<p>Since ancient times, fibrous materials have played a crucial role in human life. Due to their structural features, e.g. a large surface-to-volume ratio and porosity, and enhanced pore connectivity, nanofibrous materials have emerged as a particular area of focus for current research. Among the various related methods, because of the relatively simple equipment required, ease of operation, vast material selection (from polymers to inorganics), and feasibility of continuous production and industrial upscaling, electrospinning is widely utilised to fabricate nanofibres. Advancements in electrospinning technology depend on advancements in both our theoretical understanding and design of advanced manufacturing equipment for the widespread commercial applications of electrospun fibrous materials. This review examines electrospinning technology, covering its fundamental principles, experimental configurations, and diverse applications. Ways to customise the chemical, structural, and functional characteristics of electrospun nanofibres are discussed, with these customizations being essential for such fibres’ wide range of uses, such as in creating waterproof and breathable membranes, air filtration, warmth retention, noise reduction, high-temperature insulation, energy harvesting and storage, biomedicine, and emerging fields. Finally, this paper addresses current challenges facing electrospinning technology and offers future directions of research and development as well as prospective applications.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>