Being a one-stop shop for sustainable fabrics and trims may be the way of the future for sourcing trade shows.
At Munich Fabric Start this week, exhibitors in ReSource, a pavilion dedicated to sustainability, presented Fall/Winter 20-21 fabric and accessories trends.
The mission of ReSource is to introduce brands to eco-conscious suppliers and present ecological material developments and textile innovations. ReSource serves as a curator for products made with recycled and organic components, regenerated cellulosics and alternatives to leather. Biodegradable materials, traceable fibers, GOTS-certified products, upcycled garments and trims made with minimal impact on the environment are highlighted throughout.
The space also underscores how sustainable fashion is not missing a beat when it comes to color, prints and textural interest.
GOTS-certified organic cotton fabrics printed with opulent bird and botanical prints, color saturated fabrics derived from cork and high shine metallic fabrics made with recycled polyester were among the statement-making fabrics. Cotton alternatives like modal, Curpo and Tencel elevated fabrics with a drapey and soft hand feel. Linen and Tencel blends offered a soft yet sturdy option, while thick pile organic cotton fabrics mimicked the feeling of velvet and shearling.
Set to a color palette with names like “zero emissions” white, “naked truth” neutrals and “clean ocean” blue, ReSource also presented a dynamic range of hues achieved through vegetable-based dyes, waterless foam dyes and fabrics tinted with natural elements. Turkish denim mill Orta showcased laser-friendly jeans coated with clay sourced from Cappadocia, a city near the company’s mill.
Sustainable trims provided the finishing touch.
Patches and labels made with recycled leather, compressed leather waste and recycled vegetable tanned leather were ideal for sustainable denim stories. Fabric labels made with organic cotton or recycled polyester served ready-to-wear. OEKO-TEX-approved silicone labels delivered a sporty option.
To make the recycling process more efficient, trim supplier Nilorn Germany presented stainless steel buttons that screw on and off.
And for brands with a sustainable message, ReSource showcased a series of green and creative ways to convey its story through hangtags. Biodegradable plastic, recycled paper and compressed grass fibers were among the materials featured. Other concepts took an upcycled approach and made newly designed hangtags from the waste of old labels.
