The emergence of technology in fabric development has opened new vistas for manufacturers. Wearing engineered fabric is making lives easy for millennials. This is one major motivator towards fabric innovations. Take for example water repellant fabrics- the newest innovation in textiles taking the world by storm.
By using nanotechnology, it is now possible to create more ‘scientific’ clothing that is mindful of millennial needs and is contributing to meeting environmental goals. As the environment fights a war to bring down carbon emission rates, textile pollution needs to be tackled. Water-repellant fabrics contribute hugely towards sustainable manufacturing processes that save precious natural resources. These are being seen as ‘intelligent eco initiatives’ which are liked by millennials immensely.
When it comes to usability and functionality, the water-repellant fabric is skin-friendly, breathable, and durable. It does not require frequent washes, helps dry off perspiration, is stain proof and therefore works wonders for those who are doing laborious work in the sweltering heat. At Dennison India, the millennial fashion-conscious company has developed a range of shirts in varied sizes and colours, matching the needs of everyone. Whether it is party wear or an office day, the shirts come in bold colours, stripes and patterns that match the fashion sensibility of one and all.
Indian climatic conditions are tilted towards heat, humidity and dry summers. This is one reason that millennials are appreciating water-repellent apparel. It is therefore no wonder that this innovation has grabbed the corporate wear market rapidly as well. Its functionality is par excellence, with a great utility advantage. The concern over fast-moving office-to-party routines is facilitated by clothing that is stain, dust and spill-proof. “We have been almost sold out within a 10-day period since we launched,” adds founder CEO Ashwani Seth at Dennison.
The Anti-Microbial Dry-fit functionality clothing is next on the cards. It will help keep sweat and odour at bay and guarantee germ-free clothing for people on the move.
Technological fabric development has come a long way. Proof of this lies in the fact that companies in the West are seriously designing fabric which can prevent the spread of germs, or absorb hazardous gases and chemicals. This kind of fabric works brilliantly for those engaged in medical, construction or frontline work. A team of researchers at Northwestern University (USA) have already developed fabric (an amalgamation of nanomaterial combined with textile fibres) that can deactivate both biological and chemical threats, therefore revolutionising protective clothing.
The world is moving towards sustainable fashion. From reversible jackets to biodegradable fabric to low-maintenance recyclable fabric, garment manufacturers are trying their best to reduce the carbon footprint of the textile business. The UK has already organized Textiles 2030. It is seen as the most ambitious national voluntary agreement for clothing and other textiles in the world. The ten-year programme aims to transform UK clothing and home fabrics to reduce their impact on climate change. They are taking serious responsibility for irresponsible cloth consumption, cloth dumping and disposal and resulting pollution.
Crossbench peer Baroness Young of Hornsey OBE supports Textiles 2030 and has said to the UK media, “There is an urgent need for us to protect people and the planet from the damaging and unsustainable way we produce and consume clothing and textiles. Innovative, creative and committed collaboration is the key and, in effect, the only way can we succeed in minimising our impact.”
In the near future, fabric innovation is going to make extensive use of AI and technology- all in order to make work and life comfortable, and hassle-free. Environmental concerns will rule the roost for literally all fabric manufacturers and garment makers. As India’s fastest-growing millennial-conscious brand for smart office wear and casuals for men and women, the company is committed to making a sizable contribution to the fashion industry, in the right ways.
