NAIA™ Material Guide

What is Naia™ Clothing?

Naia™ was innovated by Eastman, a global specialist with over 100 years' experience in responsibly manufacturing fabrics. They created Naia™ acetate fabric to address the fashion's growing need for sustainable alternatives that don't sacrifice quality or performance.

This pioneering textile delivers sensorial pleasure while honoring our planet's natural resources. At Rise & Fall, we believe in clothing that lasts - both in style and substance and our Naia™ collection embodies our commitment to accessible luxury that doesn't compromise on integrity.

How is Naia™ Made?

Created from sustainably managed pine and eucalyptus forests, Naia™ is developed through a process that transforms wood pulp into a refined cellulosic fibre.

The Production Process

The journey from forest to fabric follows a carefully orchestrated process:

1. Responsibly harvested wood pulp is sourced from certified sustainable forests.
2. The raw materials undergo acetylation—a chemical process that transforms cellulose into cellulose acetate.
3. This material is dissolved in a solvent and filtered to remove impurities.
4. The solution is extruded through spinnerets to form continuous filaments.
5. These filaments are then spun into yarn, which is woven or knitted into the final fabric.

This closed-loop production system recycles solvents and minimises waste, reflecting the thoughtful approach to manufacturing that aligns with our values.

The Sustainability of Naia™

1. Environmental Impact

Naia™'s sustainability story extends beyond its renewable raw materials:

• The production process minimises chemical waste.
• Manufacturing requires significantly less water than conventional fibres like cotton.
• Low energy production processes reduces our carbon footprint.
• Biodegradability ensures the material returns to nature at the end of its lifecycle, though at a slower rate than pure natural fibres.

2. Certifications and Standards

Naia™ materials carry impressive credentials and third-party verifications that validate its environmental claims:

• OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certification confirms it's free from harmful substances.
• FSC® and PEFC™ certifications ensure responsible forestry practices.
• Ranked on the Higgs Materials Sustainability Index & ISO14044 compliant, proving it’s low environmental impact manufacturing process.
• Biodegradability certification according to ASTM D6868.

The Benefits of Naia™ Clothing

1. Long-Lasting Quality Assurance

Acetate fabrics have long been valued in luxury markets for their silk-like qualities. Naia™ fabric elevates traditional acetate by incorporating advanced processing techniques and fabric sourcing. The result is a premium material that maintains its integrity from day to night, and all the events in between. 

2. Pure Comfort and Performance

Our Naia™ clothing for women aims to be thoughtful and reward wearers with lush breathability and natural moisture-wicking capabilities, making it perfect for travel days and summer rays. This is a no-pill zone, so you can expect your piece to look timeless year after year. 

Take this fabric from summer to winter, seamlessly layering with our staple cashmere jumpers and other luxury knitwear. 

3. Naia™ vs. Traditional Fabrics

When compared to conventional materials, Naia™ offers distinct advantages:

• Unlike polyester, Naia™ breathes naturally and doesn't trap heat or odors. This makes it far more comfortable in different conditions.
• Compared to silk, Naia™ requires less specialised care while offering a similar drape and feel
• It's crease-free.
• Unlike conventional viscose, Naia™ production uses a closed-loop system that minimises environmental impact
• Cotton requires substantially more water to produce than Naia™, making the latter a more responsible choice in water-stressed times. 

While cotton and Naia™ are known for their natural breathability and softeness, Naia™ is more resistant to wrinkling making it an ideal choice for warm climates and layering.

4. Superior Structure

The real magic is in the molecular structure:

• Breathability (natural air circulation).
• Moisture -wicking properties (keeping you comfortable all day).
• A cooling touch that feels gentle on the skin. It's never clingy or synthetic-feeling.
• A natural lustre that provides an elegant drape and graceful movement.
• It's softness is reminiscent of silk but with its own distinctive character.
• Highly durable and easy to care for making it ideal for everyday wear.

Downsides To Wearing Naia™?

There are 2 key considerations to bear in mind but we work with the natural characteristics to get the most out of the fabric:

1. Investment Value

Naia™ garments represent a higher initial investment than mass-produced alternatives. This reflects the true cost of responsible production, sourcing and superior performance. However, rather than viewing this as a limitation we see it as an invitation to see your wardrobe as an investment. Pieces selected thoughtfully, worn frequently and treasured for years.

The value of Naia™ becomes evident over time as our garments maintain their beauty and performance far longer than cheaper, fast-fashion alternatives, ultimately offering better value through its extended lifespan.

2. Physical Properties

Naia™ has less inherent stretch than elastane-based fabrics but we address this through thoughtful design that allows natural movement without requiring extreme elasticity. The result is clothing that moves with you while maintaining its intended silhouette.

The fabric also requires mindful care around high heat, which can affect its structure. This simply means treating your Naia™ pieces with the same consideration you would any quality garment, by washing at cool temperatures and avoiding high-heat drying. Read our Naia™ care guide for more information.

Naia™ vs. Other Fabrics

Here's a table looking at the different characteristics of Naia in comparison to natural and man-made fabrics.

Naia™ Clothing From Rise & Fall

Our expertise lies in our ability to create effortlessly chic everyday wear that never goes out of style. Discover our tailored track trousers that are perfect for dressing up or dressing down. Or perhaps our iconic shirt dress is your ideal choice, offering a classic professional look for both summer and winter.

Naia™ Summary

Here's why we think you should buy Naia™:

• Luxurious Feel, Everyday Comfort: Naia™ offers the softness and elegance of silk with enhanced breathability and moisture-wicking, making it ideal for all-day wear in any season.
• Sustainable & Eco-Conscious: By choosing Naia™, you support innovation in responsible fashion without compromising on elegance, quality, or performance.
• Made From: Responsibly sourced wood pulp, it is produced through a closed-loop process that uses less water and energy, minimizes waste, and is biodegradable.
• Long-Lasting Quality: Resistant to pilling and wrinkling, Naia™ garments maintain their look and performance over time—an investment in timeless, wearable luxury.
• Low Maintenance Luxury: Unlike silk, Naia™ requires minimal special care and retains its graceful drape and softness even with regular wear and washing.
• Hypoallergenic & Skin-Friendly: Naturally gentle and free from harsh chemicals, Naia™ is safe for sensitive skin and OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified.
• Versatile Styling: Whether layered with cashmere in winter or worn solo in summer, Naia™ adapts effortlessly to your wardrobe and lifestyle.