Fabric and yarn innovation has achieved a great start for 2017. From designer collaborations to thermal energy capabilities, they are climbing to new heights and dynamically changing how people are impacted by textiles in their homes and wardrobes.
Naia
Naia, a cellulosic yarn created by Eastman, was introduced at Interfilière Paris on Jan. 21. Naia’s silky hand, natural luster and breathability make it a prime choice for luxurious lingerie garments, evening apparel and everyday wear. Naia is developed from wood pulp derived from certified and sustainably managed forests. It also fulfills consumers’ performance for moisture management, stain resistance and easy care. The yarn is versatile and can be used alone or blended to create a variety of textures and patterns.
Schoeller
Schoeller textiles are upping the ante on water repellent fabrics. In January, the Switzerland-based textiles provider introduced new liquid resistant schoeller-shape reflex fabrics in its Schoeller Winter 2018/2019 collection, Fibre2Fashion reported. The new water-repellent fabrics feature metallic gloss effects, reflective capabilities and Ecorepel Bio, a plant cuticle-based film that allows water droplets to run off garments’ surfaces. Created with 100 percent cotton, the new Schoeller WB-400 fabrics could be incorporated into trench coats for premium comfort, dryness and warmth during winter months.
Woolmark
On Jan. 16, Woolmark and designer Raf Simons announced that they are collaborating on Simons’ Autumn/Winter 2017 collection. Simon’s upcoming line will feature fine Merino wool jersey, wovens and knits that are sourced from top global fiber manufacturers, including Maniffatura Sesia and Olimpias Group. Together, Woolmark and Simons are revolutionizing the way fibers are used in luxury apparel and demonstrating how Merino wool could be incorporated into various contemporary fashion pieces.
Milliken
As consumers continue to demand more sustainable fabrics, Milliken is stepping up to the plate with its latest innovation. On Jan. 31, the South Carolina-based fabric provider debuted Breathe by Milliken, a new collection of eco-elegant performance upholstery fabric. As the industry’s first fluorine-free performance fabrics, Breathe materials are durable, soft and repel everyday stains. Breath materials are created using recycled fibers from plastic bottles, which minimizes the industry’s impact on the environment. With Breathe fabrics, consumers have the reassurance that their home upholstery fabrics are environmentally-friendly and not damaging to the planet.
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Nilit Fibers and LincSpun
At ISPO Munich on Feb. 5, Nilit Fibers and LincSpun launched a superpower fabric that shields skin from UV radiation and invigorates muscles. Both performance fiber companies created Nilit Innergy, a nylon 6.6 yarn that captures body heat, reflects it back as far infrared rays (FIR) and gently aids post-workout muscle recovery. The yarn is durable and odor resistant as well, which makes it an efficient fabric choice for casual clothes and activewear garments.