Polyester has earned a bad rap in the fashion industry. Sure, natural fibres are generally more breathable and pleasant to the touch, but not all synthetic fabrics should be considered one and the same. Take ponte, for instance. Its blend of rayon, polyester and spandex doesn't sound too appealing. But the tightly woven knit is both stretchy (comfortable) and structured (flattering), meaning it's the perfect fabric for a number of style staples. Personally, I had always avoided polyester—that is until I discovered ponte five years ago. While online shopping, I came across The Gap's 1969 ponte legging pants. At the time, I didn't wear actual pants—only dresses, skirts, jeggings and leggings. But I gave these "legging pants" a try, and they've become a mainstay in my wardrobe ever since. (The $70 pants make their way back onto gapcanada.ca every once in a while, so keep an eye out if you're interested.) You see, stiff pant materials can result in muffin tops (and discomfort), while stretchy fabrics often lose their shape. Ponte offers the best of both worlds. But I haven't stopped at the waist-down. Ponte is perfect for blazers (I can finally move my arms) and sheath dresses. The material is making its way into more and more stores and styles. Here are just a few of my favourite ponte offerings.

Ponte seam pant, $29, joefresh.com.

One-button ponte blazer in Light Natural, $130, jacob.ca.

Ponte pleated fit-and-flare dress, $160, bananarepublic.ca.

Two-inch highrise ponte knit shorts, $40, express.com.

Ponte stripe skirt, $29, joefresh.com.