Polyester is a synthetic fabric made from petroleum-based products. It is durable, wrinkle-resistant, and quick-drying, making it popular in clothing and textiles. However, it can have downsides. Polyester is not as breathable as natural fibers, which can lead to discomfort in hot weather. Additionally, the production process involves chemicals that can be harmful to the environment, and the fabric is not biodegradable. While it is safe to wear, prolonged exposure to certain chemicals in its production can be harmful.

In the movie "Polyester," people avoid polyester primarily due to its association with low-quality, uncomfortable clothing. The film, directed by John Waters, satirizes the culture of the 1980s, highlighting how polyester was seen as a cheap, synthetic fabric that lacked breathability and comfort compared to natural fibers. Additionally, the film uses the fabric as a metaphor for kitsch and excess in American suburban life, reflecting on societal norms and consumerism. The disdain for polyester also plays into the film's campy aesthetic and critique of mainstream values.

Polyester is generally less breathable than cotton. Cotton is a natural fiber known for its breathability and moisture-wicking properties, making it comfortable in warm conditions. Polyester, a synthetic fiber, does not allow air to circulate as freely and can trap heat and moisture against the skin. However, advancements in textile technology have led to the development of breathable polyester blends that can mimic some of cotton's properties. Overall, for breathability, cotton is typically the superior choice.

Polyester is a synthetic fabric made from polymers, primarily derived from petroleum. It is not 100% plastic but is made from plastic fibers. The most common type of polyester is polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is a form of plastic. While polyester fabrics can have a plastic-like feel and characteristics, they often contain other materials or blends, such as cotton or wool, in various textile products. So, while polyester is primarily plastic-based, it is not exclusively so.