participating Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go Green^™ program brands or retailers. Or, mail it in for free by downloading a prepaid shipping label from Zappos for Good.

#DENIMSTACKCHALLENGE AT CARAVAN STYLIST STUDIO

To celebrate America Recycles Day and its first Denim Stack Challenge, Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go Green^™ denim recycling program is proud to be collaborating with Caravan Stylist Studio, located at The Gregory Hotel in New York City. Between Nov. 11 – 18, a denim stack challenge installation will be featured in the hotel’s lobby, where hotel guests and New Yorkers alike can stop by to drop off their unwanted denim and add it to the honorary stack that Cotton’s program will collect for recycling.

On November 17, Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go Green^™ denim recycling program is excited to work with Claudine DeSola, founder of Caravan Stylist Studio, and influencers Libby Vilner (@lifewithlibby) and Lara Eurdolian (@prettyconnected) on a sustainable fashion and beauty pop-up event. Taking place in the lobby of The Gregory Hotel from 1 – 6 p.m., the event invites attendees to sustainably sell and repurpose their unwanted new and gently used clothing and accessory items. All attendees who bring a denim garment to drop off for recycling through Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go Green^™ denim recycling program will receive a $5 credit to shop the sale.

To learn more about the Denim Stack Challenge and find out how to get involved this year, as well as find more information about Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go Green^™ denim recycling program, visit bluejeansgogreen.org. To learn more about America Recycles Day, a Keep America Beautiful national initiative, visit americarecyclesday.org.

About Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. cotton producers and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, conducts worldwide research and promotion activities to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton.

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Monday, September 9, 2019
New York, New York

Cotton Incorporated announced today the 2019 class of the Cotton Research and Promotion Hall of Fame. The program, now in its sixth year, recognizes individuals that have made significant contributions to the Program or to the cotton industry in general. The honorees will be formally inducted into the Cotton Research and Promotion Program Hall of Fame at the joint Cotton Incorporated/Cotton Board Annual Meeting this December in New Orleans, LA.

The two honorees for the 2019 Cotton Research and Promotion Hall of Fame include the late Ruth Benerito (Louisiana) and Dr. Johnie Jenkins (Mississippi).

The Cotton Research and Promotion Program was established in 1966 to expand the demand for upland cotton and to increase profitability for both cotton growers and importers of cotton products.

“As the Research and Promotion Program approaches its 50^th year, we would like to honor those who have played a crucial role in the evolution and advancement of the cotton industry,” says Berrye Worsham, President and CEO of Cotton Incorporated. “The tireless dedication and commitment of the 2019 Hall of Fame inductees have helped to shape the modern cotton industry and have a lasting impact, furthering its growth and innovation.”

The 2019 honorees of the Cotton Research and Promotion Program Hall of Fame were chosen from nominations made by Certified Producer and Importer Organizations and voted upon by the Chairman’s Committee of the Cotton Incorporated Board of Directors.

• Ruth Benerito (deceased) was crucial in leading the development of wrinkle-free cotton during her time as a U.S. Department of Agriculture chemist in the 1960s. Born in New Orleans, Ms. Benerito received degrees from Tulane University and the University of Chicago before beginning her work for USDA in 1953. Before retiring in 1986, she received 55 patents and led a team at the Department’s Southern Regional Research Center. After being named one of the most important women in the U.S. by Ladies’ Home Journal in 1971, Ms. Benerito also received USDA’s Distinguished Service Award, and in 2002, she received the prestigious Lemelson-Massachusetts Institute of Technology lifetime achievement award.
• Johnie Jenkins is an internationally acclaimed research plant geneticist, who through his 55 years of dedication to the research of cotton breeding, helped make Bt cotton a reality. In 2007, Dr. Jenkins was inducted into the USDA Agricultural Research Service’s Science Hall of Fame. The following year, the Arkansas native was honored with the Presidential Rank Award of Meritorious Senior Professional by President George W. Bush.

About Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. cotton producers and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, conducts worldwide research and promotion activities to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton.

The post Cotton Research and Promotion Program Hall of Fame 2019 Inductees Announced appeared first on Cotton Incorporated.

Cotton Incorporated, the research and promotion company for cotton, today announced that Dr. Gaylon Morgan will be joining its staff as Research Director, Agricultural & Environmental Research. In this role, Dr. Morgan will focus on weed and weed management research. A recognized expert in this area, Dr. Morgan joins the company at time when such expertise is most needed. Weed control and emerging diseases are the top two threats that face the U.S. cotton industry, and the research needed to address these threats continues to demand increased attention. Dr. Morgan will officially commence his tenure at Cotton Incorporated in June.

Dr. Morgan’s research on cotton agronomy, weeds, and diseases has been published and referred to extensively in numerous scholarly reports and industry publications. He has also participated in various conferences, webinars, and lectures during his professional career. Dr. Morgan was honored as the Beltwide Cotton Specialist of the Year in 2016 by Bayer Crop Sciences, and is also a three-time recipient of the Superior Service Award by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.

“Gaylon is among the most knowledgeable and dedicated researchers on cotton agronomy, diseases and weed threats to the commodity,” says Dr. Kater Hake, Vice President of the Cotton Incorporated Agricultural & Environmental Research Division. “We welcome him as both a colleague and as a strategist to combat a number of current weed, disease and production cost threats to cotton.”

Before joining Cotton Incorporated, Dr. Morgan worked as a Professor and State Extension Cotton Specialist in the Department of Soil & Crop Sciences at the Texas AgriLife Extension Service, Texas A&M University. He holds a Master of Science in Agronomy from Texas A&M University and a Doctorate of Philosophy in Horticulture/Plant Pathology from University of Wisconsin.

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Yazoo City Cotton Grower to Oversee Cotton Research and Promotion Program

Thursday, January 25, 2019
Cary, North Carolina

Bernie Jordan, a cotton grower from Yazoo City, Mississippi, will serve as the Cotton Incorporated Board Chairman. Jordan was elected to the two-year Chairman’s term at the joint Cotton Incorporated and Cotton Board meeting in Charlotte, NC this past December.

“Bernie has a wealth of knowledge on the key issues and concerns facing the modern cotton industry,” says Cotton Incorporated President and CEO J. Berrye Worsham. “His knowledge combined with demonstrated leadership within national and regional cotton organizations make him well-suited for his role as Chairman.”

Jordan, a native of Yazoo City, has been a Director on the Cotton Incorporated Board for more than 21 years. In addition to his role on the Cotton Incorporated Board, Bernie Jordan brings a range of industry experience and leadership expertise to his new role.

Since 1983 he has been co-owner and partner of Jordan Farms, a diversified row crop farm with interests in Yazoo and Humphreys Counties, as well as Jordan Land & Timber. He is co-owner and President of Yazoo Planters Gin Co. Jordan is also a Director and Treasurer of the Mississippi Boll Weevil Management Corporation, and serves on the boards of a range of regional cotton organizations including: the Delta Council; the Yazoo County Farm Bureau; Delta Wildlife; and on the Yazoo City advisory committee for Staplcotn.

After graduating from Mississippi State University, where he majored in Agricultural Economics, Bernie Jordan returned to his family farm in 1979. Today, Jordan and his wife, Susan, reside in Northwest Yazoo County.

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Dr. David M. Stelly of Texas A&M University was selected as the recipient of the 2018 Cotton Biotechnology Award for his contributions known all over the world covering cytogenetics, chromosome substitution lines, and the widely used 63K SNP Chip genotyping tool. The award announcement was made by Dr. Don Jones of Cotton Incorporated at the Plant & Animal Genome Conference in San Diego.

Commenting on the research efforts of Dr. Stelly, Dr. Jonathan Wendel of Iowa State University lauded his history of accomplishments: “His training was in classical plant cytogenetics, but over the years he has expanded into many different aspects of plant genomics, including comparative mapping, the development of new tools for germplasm characterization, the creation and genomic evaluation of chromosome substitution lines, and genome sequencing. Dr. Stelly has maintained a record of significant publication throughout his career, with more than 150 contributions to the scientific literature including many in high impact journals.”

Similar accolades came from Dr. Josh Udall, soon to be Research Leader at USDA-ARS in College Station, Texas and recipient of the award in 2014. “A consistent professional attribute that obvious to the cotton research community has been Dr. Stelly’s ability to work with others and establish collaborative research. These community building efforts include research projects in chromosome substitution lines, SNP markers, and genome sequencing to name a few. In each case, Dr. Stelly provided leadership and a collaborative vision that was always larger than his own professional aspirations”.

The Cotton Biotechnology Award, endowed by a gift from Dr. Norma Trolinder in 2000, has been presented on six previous occasions. The recipient receives a monetary award and a plaque. It is presented to a scientist or group of scientists for outstanding biotechnology research in cotton and is administered by the Agricultural and Environmental Research Department at Cotton Incorporated.

Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. growers of upland cotton and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, is the research and marketing company representing upland cotton. The program is designed and operated to improve the demand for and profitability of cotton.

The post 2018 Cotton Biotechnology Award Recipient – Dr. David M. Stelly appeared first on Cotton Incorporated.

Wednesday, October 3, 2018
New York, New York

Cotton Incorporated announced today the 2018 class of the Cotton Research and Promotion Hall of Fame. The program, now in its fifth year, recognizes U.S. cotton industry leaders that have made significant contributions to the Program or to the cotton industry in general. The honorees will be formally inducted into the Cotton Research and Promotion Program Hall of Fame at the joint Cotton Incorporated/Cotton Board annual meeting this December in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The three honorees for the 2018 Cotton Research and Promotion Hall of Fame include: the late W.L. “Billy” Carter (North Carolina); Jesse Moore (Virginia); and Charles H. Chewning (North Carolina).

The Cotton Research and Promotion Program was established in 1966 to expand the demand for upland cotton and to increase profitability for both cotton growers and importers of cotton products.

“The cotton industry as we know it today was shaped by innovative thinking and strong leadership,” says Berrye Worsham, President and CEO of Cotton Incorporated. “The 2018 Hall of Fame inductees embody these attributes, and their contributions and tireless dedication have had a lasting impact on the industry.”

“The cotton industry as we know it today was shaped by innovative thinking and strong leadership,” says Berrye Worsham, President and CEO of Cotton Incorporated. “The 2018 Hall of Fame inductees embody these attributes, and their contributions and tireless dedication have had a lasting impact on the industry.”

• W.L. “Billy” Carter (deceased) served the cotton industry in many different roles and leadership positions, including the first full time Executive Vice President of the North Carolina Cotton Producers Association from 2002-2010. Over the years, Mr. Carter was not only a farmer, but also served on several Boards of Directors including the North Carolina Cotton Producers Association, the National Cotton Council (NCC), Cotton Incorporated, and the Cotton Board.
• Jesse Moore is responsible for helping change the landscape of the cotton industry by taking the lead in establishing the High Volume Instrument (HVI) classification system while he was the Director of the Cotton Division of the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service. Mr. Moore was part of the industry since birth, having grown up on a cotton, peanut, and tobacco farm in South Georgia. He graduated with a degree in agriculture in the University of Georgia and then served in the U.S. Air Force for four years. His tireless efforts in the industry set a standard for not only U.S. cotton grading, but for the rest of the world.
• Charles H. Chewning was instrumental in helping Cotton Incorporated create and deploy the Engineered Fiber Selection^® (EFS^®) System around the world. The system, which was a precursor to blockchain, is a complete bale management system designed to assist textile mills and cotton shippers; and it improves profits, efficiencies, and quality. After graduating from Wofford College, Mr. Chewning served in the U.S. Army for six years where he rose to the rank of Captain. He joined Cotton Incorporated in 1973 as a Fiber Processing Engineer and later became Vice President of the Fiber Management Research Division and the EFS^® Marketing Division. During his time at Cotton Incorporated, he also directed the establishment of a state-of-the-art Fiber Processing Center.

About Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. cotton producers and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, conducts worldwide research and promotion activities to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton.

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Lifestyle Monitor Survey Results

Wednesday, July 25, 2018
New York, New York

With summer in the rearview, the road ahead can signal anxiety for students and parents, alike. But both can breathe easier with cotton in the mix. According to responses to the Cotton Incorporated Lifestyle Monitor Survey, cotton is the fiber parents prefer for their children’s back-to-school apparel. Parents should also know that according to experts, both students and adults can get a better night’s sleep on cotton sheets and in cotton sleepwear.

The majority of parents (85%) prefer their children to be dressed in cotton, and a majority (53%) say that they usually or always check the garment label to be sure the garments are made of cotton.

“There are a lot of reasons why cotton is a comfortable choice for back-to-school wardrobes,” says Dr. Mikhail Varshavski. “Cotton fabrics have unique characteristics such as breathability and a more rapid release of bacteria in a laundry load, compared to synthetics. Some synthetics can actually encourage the growth of bacteria, which can create health issues and smell unpleasant.”

Dr. Varshavski points out that cotton can also contribute to a good night’s sleep. “Studies have demonstrated that the breathability of cotton sheets and sleepwear keep the body comfortable, which leads to uninterrupted sleep. A good night’s sleep can do a lot for mental focus and general good health.”

Dr. Varshavski, better known to his patients and social media followers as “Doctor Mike,” recently partnered with Cotton Incorporated to raise awareness about the benefits of cotton for sleep and personal health.

This year, back-to-school clothing shoppers plan to spend about $277 per person, according to the Monitor Survey. Performance is of key interest to parents, who want quality clothing that is durable. Nearly two-thirds of back-to-school clothing shoppers say they would be willing to pay more for their child/children’s clothing offering:

• shrink resistance (72%);
• stain resistance (70%);
• fade resistance (68%);
• odor resistance (64%); and
• durability enhancement (64%) performance technologies, compared to clothing without those features.

About Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. cotton producers and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, conducts worldwide research and promotion activities to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton.

The post Cotton is Parent-Preferred for Back-to-School Apparel appeared first on Cotton Incorporated.

Cotton Incorporated introduces PUREPRESS technology for cotton fabrics

Tuesday, July 24, 2018
Cary, North Carolina

Cotton Incorporated today introduces PUREPRESS, a durable press technology that keeps clothes wrinkle- and formaldehyde-free. The technology utilizes ready-available chemistries in a patent-pending combination that performs as well as, or better than conventional resins. Information on PUREPRESS, is available at Cotton Incorporated Booth #53095 at the Outdoor Retailer Show in Denver, CO or visit CottonWorks.com.

“Cotton Incorporated researchers are constantly looking for sustainable and innovative ways to increase the appeal of cotton to industry and consumers,” says Mary Ankeny, vice president, product development and implementation operations for Cotton Incorporated. “PUREPRESS is a response to those manufacturers and brands that want an effective durable press finish without formaldehyde.”

Cotton is a water-loving fiber and its natural absorbency can lead to wrinkles when the fabric is dried and the hydrogen bonds break and reform in different configurations. In the 1900’s, wrinkle-resistance chemistry was introduced and used formaldehyde containing resins to crosslink (or give memory to the fibers) and hold those bonds in place keeping fabric smooth. Formaldehyde is a naturally- occurring substance found even in apples. However, some global health organizations have identified significant exposure to formaldehyde as a probable carcinogen.

Cotton Incorporated PUREPRESS technology uses widely-available chemistries in a patent-pending combination that:

• Creates smoothness equal to that of conventional resins;
• Removes byproduct effects of formaldehyde;
• Improves tensile strength, tear strength, and abrasion resistance; and
• Does not promote yellowing, shade change, or cause odor.

Two responses to the Cotton Incorporated Lifestyle Monitor survey of consumers indicates that PUREPRESS is just what they are looking for:

• 77% of U.S. consumers agree that better quality garments are made from all natural fibers, such as cotton;
• 56% of U.S. consumers are very or somewhat likely to pay more for clothing with wrinkle-resistant properties.

Ankeny explains that there is an added bonus to the technology: “Traditional durable press resins incur strength losses which have not mixed well with lighter weight fabrics, but the PUREPRESS technology works incredibly well with these finer constructions.”

About Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. cotton producers and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, conducts worldwide research and promotion activities to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton.

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Cotton University adds four new courses to the College of Nonwovens

Wednesday December 20, 2017

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The three honorees for the 2017 Cotton Research and Promotion Hall of Fame include: the late Dr. Harold L. “Hal” Lewis (Arkansas); the late Lawson “Sykes” Martin (Alabama); and Dr. William M. “Bill” Lyle (Texas).

The Cotton Research and Promotion Program was established in 1966 to expand the demand for upland cotton and to increase profitability for both cotton growers and importers of cotton products.

“Over the past few decades, the cotton industry has continued to evolve and advance in many ways,” says Berrye Worsham, President and CEO of Cotton Incorporated. “The tireless dedication and many contributions of the 2017 Hall of Fame Inductees have shaped the industry as we know it today and will further impact future growth and advancement.”

The 2017 honorees of the Cotton Research and Promotion Program Hall of Fame were chosen from nominations made by Certified Producer and Importer Organizations and voted upon by the Chairman’s Committee of the Cotton Incorporated Board of Directors.

• Dr. Harold L. “Hal” Lewis (deceased) had a lifelong dedication to agriculture and research, notably in the cotton industry. As Director of Research for Cotton Incorporated (1970-1973), Dr. Lewis was instrumental in the development of the module builder and played a key role in the research program for boll weevil eradication. His experience and knowledge as a plant breeder led him to develop three commercial cotton varieties. Dr. Lewis served as a board member for both the National Cotton Council and the Cotton Board, and was inducted into the Arkansas Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2006. Before his death, he also served as president and general manager of his own business, Scientific Seed Co. and H.L. Lewis Farm and Enterprises.
• Lawson “Sykes” Martin (deceased) is recognized for his strong leadership in the cotton industry, having served in organizations on both local and national levels. Mr. Martin had a long career at the National Cotton Council, beginning as a delegate in 1977 and finishing as an Advisor to the Council in 1993. He also held board positions at Cotton Incorporated, Southern Cotton Growers, the American Cottonseed Association, and The Cotton Foundation. In 1987, he was named the National Cotton Farmer of the Year by Cotton Farming Magazine, and was also the recipient of the Alabama Farm of Distinction Award in 1993.
• Dr. William M. “Bill” Lyle has had a revolutionary impact on the cotton industry with the research and development of the Low Energy Precision Application (LEPA) system in the 1980s. His contributions as a cotton farmer, agricultural engineer, and scientist are recognized both nationally and internationally. Dr. Lyle has served as a consultant to the United States Congress, John Deere and Company, and the American Society of Agricultural Engineers Water Supply and Conveyance Committee. He has also been the recipient of the John Deere Gold Medal Award (1998), the High Plains Research Foundation’s Agricultural Research Scientist of the Year Award (1981), the Texas Association of Agricultural Consultant Public Servant of the Year Award (1992), and the Secretary of Agriculture Group Research and Extension Award (1994), among others.

About Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. cotton producers and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, conducts worldwide research and promotion activities to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. For more information about Cotton Incorporated visit CottonInc.com.

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“Dr. Daystar brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to this newly created role, which will oversee and coordinate our internal and external sustainability efforts,” says Berrye Worsham, President and CEO of Cotton Incorporated. “As our company’s sustainability programs continue to gain momentum, Dr. Daystar will be a valuable resource for the company and the cotton industry.”

Dr. Daystar is well-versed in the complexities of sustainability research, particularly as it relates to cellulosic fibers, including cotton. His research has appeared in scholarly journals and his consulting work has led to the development of sustainability and chemical engineering tools, and certifications for clients including the United States Department of Agriculture, Department of Energy, Eastman Chemical, and Piedmont biofuels.

Dr. Daystar’s experience includes sustainable chemical process development and efficiency management program development with the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement, Mead WestVaco, Pesco-Beam Environmental Solutions, and Kemira Chemical. Before joining Cotton Incorporated, he held the position of Assistant Director at the Duke Center for Sustainability and Commerce at Duke University, where he also taught. He earned a doctorate in forest biomaterials from North Carolina State University.

About Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. cotton producers and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, conducts worldwide research and promotion activities to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. For more information about Cotton Incorporated visit CottonInc.com.

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“Millennials and Generation Z – who we’re calling ’Generation App’ – are seeking style and comfort in their clothing and convenience in their shopping experience – a combination that’s not always easy to find,” said Kim Kitchings, senior vice president of consumer marketing at Cotton Incorporated. “In collaboration with iconic retailer, Bloomingdale’s, we’re making quality fabric and fashion accessible in seconds, and you don’t have to attend Fashion Week to get the look.”

Cotton’s 60 Second Fashion Show merges a runway experience directly to a shopping opportunity where Generation App spends a great deal of time: mobile devices. Seven in 10 Generation Z consumers and eight in 10 Millennial consumers say they browse for clothing on their smartphones, significantly higher than that of consumers overall (58%), according to Cotton Incorporated Lifestyle Monitor.

The collection is also in line with Generation Z and Millennial apparel preferences. Pieces embody the on-trend streetwear aesthetic of the season with an emphasis on transitional items including denim, outerwear and athleisure – all with the common thread of cotton. Beginning Sept. 7, shoppers can select from more than 80 cotton pieces for both men and women, including items from contemporary brands, such as J. Brand, Adidas, Rag & Bone, Theory, Michael Kors, Burberry, Paige and more. Items are available online and at participating Bloomingdale’s department stores across the country.

“Together with Cotton Incorporated, we’re giving consumers the on-trend looks they want, made with their favorite fabric and available in an instant,” said Susan Marasco, fashion director at Bloomingdale’s. “Shoppers can expect to see stylish ready-to-wear pieces including sweatshirts and shirting with ruffles, off the shoulder details, and mixed fabrics for women – all with the ease of cotton. The men’s collection mixes shirt jackets, outerwear and other transitional items that will be both comfortable and fresh for fall and beyond. Denim is always a huge part of fall fashion and this year is no exception. Distressing, embellishment and hem detail are big denim trends you’ll see at Bloomingdale’s, of course all created with denim’s crucial component, cotton.”

Watch the video to shop the looks and then show Cotton Incorporated and Bloomingdale’s your favorite pieces from Cotton’s 60 Second Fashion Show video by using the hashtag #ShopCotton and tagging @Bloomingdales and @DiscoverCotton.

About Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. cotton producers and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, conducts worldwide research and promotion activities to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton. For more information about Cotton Incorporated visit CottonInc.com.

About Bloomingdale’s
Bloomingdale’s is America’s only nationwide, full-line, upscale department store and a division of Macy’s, Inc. It was founded in 1872 and currently operates 38 Bloomingdale’s stores and 17 Bloomingdale’s, The Outlet Stores, in California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Virginia. In addition, Bloomingdale’s has an international presence with a location in Dubai. Be sure to follow @bloomingdales on social media, become a Loyallist, and for more information, or to shop any time, visit www.bloomingdales.com.

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Cotton Incorporated’s ‘The United of America’ campaign celebrates unity

Flip through the posts on your social media feed and images of newborns swaddled in pink and blue striped cotton receiving blankets is a common image from new parents. In fact, it’s so familiar, it inspired ‘The United of America’ campaign from Cotton Incorporated, the research and promotion company for U.S. cotton producers and importers, which reflects consumers’ emotional connection to cotton.

“Our country’s greatest strength is the diversity of its people. Although we may disagree with each other from time to time, we are bound together by common threads, starting with the cotton blanket used to wrap newborns in U.S. hospitals,” says Jill Orsini, advertising director for Cotton Incorporated.

The call for unity message continues and gives consumers the chance to show their agreement in two ways: by using The United of America Facebook filter, available from the Cotton Facebook page; and by sharing pictures with #TheUnitedofAmerica of loved ones wrapped in the iconic blanket — whether six months, six years or twenty-six years ago to show their support that we are more alike than different.

The cotton receiving blanket featured in the video and inspiring the Facebook filter, is from Medline, an Illinois-based manufacturer of and distributor of medical supplies. The blanket with the signature stripes wraps one in four newborns in the United States.

The video is a visual metaphor conveying that Americans, regardless of gender or color, are born equal, including the cotton blanket that comforts our first moments in the world.

‘The United of America’ campaign launched on Tuesday, July 4, 2017, with a video distributed across Cotton Incorporated social media channels and lives on TheUnitedOFAmerica.com. Since its launch, the video received more than 300,000 views. The campaign runs through the month of July.

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“Leave Comfort to Clothes” Makes Comfort a Catalyst

The Cotton Incorporated Consumer Marketing Division has released the first of three new consumer-facing television commercials, part of an integrated campaign that advises consumers to Leave Comfort to Clothes.

“The ‘Leave Comfort to Clothes’ campaign explores the connection between physical comfort and going out of your own mental or emotional comfort zone,” explains Jill Orsini, Cotton Incorporated Director of Advertising. “The three stories show how summoning the inner strength to take a chance or try something new is easier when you feel comfortable in what you’re wearing,” adds Orsini.

Created by DDB-NY, the first of the three fifteen-second spots began airing on select cable networks on April 17, followed by release on ABC, CW and Fox television networks one week later.  The two additional spots will be introduced over the course of the year. The campaign will be supported by digital banner advertising, social media activations, and custom content.

The campaign aims to reach women and men 18-49 and the digital components will be utilized to build awareness of the campaign, educate the consumer on cotton’s benefits, and encourage them to check the label and shop cotton.The message of finding courage through comfort is timely, as is the fifteen-second duration of the three spots.  “This is a departure for us,” says Orsini, who notes the company’s history of sixty- and thirty-second spots, “but our research indicates that consumers want short, engaging storytelling.  We think we are meeting that with a clear message: leave comfort to clothes; where the softness, durability, ease of care, and versatility of cotton go with them no matter where they go or what they do.”

About Cotton Incorporated
Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. cotton producers and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, conducts worldwide research and promotion activities to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton.

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