Material Symbols: Your Quick Guide to Understanding Fabric Icons
Ever stare at a clothing label and wonder what those tiny pictures mean? Those are material symbols – simple icons that tell you what a garment is made of. Knowing them can save you from itchy sweaters, soggy shoes, or clothes that pill too fast. In this guide we’ll break down the most common symbols, show you how to spot the good stuff, and give you a few tricks to use next time you shop.
What the Most Used Symbols Really Say
Most brands use a set of standard icons that represent cotton, silk, leather, synthetic fibers and more. A little cotton plant silhouette means 100% cotton – breathable and easy to wash. A silk worm indicates silk, which feels smooth but needs gentle care. Look for a cow head for genuine leather, and a triangle with a line inside for wool. When you see a circle with a line, that’s usually polyester or another synthetic. These symbols are usually printed right under the care instructions, so you don’t have to hunt for them.
How to Use Symbols When Buying
First, match the symbol to your lifestyle. If you run a lot, you’ll want moisture‑wicking synthetics – look for the triangle with a zig‑zag line. If you need a formal shirt, cotton or silk gives a crisp feel. For shoes, a cow head means real leather that will develop a patina over time; a faux‑leather icon usually looks like a leaf.
Second, check the blend. Many labels list multiple symbols, like a cotton plant plus a polyester triangle. That tells you the garment is a blend, which often balances comfort and durability. Keep an eye on the percentage; 70% cotton/30% polyester feels different from 50/50.
Third, consider care. Some symbols hint at special treatment – a hand in a tub means hand‑wash only, while a square with a puddle means machine wash. Ignoring these can ruin the material, even if you love the look.
Finally, trust the brand’s reputation. A high‑quality leather icon from a known maker is more reliable than a cheap imitation. If you’re unsure, a quick online search of the brand plus "material symbols" often brings up user reviews that confirm whether the icons match reality.
Arman Fashion Line follows these standards across all its collections, so you’ll find clear symbols on every shirt, jacket, and pair of shoes. Knowing what each picture means lets you pick pieces that stay comfortable, look great, and last longer. Next time you shop, give those tiny icons a second glance – they’re the shortcut to smarter fashion choices.
