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‘Plastic Free July’, the global movement against plastic waste, highlights a lesser-known environmental challenge: microplastic pollution stemming from synthetic fabrics. With alarming statistics revealing the impact of microplastics on our ecosystems, the fashion industry faces increasing pressure to embrace change.
The hidden problem in our closets
Microplastics, tiny plastic particles, pose a serious threat to our environment. Textile microplastics, derived from petroleum-based fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic, are a major contributor to this crisis. The fashion industry's reliance on synthetic fibers has far-reaching consequences, from the staggering 342 million barrels of oil used annually to produce them, to the estimated 35 per cent f ocean microplastics originating from washing synthetic clothing. These minuscule fibers, shed during laundry, infiltrate our waterways, air, and soil, ultimately entering the food chain and posing potential health risks. Microplastics' long decomposition time, spanning hundreds of years, further exacerbates the problem.
Cotton, a natural solution
Amidst growing environmental concerns, a simple yet effective solution emerges: switching to natural fibers like cotton. "Cotton biodegrades in a relatively quick time," explains Jesse Daystar, Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer, Cotton Incorporated. "Meanwhile, synthetic fibers take hundreds if not thousands of years to decompose."
This biodegradability, stemming from cotton's natural cellulose-based structure, resonates with consumers. According to a Cotton Incorporated study, 76 per cent consumers prioritize clothing made from biodegradable materials.
Brands leading the change
Brands like Andine are already championing natural fibers. Founder and designer Elisabeth Weinstock emphasizes the brand's commitment to quality and sustainability, stating, "Andine strives for quality goods made from natural fibers." This focus on natural materials aligns with consumer preferences. Studies show that 65 per cent consumers check fiber content labels to avoid synthetics, while 29 per cent express concern about brands' use of synthetic fibers. Further, 45 per cent are now aware of the microplastic pollution caused by laundering synthetic clothing.
Yvonne Johnson, Cotton Incorporated's senior director of product development, highlights the advantages of cotton: "Cotton fabrics can be engineered with permanent ventilating openings for enhanced breathability." Branded technologies like TransDRY and Wicking Windows offer natural moisture-management solutions for activewear, resonating with the 58 per cent of consumers who prefer cotton-rich activewear.
Consumer demand for sustainability
Retailers should consider that nearly two-fifths of consumers prioritize sustainability when choosing brands. Moreover, 81 per cent believe better quality garments are made from all-natural fibers like cotton. Andine's success with cotton-based products underscores this consumer preference. Weinstock notes, "Derived from plant fibers, cotton is breathable, durable, and wonderfully soft to wear."
The fashion industry's shift towards natural fibers like cotton represents a promising step towards a more sustainable future. As brands embrace innovation and prioritize eco-conscious choices, they can help combat microplastic pollution and meet the growing consumer demand for sustainable fashion.
In a bid to revolutionise the Indian cotton industry, Kasturi Cotton aims to adopt a stringent specification-based standard to establish new benchmarks for quality and transparency in the industry.
At the core of Kasturi Cotton’s strategy is a state-of-the-art blockchain traceability platform, which guarantees complete transparency and authenticity of the cotton’s journey, from farm to finished product. This technology enables stakeholders, including consumers, to track the cotton through every stage of production, fostering trust and accountability. The platform is designed to adapt to changing regulations, ensuring compliance with both current and future global supply chain requirements.
Kasturi Cotton’s dedication goes beyond product excellence, focusing on sustainability and education. In partnership with Indian Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), the company works to raise awareness among farmers about best practices and sustainable farming methods. Through its collaboration with the Better Cotton Initiative, Kasturi Cotton ensures its products meet stringent sustainability standards while maintaining the brand’s hallmark of high quality. This initiative is further supported by partnerships with Regenagri Cotton and Organic Cotton, broadening its commitment to offering sustainable cotton options.
Since its launch, the Kasturi Cotton program has significantly impacted the Indian cotton industry, transforming perceptions of Indian cotton by showcasing its potential for top-tier performance. Early adopters, including major industry players like Trident Group, Arvind Ltd., Indo Count, and Vardhman, have reported improved operational efficiency, faster turnaround times, and superior quality, highlighting the program’s success in delivering high-grade cotton.
Buoyed by this success, Kasturi Cotton is exploring further expansion. The company plans to introduce new cotton varieties, including Extra Long Staple (ELS) cotton with fiber lengths of 31 mm and beyond, in addition to the current 29 mm and 30 mm staple lengths. This expansion aims to meet the growing demand for luxury cotton products, adding a new dimension to the brand’s offerings.
By prioritising quality, environmental responsibility, and comprehensive traceability, Kasturi Cotton is emerging as a top choice for brands and consumers worldwide. As the program evolves, it is poised to reshape the global cotton market and elevate the standards of Indian cotton. With its forward-thinking approach and commitment to excellence, Kasturi Cotton is on track to become a leader in the international market, providing products that meet the highest standards of quality and sustainability.
Increased investments in expanding its retail network led to Dolce & Gabbana Holding widening its operating loss to€13 million ($14.4 million) during the fiscal year ending in March 2024The company had reported an operating loss of €1 million in the previous fiscal year, as per the documents submitted to the Italian Chamber of Commerce.
Revenues of the holding company, which manages the Italian fashion house founded by Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce, grew by 17 per cent to €1,87 billion during the 12 months ending March ’24.
Accounting for 50 per cent of the company’s business from the fashion and home division, European sales increased by 6 per cent Y-o-Y while sales in other regions including the US declined. The company recorded a 13 per cent decline in sales in the American market.
The slowdown in demand for luxury goods, following a strong post-pandemic surge, has presented challenges for many brands, with performance across the sector varying widely. In July, Reuters reported that Dolce & Gabbana might be seeking a minority investor, after Alfonso Dolce, CEO indicated, the company might consider either this option or a potential stock market listing.
The intersection of heritage and innovation was the focal point of a ground breaking collaboration between US-born golf brand Ashworth and emerging Hong Kong label Mountain Yam, unveiled at the Centrestage Hong Kong trade show. The capsule collection, a testament to the duo's shared passion for sports and fashion, marked a significant step towards modernizing traditional golfing apparel.
A match made in heaven
Ashworth, renowned for its technical expertise in golfing apparel, contributed its decades of experience to the collaboration. Mountain Yam, known for his bold prints and vibrant colour palettes, infused the collection with a youthful and contemporary aesthetic. The resulting synergy was evident in the "evolution" theme that underpinned the collection, transforming traditional golf wear into cutting-edge athleisure fashion.
For Mountain Yam, the collaboration was a new venture into the world of performance sportswear. "The collaboration started because we both love sports," the designer explained. "Ashworth usually offers traditional golf wear, and we wanted to add more elements into their line so it was wearable on a daily basis."
Casualizing golf wear The collaboration aligned with Ashworth's broader strategy of infusing fashion into golf, a trend that has gained significant traction among Hong Kong consumers. The runway show at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on September 4 showcased the capsule collection as the grand finale, contrasting starkly with the more traditional looks presented earlier.
"Working with Yam was Ashworth's first step into casualizing part of its offering," said William Fu, CEO of YGM Trading. "He understood the more commercial side to the collaboration. You have to have a sense of that, because at the end of the day, we are not couture."
The rise of athleisure
The collaboration comes at a time when athleisure is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. The summer of sports, from the Olympics to the Euros, has ignited a renewed interest in athleticism. Golf, in particular, has maintained a steady demand despite fluctuations in other parts of the apparel industry.
In Hong Kong, golf has a long-standing appeal, driven in part by the city's British colonial heritage. YGM Group's acquisition of Ashworth in 2019 was a strategic move to capitalize on the sport's rising popularity.
YGM's Focus on Hong Kong
YGM Trading, the Hong Kong-based firm that owns Ashworth, has been expanding the brand's presence internationally. While the company has faced challenges in Mainland China, it remains committed to the Hong Kong market, where golf continues to enjoy steady growth.
"Centrestage is more focused on local brands, local designers," William explained. "So the reason we attended was, firstly, because of Mountain and so that we could show our support for local designers, to help them get onto a different stage."
As Ashworth continues to evolve and innovate, the collaboration with Mountain Yam is a testament to the brand's commitment to staying relevant in the ever-changing world of fashion and sports. With future collaborations with other young designers in the pipeline, Ashworth is poised to make a significant impact on the athleisure market.
Bharat Tex 2025 is poised to redefine the Indian textile industry, offering a unique blend of trade, innovation, and fashion. Scheduled for February 14-17, 2025, this event promises to be a global hub for textile manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers.
A ‘Fashion-Forward’ focus
One of the most exciting aspects of Bharat Tex 2025 is its emphasis on fashion. The dedicated ‘Fashion Zone’ will showcase the latest trends, designs, and sustainable practices in the Indian fashion industry. Visitors can expect to see designer collections, brand showcases, and informative workshops led by industry experts.
Sustainability at the forefront
As the world becomes increasingly conscious of environmental impact, Bharat Tex 2025 is committed to promoting sustainable textile practices. From eco-friendly materials to ethical production methods, the event will highlight the latest innovations in sustainable fashion.
A global marketplace
Beyond fashion, Bharat Tex 2025 offers a comprehensive platform for the entire textile value chain. With over 5,000 exhibitors and 6,000+ international buyers, the event is a prime destination for sourcing textiles, machinery, and accessories.
Key highlights:
Global Trade Fair: Explore the latest products and technologies from around the world.
Textiles Conference: Gain insights from industry leaders on emerging trends and challenges.
Fashion Zone: Discover the latest in Indian fashion design and sustainability.
High Street Retail Zone: Connect with fashion retailers and explore opportunities in India's growing market.
B2B and G2G Meetings: Network with potential partners and clients.
Bharat Tex 2025 is more than just a trade show; it's a celebration of the Indian textile industry's rich heritage and bright future. With its focus on fashion, sustainability, and innovation, the event is set to become a must-attend for anyone involved in the textile and fashion sectors.
The second edition of Bharat Tex 2025 gears up to be a game-changer in the textile world. Organized by a consortium of Textile Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) and supported by the Ministry of Textiles (MoT), this mega event to be held between Feb 12-15, 2025 promises an unparalleled experience spanning the entire textile value chain, starting from fibre till the fashion sector.
Building on the success of the 2024 edition, Bharat Tex 2025 is meticulously planned and promises to be well ahead of schedule. This year's focus is on resilient global value chains and sustainable textile practices, reflecting the industry's evolving needs. Organizers anticipate a massive turnout, with over 5,000 exhibitors, 6,000+ international buyers from over 110 countries, and a staggering 120,000 visitors expected to grace the event.
A ‘Feature-Rich’experience awaits
Bharat Tex 2025 goes beyond a simple trade show. It's designed to be a comprehensive platform that fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing. Expect a plethora of activities, including a global trade fair, a dedicated textiles conference, informative seminars, CEO roundtable discussions, and valuable B2B and G2G meetings.
Witness strategic investment announcements, exciting product launches, and the formation of collaborative partnerships. Live demonstrations will showcase the latest advancements in textile technology, while cultural performances add a vibrant touch to the event.
Fashion takes the centrestage
Fashion enthusiasts are in for a treat. A dedicated Fashion Zone will feature designer and brand showcases, along with sustainability workshops and expert talks on industry challenges and trends. Visitors will be able to discover opportunities in India's thriving fashion retail sector at the dedicated "High Street" retail zone.
In the ever-evolving world of fashion, one trend is dominating the global landscape: the undeniable preference for casualwear. From the bustling streets of New York to the vibrant markets of Mumbai, people everywhere are embracing comfort and versatility in their everyday attire. This trend is not merely a passing fad but a fundamental change in how consumers express their style, with 'comfort' now a key consideration alongside aesthetics.
Trend forecasting, a casual future
Leading trend forecasting agencies unanimously predict the continued dominance of casualwear in the coming years. WGSN, a renowned fashion authority, points to the "casualization" of fashion, driven by factors such as the rise of remote work, the desire for sustainability, and a growing emphasis on self-expression.
The Future Laboratory further highlights the blurring of lines between formal and casual wear, with a growing demand for "hybrid" garments that can be dressed up or down. This trend reflects the evolving needs of the modern consumer, who seeks both comfort and style in their clothing choices. Fashion Snoops echoes this sentiment, foreseeing a continued focus on "cozycore" and "comfort dressing," with an emphasis on versatility and functionality.
Consumer trends driving the casualwear revolution
The casualwear boom can be attributed to several interconnected factors:
Remote work and hybrid lifestyles: The shift towards remote work has revolutionized wardrobes worldwide. Traditional work wear has taken a backseat, paving the way for comfortable yet presentable clothing options.
Emphasis on wellness: The pandemic has underscored the importance of physical and mental well-being. Consumers are gravitating towards clothing that supports an active and mindful lifestyle. Digital connectivity: The ubiquity of social media and video calls has increased the focus on personal appearance, even in casual settings. This has fueled the demand for stylish and versatile casualwear options.
Sustainability concerns: The growing awareness of the fashion industry's environmental impact has prompted many consumers to opt for durable, timeless pieces that transcend fleeting trends.
Emerging regional patterns
The US market is a major driver of the casualwear trend, with athleisure brands like Nike and Lululemon experiencing significant growth. American consumers are increasingly embracing a 'dressed-down' aesthetic, opting for comfortable yet stylish clothing that reflects their active lifestyles. European consumers too are also adopting casualwear, with Scandinavian minimalism and French nonchalance serving as inspiration. Sustainable and ethically produced clothing is gaining traction, particularly among younger generations.
In Asia, China, the casualwear market is booming, driven by a growing middle class with increased disposable income. Domestic brands are thriving, offering affordable and trendy casualwear that caters to the preferences of Chinese consumers. The Indian market is experiencing a similar shift towards casualwear, fueled by a growing youth population and the influence of global fashion trends. Traditional Indian clothing is also being reinterpreted in a more casual and contemporary context.
The global preference for casualwear highlights a fundamental shift in consumer behavior and fashion culture. This trend has got a boost from a desire for comfort, versatility, and sustainability, as well as a growing emphasis on self-expression. With forecasting agencies predicting continued growth of this trend, casualwear is poised to shape the future of fashion for years to come.
Asahi Kasei's premium stretch fiber, ROICA, is redefining performance and sustainability in the modern wardrobe. Recognized for its high-tech performance, ROICA combines quality, comfort, and responsible production, making it a key ingredient in a wide range of apparel, from sportswear to intimate wear. With the upcoming Interfiliere Paris, ROICA is set to showcase its partnership with leading companies in the textile industry, focusing on the FW 2025-26 season.
ROICA and its core partners: A focus on intimate wear
At Interfiliere Paris, ROICA will spotlight its collaborations with Iluna Group, Innova Fabrics, and Lauma Elastic, emphasizing their contributions to the intimate wear sector. These partnerships leverage ROICA's unique properties to enhance the performance and sustainability of their fabrics, aligning with the evolving demands of contemporary consumers.
Brugnoli, an Italian company specializing in circular knit fabrics, has been at the forefront of innovation for 70 years. Their product line includes fabrics that blend recycled polyamide with ROICA EF, resulting in lightweight and durable options suitable for underwear and swimwear. Among their innovations is the AMNI V550 Explosive fabric, crafted from biodegradable polyamide and ROICA V550. This bi-stretch material offers excellent muscle support, comfort, and UV protection, making it an ideal choice for activewear.
Cifra, renowned for its seamless garment manufacturing, utilizes ROICA V550 in its products to enhance fit and comfort while supporting sustainability. Their advanced warp knitting technology allows for the creation of intricate designs that cater to active lifestyles, ensuring that their garments not only perform well but also have a reduced environmental impact.
German lace manufacturer Dresdner Spitzen is known for its exquisite textiles, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern sustainability practices. The company’s latest collection, featuring ROICA V550, includes two standout articles: a stretchy elastic lace galloon and its matching allover design, both offering medium stretch and durability. These products are part of Dresdner Spitzen's commitment to sustainability, with certifications like GRS and STeP by Oeko-Tex guiding their production processes.
Innovative textiles for a sustainable future ROICA's
partnerships extend beyond the intimate wear sector, with companies like Iluna Group, Innova Fabrics, and Lauma Elastic leading the charge in sustainable textile innovation.
Iluna Group is celebrated for its expertise in creating fine fabrics for lingerie, blending craftsmanship with innovation. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of eco-friendly materials and responsible production practices, positioning them as a leader in the intimate fabrics sector.
Innova Fabrics stands out for its ability to merge textile tradition with cutting-edge technology. Their innovative products, such as the I Love RF and Paris Special V550, are designed to minimize environmental impact, using materials like Sensil Biocare polyamide and Tencel combined with ROICA V550.
Lauma Elastic, a leader in textile and medical materials, showcases its commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility with products like fabric 323309. This fabric, made from Tencel and ROICA V550, is tailored for sports and yoga leggings, offering a combination of softness, durability, and sustainability.
Maglificio Ripa and Penn Italia: Leading the way in sustainable knits
Maglificio Ripa and Penn Italia, both renowned for their high-quality fabrics, are at the forefront of integrating sustainability into their production processes. Maglificio Ripa’s Eco 203AX Deep and Eco Latino S fabrics, made with Tencel and recycled yarns, are examples of how the company combines innovation with environmental consciousness. Penn Italia, known for its research and development, offers fabrics that incorporate post-consumer recycled polyamide and natural fibers, emphasizing eco-sustainability without compromising on quality.
Tessitura Colombo Antonio: Merging tradition with innovation
Tessitura Colombo Antonio, an Italian company specializing in high-quality fabrics, continues to innovate with products like JL7486-23, a refined elastic jacquard lace made with ROICA V550. This lace exemplifies the company’s ability to blend aesthetic appeal with functionality and environmental sustainability, making it ideal for both intimate and sportswear.
ROICA by Asahi Kasei continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the textile industry. By partnering with some of the most innovative companies in the sector, ROICA is not only enhancing the performance and sustainability of modern apparel but also setting new standards for responsible production. The upcoming Interfiliere Paris event will be a key platform for showcasing these advancements, offering a glimpse into the future of high-performance, eco-conscious fashion.
Archroma, Kipaş Denim, and Jeanologia have teamed up to revolutionize denim production with the introduction of the Contra Denim concept. This innovative approach promises stunning, long-lasting distressed effects while significantly reducing environmental impact.
Contra Denim leverages Archroma's Denim Halo technology, which integrates Dirsol RD pre-treatment and advanced dyeing processes. This results in easy-wash, laser-friendly denim that minimizes water and energy use, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and improves garment durability.
Jeanologia's laser marking technology enhances Contra Denim's vintage look, eliminating the need for harmful manual scraping and potassium permanganate sprays. This collaboration ensures that denim production is cleaner, safer, and more sustainable.
Kipaş Denim's ContraBlack collection, the first in the Contra line, achieved an Environmental Impact Measurement (EIM) score of 11, a dramatic improvement over the industry standard of 67, highlighting its low environmental footprint.
This partnership exemplifies how innovation and sustainability can coexist, enabling denim brands to deliver high-quality designs without compromising environmental goals.
Dondup, the iconic Italian designer denim brand, has joined forces with Bluesign, becoming the first major European denim company to enter the Bluesign System Partner network. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in Dondup’s commitment to sustainability, responsible production, and environmental leadership within the fashion industry.
Bluesign is renowned for its comprehensive approach to sustainable chemistry, focusing on environmental improvements, worker safety, and resource efficiency. As part of this partnership, Dondup joins Bluesign’s Denim Initiative, a global effort launched in March 2023 to revolutionize denim production. This initiative brings together leading denim brands and suppliers like Everlane, Reformation, Pure Denim, and ISKO, all dedicated to clean chemistry and sustainable practices.
Matteo Anchisi, CEO of Dondup, highlights the brand’s strong commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. By partnering with Bluesign, Dondup is advancing its mission to create denim that is not only stylish but also environmentally friendly and socially responsible. This collaboration positions Dondup as a leader in the fashion industry, setting new standards for transparency and accountability.
This partnership is expected to create a ripple effect throughout the fashion industry, inspiring suppliers, manufacturers, and raw material providers to adopt similar environmental and social standards. As Dondup implements Bluesign’s clean chemistry practices across its supply chain, the broader industry is likely to follow, driving significant advancements in sustainability.
Dondup’s collaboration with Bluesign positions the brand as a leader in the global movement towards sustainable fashion.
