What are fibers that are not created by people, such as cotton and wool, known as?

Natural fibers are those that are derived from plants, animals, or minerals and are not manufactured or chemically altered by humans. Examples include cotton, which comes from the cotton plant, and wool, which is obtained from sheep. These fibers possess unique properties such as breathability, softness, and biodegradability, making them highly valued in the apparel and textiles market.

In contrast, synthetic fibers are man-made and created through chemical processes, often using petroleum-based substances. Engineered fibers, like rayon or nylon, are also produced through human intervention and vary in properties from natural fibers. Blended fibers involve combinations of different fiber types to harness the strengths of each. Therefore, the term "natural fibers" specifically identifies those fibers that originate from nature, distinguishing them clearly from those created or modified by human processes.

This distinction is crucial in understanding the properties and applications of various types of fibers used in fashion and textiles.