European organic chemists began producing rayon, the first man-made fiber, during the mid-19th century. It is made from chemically-processed cellulose, the primary material of plants. American chemical company DuPont began developing synthetic fibers made entirely from petroleum and chemicals in 1926. European and American companies dominated the research and development of synthetic fibers during the 1930s.
Synthetics expanded the affordability and durability of fashionable clothing. During the 1950s, fashion from mass-market to haute couture embraced synthetics. These textiles were ubiquitous throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Essentially plastics, they offered increased performance, new aesthetics, and lowered costs. However, being non-biodegradable, they have significantly damaged the environment, contributing to pollution and climate change.