Sustainability
Sustainable Innovations presents Key Conversations
Launch of our digital Sustainable Innovations forum with Key Conversations
As the curator of the Sustainable Innovations Forum, Simon Angel keeps an ear close to the ground when it comes to the latest material developments and emerging design concepts. It’s no surprise then that from years of experience he is an expert in cultivating relationships and bridging conversations to strengthen connection and progress in the world of Sustainable Innovations. Don’t miss to read about last seasons’ developments presented physically in the Sustainable Innovations forum at MUNICH FABRIC START.
“I’ve always thought of the Sustainable Innovations Forum as a podium, the forum is a place where we can have conversations, discuss ideas and share information. It has become a place for connection and collaboration. In times when designers and sustainable innovators are isolated and we cannot meet as before, it is important that we do not lose this connection. “
Simon Angel, Curator of the Sustainable Innovations Forum
Together with Simon, we have initiated a new video series we are calling ‘Key Conversations’ as an extended platform of the Sustainable Innovations forum. Hoping to provide designers and innovators with the opportunity to prompt and exchange ideas.
Even though designers may feel a sense of disconnection as they work alone in their studios, there is still so much exciting progress being made. By inviting designers to join him in conversation, Simon hopes to resolve this paradox and once again create another platform for connection and facilitate an open exchange of unique insights and experiences.
What is Key Conversations?
Simon will invite designers and innovators from his network as well as past and present members of sustainable innovations community to join him in video conversation. We can look forward to the same lively and friendly interaction which is key to getting to the heart of the projects which Simon will bring on board here. Our goal is to offer tangible insights which can led to real life applications and collaborations by sharing these conversations with our online community.
What is the goal of these conversations?
Collaboration through conversation is key. By revealing insights and sharing an open dialogue there is an opportunity to connect and broaden the scope of what we believe is possible for designers and brands. We hope readers of this blog and viewers who watch our videos can connect with the projects on a deeper level and jump on the profiles and websites of the designers to learn more. There is always a chance to take part in the conversation by sending an email to Simon Angel or the designers featured.
What innovations will we hear about?
We are keen to provide our community with an update from our previous participates of the Sustainable Innovations Forum. Especially, we will hear about the progress and growth of their concepts since joining us at the Keyhouse. As well as this, Simon will speak with innovators in the fields of organic material development, natural dyeing solutions, and the use of natural resources in technology, among many more unique and diverse topics.
What now?
New videos and interviews will be shared on our social media channels and Munique Blog. We will feature upcoming articles here in an easy collection coming soon!
Let’s keep the conversation going … did this project spark an idea or do you have any questions? We’d love to hear from you, send us an email to info@munichfabricstart.com
A Look Back at 2020
A LOOK BACK AT 2020 WITH SIMON ANGEL
ARTICLE BY SIMON ANGEL, CURATOR OF SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS FORUM
It is popular to indulge in the mindset that we must put 2020 behind us and as quickly as possible. Ready to leave 2020 in the past and look only to the New Year for the future. As if there lays hope in 2021, like a magic wand it would undo and restart the world anew. But we must look back in order to look forward which is especially the case for creative innovator. In a year confronted with radical change, I can look back and break down general defining responses into three categories as:
Those who ‘endured’ change.
Those who ‘embraced’ change.
Those who ‘ignored’ change.
I think, as an allegory, this is what designers and developers ‘do’ every day. It is part of their daily practice: endure, challenge and ignore. From this perspective the majority of society is now familiar with the same practices designers have faced working in their studios’.
Looking back at 2020 among the broad network of designers and students, I am pleased to see that they have continued their practices. Perhaps you’ll be surprised to hear that a lot of them even made profit from the changes that Corona brought us. Designers from the sustainable front were celebrated. Shy geniuses were noticed and people who were previously unaware of the major flaws in the fashion and textile industry, could no longer ignore the cracks in the system: 2020 revealed the cracks and broadened awareness.
A positive response to change: the focus on sustainability and the sense of urgency to work in this way has never been clearer and has never before revealed the system ‘as a whole’ as clearly as it seems ‘NOW’. In previous articles, I pointed out that designers have a natural instinct to reflect on their contribution, to focus on their niche-solution but to observe the system as a whole. Discover the Sustainable Innovations series on the Munique Blog.
Now, however, the designers are no longer the front runners and exhausted messengers, screaming alone into the dessert. Instead, the industry: mills, dyers, production factories, governments and consumers seem to join forces and come together to solve the bigger problems in the system. This sense of urgency is a huge call for collaboration.
Meaning that our designers are free to take up a new position, leading innovation to new frontiers without the frustration of static movement from the industry. More and more, designers are re-thinkers and importantly, value collaborators. From this perspective I am very hopeful. We are still in a stage of responding to the established system, economy and behaviours … BUT I am very sure that the movement of change will continue to get stronger and broader than ever.
The challenge for now is to keep the focus on virtue, value and volume which has been the focus of our Sustainable Innovations forum since the January 2019 edition of Munich Fabric Start.
Virtue: having an idea about what you do, why you act and how this impacts society and our planet in a positive way
Value: the added value to the system, others and the whole as an effect on a certain act
Volume: think modest and act from need, not from greed
So, the actual risk in times of corona is to stress the choice between polarising OR collaborating; You are either ‘for’ or ‘against’. You are ‘in’ or ‘out’. The nuances, differences and challenges disappear from the stage. In the textile industry there is only one way: bridging the differences, uniting our similarities and cherish our authentic strengths, reminding me of the ‘Reach out and touch’ song.
The textile industry, as a front runner on fashion, can serve as the blueprint for a changing society and business practices. The ‘good’ practice. Connecting with the fact that all throughout history there exists no closer relationship to the human skin as textiles.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
“I’m always keen to bring inspiring topics and sustainable projects into the spotlight through my work at the Sustainable Innovations forum at Munich Fabric Start and with each of my contributions to the Munique Blog. Check out @simonangelmfs for more sustainable projects, inspiration and discovery.“
Simon Angel | sa@simonangel.nl
Sustainable Sourcing with ReSOURCE
SUSTAINABLE SOURCING WITH RESOURCE
Every season we see new sustainable novelties and extended eco ranges popping up among many of the collections showcased at our shows. As the majority of manufacturers who join us for any given season will say, if they hope to satisfy the global urgency for sustainable products, it is crucial to focus on sustainability along the whole supply chain.
Of course, we wouldn’t leave it to our visitors to find all the sustainable components they require among some 1000 manufacturers across all four halls in the MOC, Munich. This is why we established ReSOURCE in 2018 as the follower of the previous Organic Selection area to provide our guests with a convenient and efficient selection of responsible fabrics and trims. Making it possible to discover a diverse and fresh showcase of sustainable products all in one inspiring location. Our area for sustainable sourcing has grown into a space where teams discover new possibilities in the world of responsible fashion and textiles.
At each edition of ReSOURCE, visitors can meet with our experts from international certification organisations, IVN, GOTS and OEKO-TEX. The certification seals offered by the independent certifications ensure credibility and build consumer confidence that they are supporting sustainable textile production among many other things. Discover their most frequently asked questions here.
As well as offering textile solutions for a circular economy, visitors can also discover the latest innovations created with resource saving technologies, environmentally friendly processes as well as non-harmful technologies for wet processing. With further developments in vegan leathers and accessories and plastic free packaging solutions also on showcase with ReSOURCE.
With approximately 800 articles, ReSOURCE presents the latest in sustainable fabric, leather, packaging, threads and accessory solutions in recycled, organic, GOTS, regenerated cellulosics, bioplastics and leather alternatives among many more sustainable qualities. The established collection features more than 40 unique certificates to certify their sustainable qualities with new showcases including a biobased PA stretch fabrics by Brugnoli Giovanni, leathers made of reclaimed and recycled leathers by Raus S., a new range of cupro fabrics by Ipeker in varying weights and colours plus a broad selection in certified organics by Life Clothes, Marzotto Wool and Hornung and many more.
Trims, accessories and labelling solutions come with a range of certifications, often showcasing the latest novelty such as biodegradable labels infused with sunflower seeds by Könen Additionals which can be planted and used to grow your own flowers after use. The vegan leather made of pineapple by We Nordic who also produce labels made of Bagasse, the waste product in sugar refinement processes. With many suppliers many suppliers including, Estro, Union Knopf and Nilorn offering a range of buttons made of natural materials such as shell, horn, wood, coconut and plants.
Many exciting updates coming soon to the ReSOURCE online sourcing platform.
AW 21/22 Trend Analysis #5: Gameshifter
AW 21/22 Trend Analysis: GAMESHIFTER
The Autumn.Winter 21/22 Trend Forecast by MUNICH FABRIC START presents HOPETIMISM, this season’s title which stands for hope and optimism – it is a mindset that explores new ways and perspectives. Its spirit brings our industry together during a very challenging time to design innovative products and processes that fulfil new market needs. The MUNICH FABRIC START Trend Team presents the 5 trend themes for AW21/22: FOREVER, DREAMATIC, EARTHTOPIA HAPPY CHAOS & GAMESHIFTER.
HOPETIMISM AW21/22 Trend Themes
FOREVER stands for semi-elegant, cosy and classic home & all day wear.
DREAMATIC creatively stages a progressive and urban casual fashion.
EARTHTOPIA shows a strong consciousness for function and tradition.
HAPPY CHAOS is an optimistic playground for sports, diy, craftsmanship and improvisation.
GAMESHIFTER combines futuristic high-tech innovation with flashy glamour.
Now we look at the final trend theme GAMESHIFTER:
HOPETIMISM TREND THEME #5: GAMESHIFTER
GAMESHIFTER is a word play made up of Gamechanger and Shapeshifter. Existing realities are mixed with visionary prospects for the future. Gamechangers are changing the world and may be the ones to find the vaccine against Covid-19, while a Shapeshifter make sure of artifitial intelligence as a hybrid between a man and a machine.
With GAMESHIFTER, the combination of both these influences form a trend that awakens the desire for the right balance of consumption, that is both desired and allowed.
We dive into a world of dark colours, which also has something mystical and dystopian about it. The palette is energized by rich, silky, decorative baroque colours. The sporty mix of these colours creates an exciting colour palette.
For the full AW21/22 Trend Forecast which includes Pantone, Coloro and Archroma colour codes combines a mix of fashion trends, sustainability and innovation alongside current inspirations in art, culture, architecture and design, order your copy here.
GAMESHIFTER allows two different material worlds to meet. On the one hand that of stable and dramatic fabrics and trimmings, in which a functional approach determines the decorative material development. This is achieved with powerful synthetics, polyamide sportswear, structural volume, quilted and embossed textiles, jacquard, tech jersey or fly knit.
For accessories, the material mix combines lamé, lurex, glitter and dark metallic colours for buttons and ribbons.
Take a look through the fabric and accessories highlighted in the GAMESHIFTER trend theme showcased in the HOPETIMISM Trend Forum at Fabric Days, 1-3 September 2020 in Munich.
The full Autumn.Winter 21/22 Trend Forecast is available to order from our website. For further trend information in the following categories:
Emotions and Moods
Fabrics and Materials
Fashion and Classic Styles
Technology and Science
Thrivability Values as innovative sustainable impulses
Covid-19 influences for a future in times of a pandemic
Order the full AW21/22 Trend Forecast here.
OPENING TIMES
2. MARCH 2021 · 9:30 – 18:30
3. MARCH 2021 · 9:30 – 18:30
4. MARCH 2021 · 9:30 – 16:00
LOCATION
MOC Munich | Halls 1 – 4 Groundfloor
Lilienthalallee 40
Germany, 80939, Munich
AW 21/22 Trend Analysis #4: Happy Chaos
AW 21/22 Trend Analysis: HAPPY CHAOS
The Autumn.Winter 21/22 Trend Forecast by MUNICH FABRIC START presents HOPETIMISM, this season’s title which stands for hope and optimism – it is a mindset that explores new ways and perspectives. Its spirit brings our industry together during a very challenging time to design innovative products and processes that fulfil new market needs. The MUNICH FABRIC START Trend Team presents the 5 trend themes for AW21/22: FOREVER, DREAMATIC, EARTHTOPIA HAPPY CHAOS & GAMESHIFTER.
HOPETIMISM AW21/22 Trend Themes
FOREVER stands for semi-elegant, cosy and classic home & all day wear.
DREAMATIC creatively stages a progressive and urban casual fashion.
EARTHTOPIA shows a strong consciousness for function and tradition.
HAPPY CHAOS is an optimistic playground for sports, diy, craftsmanship and improvisation.
GAMESHIFTER combines futuristic high-tech innovation with flashy glamour.
Next we look at the trend theme HAPPY CHAOS:
HOPETIMISM TREND THEME #4: HAPPY CHAOS
Characteristic for the HAPPY CHAOS are the optimistic doers in the interplay of new digital and analogue realities and identities. Problems are mastered in a playful way, an open approach to the new family reality is cultivated. Thanks to the influences of technology, real ideas in this field are served virtually – for example, through digital fashion collections on social media channels that are only shown online and are not available in reality.
We find ourselves between gaming, digital learning and working. HAPPY CHAOS is loud, exaggerated and excessive. This is also reflected in the HAPPY CHAOS colour palette:
Soft, natural basic colours such as neutral brown and khaki tones are contrasted with cheerful, bright Nintendo colours. Offwhite plays with intense colours like sporty fake neons in yellow and blue through brightness and depth.
For the full AW21/22 Trend Forecast which includes Pantone, Coloro and Archroma colour codes combines a mix of fashion trends, sustainability and innovation alongside current inspirations in art, culture, architecture and design, order your copy here.
HAPPY CHAOS uses a wild mix of materials; vinyl meets recycled polyester, cotton and unusual textiles. Transparency also plays a major role – in materials, finishes and accessories.Trims are often laser-cut or have metallic details. Patterns appear as if created by a random generator, with digital prints and unpredictable collages. Strong, intense colours are often used, but only subtly, and combined with natural elements.
Take a look through the fabric and accessories highlighted in the HAPPY CHAOS trend theme showcased in the HOPETIMISM Trend Forum at Fabric Days, 1-3 September 2020 in Munich.
The full Autumn.Winter 21/22 Trend Forecast is available to order from our website. For further trend information in the following categories:
Emotions and Moods
Fabrics and Materials
Fashion and Classic Styles
Technology and Science
Thrivability Values as innovative sustainable impulses
Covid-19 influences for a future in times of a pandemic
Order the full AW21/22 Trend Forecast here.
OPENING TIMES
2. MARCH 2021 · 9:30 – 18:30
3. MARCH 2021 · 9:30 – 18:30
4. MARCH 2021 · 9:30 – 16:00
LOCATION
MOC Munich | Halls 1 – 4 Groundfloor
Lilienthalallee 40
Germany, 80939, Munich
AW 21/22 Trend Analysis #3: Earthtopia
AW 21/22 Trend Analysis: EARTHTOPIA
The Autumn.Winter 21/22 Trend Forecast by MUNICH FABRIC START presents HOPETIMISM, this season’s title which stands for hope and optimism – it is a mindset that explores new ways and perspectives. Its spirit brings our industry together during a very challenging time to design innovative products and processes that fulfil new market needs. The MUNICH FABRIC START Trend Team presents the 5 trend themes for AW21/22: FOREVER, DREAMATIC, EARTHTOPIA HAPPY CHAOS & GAMESHIFTER.
HOPETIMISM AW21/22 Trend Themes
FOREVER stands for semi-elegant, cosy and classic home & all day wear.
DREAMATIC creatively stages a progressive and urban casual fashion.
EARTHTOPIA shows a strong consciousness for function and tradition.
HAPPY CHAOS is an optimistic playground for sports, diy, craftsmanship and improvisation.
GAMESHIFTER combines futuristic high-tech innovation with flashy glamour.
We focus next on the trend theme EARTHTOPIA:
HOPETIMISM TREND THEME #3: EARTHTOPIA
EARTHTOPIA is made up of EARTH and UTOPIA and deals with the desire and striving for a healthier world. We want to give something back to the earth, give it space to recover. But it is also about the human being who recovers in nature and recharges his resources.
Especially in challenging times such as the current situation, there are more people than ever drawn to nature to pursue the longing for silence and peace. But EARTHTOPIA also puts nature itself in a central light – gigantic and imposing. The power of the forest, of water, mountains and glaciers becomes tangible and visible here.
In keeping with the theme, the focus is on natural colour tones that especially appear through warm-cold-contrasts. The spectrum of colours ranges from coloured stone tones to warmer earthy, muddy and mossy nuances. Accents in this natural palette are set by a fiery rust tone and an icy glacial mint.
For the full AW21/22 Trend Forecast which includes Pantone, Coloro and Archroma colour codes combines a mix of fashion trends, sustainability and innovation alongside current inspirations in art, culture, architecture and design, order your copy here.
This trend is about traditional materials that have a technical function – often also in a material mix: for example, in the form of natural materials mixed with synthetics. At the same time, the search is on for recycled and innovative trimming materials.
The atmosphere of wilderness and adventure is created by faux fur and teddy plush, but also natural dyes and camouflage bacterial stains. The same applies to functional patching in muted earth colours and the use of wood, stone, nut and cotton linen as materials. Prints are mainly replicas of nature, while traditional checks and herringbone also set the tone for prints.
Take a look through the fabric and accessories highlighted in the EARTHTOPIA trend theme showcased in the HOPETIMISM Trend Forum at Fabric Days, 1-3 September 2020 in Munich.
The full Autumn.Winter 21/22 Trend Forecast is available to order from our website. For further trend information in the following categories:
Emotions and Moods
Fabrics and Materials
Fashion and Classic Styles
Technology and Science
Thrivability Values as innovative sustainable impulses
Covid-19 influences for a future in times of a pandemic
Order the full AW21/22 Trend Forecast here.
OPENING TIMES
2. MARCH 2021 · 9:30 – 18:30
3. MARCH 2021 · 9:30 – 18:30
4. MARCH 2021 · 9:30 – 16:00
LOCATION
MOC Munich | Halls 1 – 4 Groundfloor
Lilienthalallee 40
Germany, 80939, Munich
AW 21/22 Trend Analysis #2: Dreamatic
AW 21/22 Trend Analysis: DREAMATIC
The Autumn.Winter 21/22 Trend Forecast by MUNICH FABRIC START presents HOPETIMISM, this season’s title which stands for hope and optimism – it is a mindset that explores new ways and perspectives. Its spirit brings our industry together during a very challenging time to design innovative products and processes that fulfil new market needs. The MUNICH FABRIC START Trend Team presents the 5 trend themes for AW21/22: FOREVER, DREAMATIC, EARTHTOPIA HAPPY CHAOS & GAMESHIFTER.
HOPETIMISM AW21/22 Trend Themes
FOREVER stands for semi-elegant, cosy and classic home & all day wear.
DREAMATIC creatively stages a progressive and urban casual fashion.
EARTHTOPIA shows a strong consciousness for function and tradition.
HAPPY CHAOS is an optimistic playground for sports, diy, craftsmanship and improvisation.
GAMESHIFTER combines futuristic high-tech innovation with flashy glamour.
We focus next on the trend theme DREAMATIC:
HOPETIMISM TREND THEME #2: DREAMATIC
DREAMATIC is a word creation combining DREAM and DRAMATIC – the theme is characterised by longing and melancholy, merged with a positive outlook. Here you will find the progressive poets and visionaries who actively seek solutions to current challenges. These digital humanists are dreamy and imaginative, but always have a connection to reality. With this attitude, worlds can be moved.
Blue is the focus here and represents the fluidity and movement of water and air. Contrasted by delicate natural tones such as hibiscus or vicuna. The distinct look of this trend comes from the faded primary colours and degradé tones, which can be found in shades of blues and reds.
For the full AW21/22 Trend Forecast which includes Pantone, Coloro and Archroma colour codes combines a mix of fashion trends, sustainability and innovation alongside current inspirations in art, culture, architecture and design, order your copy here.
When it comes to fabrics and materials, we encounter provocative, punk batiks and pastel fades, which are combined with classics such as a simple herringbone coat or elegant pumps. Classic elements in delicate colours with highly technical 3D patterns are decorated in a charming way and produced with a high attention to detail and craftsmanship. Romantic floral prints are found in combination with shiny, reflective, technical or transparent materials.
Take a look through the fabric and accessories highlighted in the DREAMATIC trend theme showcased in the HOPETISIM Trend Forum at Fabric Days, 1-3 September 2020 in Munich.
The full Autumn.Winter 21/22 Trend Forecast is available to order from our website. For further trend information in the following categories:
Emotions and Moods
Fabrics and Materials
Fashion and Classic Styles
Technology and Science
Thrivability Values as innovative sustainable impulses
Covid-19 influences for a future in times of a pandemic
Order the full AW21/22 Trend Forecast here.
OPENING TIMES
2. MARCH 2021 · 9:30 – 18:30
3. MARCH 2021 · 9:30 – 18:30
4. MARCH 2021 · 9:30 – 16:00
LOCATION
MOC Munich | Halls 1 – 4 Groundfloor
Lilienthalallee 40
Germany, 80939, Munich
AW 21/22 Trend Analysis #1: Forever
AW 21/22 Trend Analysis: FOREVER
The Autumn.Winter 21/22 Trend Forecast by MUNICH FABRIC START presents HOPETIMISM, this season’s title which stands for hope and optimism – it is a mindset that explores new ways and perspectives. Its spirit brings our industry together during a very challenging time to design innovative products and processes that fulfil new market needs. The MUNICH FABRIC START Trend Team presents the 5 trend themes for AW21/22: FOREVER, DREAMATIC, EARTHTOPIA HAPPY CHAOS & GAMESHIFTER.
HOPETIMISM AW21/22 Trend Themes
FOREVER stands for semi-elegant, cosy and classic home & all day wear.
DREAMATIC creatively stages a progressive and urban casual fashion.
EARTHTOPIA shows a strong consciousness for function and tradition.
HAPPY CHAOS is an optimistic playground for sports, diy, craftsmanship and improvisation.
GAMESHIFTER combines futuristic high-tech innovation with flashy glamour.
We start with the first trend theme of FOREVER:
HOPETIMISM TREND THEME #1: FOREVER
FOREVER stands for durability, timeless and high-quality materials. It revolves around the question of what is really important to us. Inspired by the new home office life that continues to accompany us, we mix athleisure with classics. As corona purists, we wear rediscovered basics and classics – favourite pieces that we already have in our wardrobe.
The FOREVER colour palette consists of timeless and classic colours that have rational, but also emotional nuances. A strong light to dark theme with deep blue, dark loden green, washed out black, medium grey and neutral beige forms the basis. These are complemented by refreshed classics such as delicate rosé, light blue and a full bordeaux tone.
For the full AW21/22 Trend Forecast includes Pantone, Coloro and Archroma colour codes combines a mix of fashion trends, sustainability and innovation alongside current inspirations in art, culture, architecture and design, order your copy here. Take a look through the fabric and accessories highlighted in the FOREVER trend theme showcased in the HOPETISIM Trend Forum at Fabric Days, 1-3 September 2020 in Munich.
The full Autumn.Winter 21/22 Trend Forecast is available to order from our website. For further trend information in the following categories:
Emotions and Moods
Fabrics and Materials
Fashion and Classic Styles
Technology and Science
Thrivability Values as innovative sustainable impulses
Covid-19 influences for a future in times of a pandemic
Order the full AW21/22 Trend Forecast here.
OPENING TIMES
2. MARCH 2021 · 9:30 – 18:30
3. MARCH 2021 · 9:30 – 18:30
4. MARCH 2021 · 9:30 – 16:00
LOCATION
MOC Munich | Halls 1 – 4 Groundfloor
Lilienthalallee 40
Germany, 80939, Munich
From Trash to Treasure by Youyang Song
SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS Autumn.Winter 21/22 #4
Dutchman Simon Angel has found a talented designer whose innovation makes it possible to create textiles from recycled bioplastics. The curator of SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS presented these and three other developments during the FABRIC DAYS.
„More and more, we are moving towards an era of adhocracy. Transferring this into the material and textile world: Materiality and comfort will experience a comeback”, explains Simon Angle in our interview with him.
An example of this is presented here as part of the SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS:
FROM TRASH TO TREASURE BY YOUYANG SONG
How can innovative products be created without using new resources? How can we stop growing mountains of waste? Use the old to create the new: The designer and materials researcher Youyang Song has set herself the goal of helping to develop an ecosystem consisting of purely biodegradable materials. Handbags made of banana peel, lampshades made of soy milk – the designer processes organic waste into new recyclable materials. This results in products that can be returned to the natural cycle at the end of the product life cycle.
„Our goal is to establish a circular economy regarding the materials and follow the sustainable development guidelines to create our products.“
Youyang Song
Song has developed the “Cooking new materials” technique, in which fruit peels or soy milk are mixed with a natural binding agent. “APeel” is the name of the soft, innovative material created by this process. The natural product is also waterproof and robust like real leather, smells fruity, has a natural texture and is completely biodegradable. Protecting the environment in style: With her project, Song wants to show that environmentally friendly products can be not only practical, but also aesthetic and stylish.
Perfect Imperfection by Studio Mend
SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS Autumn.Winter 21/22 #3
FABRIC DAYS presented futuristic innovations of international manufacturers. Besides, Sustainable Innovations curator Simon Angel introduced innovative developments of young designers in the SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS forum.
“Rethinking old traditions and adding a contemporary note to them can create innovation – sometimes you don’t have to come up with something entirely new to be innovative”, states Simon Angle in our interview with him.
An example of this “traditional innovation” is:
PERFECT IMPERFECTION BY STUDIO MEND
A new pair of jeans for 29,99€, a t-shirt for 7,99€. Constantly changing trends, synthetic fabrics and inferior quality: Since fast fashion conquered the world in the 1960’s, new clothes are available everywhere and at all times. What is broken is thrown away and what is no longer in fashion lies unused in the cupboard. More than two million tonnes of textile waste are generated annually in the European Union alone. When did our relationship to clothing change in such a way? This question was asked by the young fashion designer Sunniva Amber Flesland. She founded Studio Mend in 2019 to bring back the emotional and material value of what we wear.
“I am excited by raw material, old crafts and traditions, beauty, and looking for potential where it’s not easily seen.”
Sunniva Amber Flesland
Appreciate, repair, refine: At Studio Mend, traces of wear and tear from through the lifespan of the garments are repaired in a very special way. Island Weave, Edge Mend, Pinstripe Patch, Crossover Stitch: The customer can choose between these four carefully developed technical styles to make his or her damaged favourite piece whole again. In combination with individual colour designs, valued and unique pieces are created. The acceptance of transience and imperfection – this is the basic principle of the Japanese philosophy Wabi Sabi, which served as inspiration for Flesland. Instead of hiding faults, they are celebrated as signs of an eventful life. Visibly and ingeniously, the artist creates valuable, aesthetic and unique pieces as a statement for a better fashion world.
