The types of fabric chosen for costume elements are important, whether the elements are store-bought or made specifically for the production.
Inappropriate fabrics can make actors unhappy or make the costume look bad.
For a majority of costumes, lightweight cotton or cotton blends are ideal fabrics. They are sturdy, easy to sew, they breathe well, and they are easy to wash. This means that the costumes can last a long time, and actors won't roast on stage. Especially heavy fabrics should usually be avoided because they tend to be expensive and hot for an actor to wear. Conversely, extremely lightweight fabrics should usually be avoided because they tend not to be sturdy enough.