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On July 13, the Chennai campus of National Institute of Fashion Technology organised a runway show to promote waste management and celebrate the city's conservancy workers. Titled 'Shine Beyond Streets,' the event aimed to raise awareness about sustainable practices and the importance of recycling textile waste.
The fashion show featured student designs that reimagined utilitarian and workwear fashion, incorporating elements like high-visibility saree belts and embellished tools. Some of its highlights included capes, helmets, and masks combined with functional attire.
The runway was also graced by conservancy workers who modeled ethnic and occasion wear at Express Avenue Mall.
The show was organised in collaboration with private conservancy agency UrbaserSumeet. NIFT Chennai used the platform to encourage the public to donate unwanted clothing or dispose of it separately from general waste. Highlighting the positive impact of such actions on waste management efforts, MahmoodSait, CEO, UrbaserSumeet, urged for collective participation in such sustainable practices.
An innovative textile solutions provider CM Tessuti and Japanese technology company, 1st Corporation jointly launched their latest innovation, 1st Platinumwool at the latest edition of Milano Unica.
Made in Japan and certified by the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS), this fiber boasts an extraordinary fineness of 14.5 microns, enhancing wool’s natural properties.
IstPlatinumwool retains all the benefits of traditional wool while significantly enhancing them. It is distinguished by superior luster, exceptional softness, high pilling resistance, and enhanced tactile qualities. The materials made from IstPlatinumwool offer exceptional crease resistance, superior odor neutralisation, and a fresh touch, making it suitable for various applications, including knitwear, shirts, and elegant outerwear.
Within this partnership, CM Tessuti handles product development, production of the jersey collection, and distribution of both fabric collections in Europe, the UK, and the US.
Marco and Christian Bozzonetti Rivera, Owners, CM Tessuti, note, the development aims to create a unique synergy that combines Japanese precision with Italian creativity.
Supported by Riccardo Rami Studio, the development of IstPlatinumwool collections was certified by Woolmark for quality. At its best in all variations, this material offers an incredibly soft hand and superior stretch recovery in knits. In jersey fabrics, it achieves unprecedented levels of softness and luster. In shuttle fabrics, it reveals unprecedented versatility, becoming ultra-compact and ideal for water-resistant outerwear that embodies quiet luxury, adds Rami.
To meet the market’s evolving demands, Page Industries has embarked on a series of strategic expansion and investment projects. These projects aim to enhance capacity, efficiency, and sustainability across the company’s operations.
The largest amongst these projects, the Odisha Project is expected to complete by FY’25-end. Spanning 28.5 acre with a built-up area of 6.5 lakh sqft, the project includes development of facilities for Central Stores, Cut-to-Pack, and Elastics & Socks manufacturing. Supporting the company’s vertical growth, this initiative emphasises on incorporating best-in-class manufacturing processes and aiming for energy-efficient IGBC certification, underscoring Page Industries’ commitment to sustainability and excellence.
Page Industries is currently also involved in the expansion of its premium vertical at KR Pete with plans for a new facility spanning 250,000 sq ft. Designed to support both sew-to-pack and elastic manufacturing operations, this project is structured in two phases: the first phase will focus on sew-to-pack operations, targeted for completion by Q1 of FY’26, while the second phase will enhance elastic manufacturing capabilities, expected to be operational by FY’27.
Meanwhile, the company has completed the expansion of its socks manufacturing facility by adding 215 new knitting machines, taking the facility’s total capacity to 576, making it one of the largest socks production facilities in India. This expansion significantly enhances the brand’s aggressive growth strategy in this segment.
The company has also expanded its tape dyeing unit in Hassan to 35,000 sq ft. The unit is scheduled to commence operation by Q1 of FY’25. The enhanced capacity will boost the sampling and development potential of women’s elastic supply. Additionally, the ‘Cup Moulding’ and ‘Hook n Eye Forming’ projects have been completed and are ready for operation, aiming to enhance bra-making capabilities.
Another project, Hook n Eye metal dyeing, is underway and may commence operation by Q1 of FY’25.
Page Industries’ extensive expansion and investment initiatives underscore the company’s proactive approach to addressing market demands and positioning itself for future growth. With significant projects across various operational areas, the company is set to enhance its capacity, efficiency, and sustainability, ensuring it remains a key player in the industry.
Textile exporters in Pakistan are protesting against the latest federal budget as it imposes a 29 per cent tax on their profits, thus eliminating their previous exemption.
Additionally, the budget also revises the existing 1 per cent tax on revenue, compelling companies that do not turn a profit to still pay this tax.
Historically, Pakistan has faced recurring balance of payments crises, prompting the government to support exporters with tax breaks and substantial subsidies to boost their international competitiveness. However, in this year's budget, the government had to choose between either cutting the benefits for exporters or reducing its own expenditures. It opted for the former.
This decision has sparked heavy criticism not only from the textile industry but also from the broader business community, including sectors that have long advocated for taxing the textile sector. The backlash highlights the contentious nature of the new tax regime.
Stoll, a leading flat knitting machine specialist of the Karl Mayer Group, showcased its latest trend collection, Nocturno, at this year's PittiFilati. Collaborating with yarn manufacturer IafilIndustriaAmbrosianaFilati SpA, Stoll also presented innovations from Stoll Italia. Their digital software, the Create family, was available for demonstrations upon request.
In addition to exhibiting, Stoll co-led the "Training Days" project with three other companies, aiming to enhance professional development for industry operators. This initiative, organized by Stoll Italia, highlighted sustainability—a key future-focused topic in the knitting sector—attracting significant interest, particularly among young professionals.
Jorg Hartmann, Head of Fashion & Technology at Stoll, reported over 200 visitors to their stand, including existing and potential customers. He noted the numerous technical discussions on new developments and upcoming projects, leading to planned follow-up appointments and new business opportunities.
Hartmann emphasized the importance of their presence amid growing competition, with rivals like Shima Seiki and a new Chinese manufacturer showcasing their innovations. He also observed an increasing demand for fine gauge patterns, with Stoll's E20 fine knitting machine receiving notable attention.
Stoll's successful participation at PittiFilati not only strengthened customer relationships but also provided valuable insights into market trends and customer needs.
Monforts, a leading specialist in finishing machinery, is gearing up for the Febratex textile machinery exhibition in Blumenau, Brazil, from August 20-23. They’ll be showcasing their technology alongside their new regional partner, Uniferro. This partnership follows the retirement of Herbert Erdmann, who dedicated over 30 years to advancing Monforts' presence in the region.
Uniferro, with over 50 years of experience and offices in Sao Paulo and Ceara, has a strong reputation in the textile industry. Their commitment to high-quality brands makes them an ideal partner for Monforts. Fabrice Meyer, Uniferro's owner, emphasizes their focus on delivering top-notch technology, highlighting the benefits of Monforts' Montexstenters and Thermex dyeing ranges, known for their production efficiency and energy savings.
At Febratex, Monforts will unveil the coaTTex coating unit, designed for air knife and knife-over-roller applications. This versatile unit integrates with existing systems or new Montexstenter systems, enabling various fabric coatings for waterproofing, protection, and breathability.
Brazil’s textile sector, especially denim, thrives with Monforts’ Thermexhotflue dyeing systems. The Econtrol process, used for dyeing cotton and denim, offers quick and efficient results. Monforts also promotes energy-saving solutions like the Universal Energy Tower and ECO Booster, crucial for reducing production costs and environmental impact.
Monforts and Uniferro are excited to connect with attendees at Febratex, Hall 5, Stand 27.
Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, Inc. has successfully completed phase one of its production facility expansion, marking a significant milestone in the company's growth. The newly finished space, completed on budget and on time, is now prepared to support the upcoming third production wave starting this month.
This expansion is particularly crucial as it allows Kraig Labs to maintain silk production during the rainy season, a time when silk yields typically drop. The new facility enhances their ability to process, dry, and store fresh mulberry, ensuring uninterrupted spider silk production.
Additionally, Kraig Labs is undertaking a major project to build a new, larger silkworm egg hatchery. This facility is designed to meet the company’s production demands for the next 12-18 months and is expected to be operational before the end of the rainy season.
Kim Thompson, Founder and CEO, emphasized that the investments in expanding production capacity are crucial to Kraig Biocraft's strategic growth plan. These enhancements will allow the company to accelerate its efforts and deliver cost-effective, eco-friendly spider silk to global markets.
Pure London x JATC, the UK's leading fashion trade event, opened its doors to a vibrant atmosphere at Olympia London. The event showcased the latest Spring/Summer 2025 collections for retailers from across the globe.
Buyers impressed by breadth of offerings
Buyers, representing independents, department stores, and brands like Her Dandy Wolf, Renes Fashion, and Pamela Shiffer, were impressed by the diverse range of collections available under one roof. Exhibitors were equally enthusiastic, with returning brands like Sugarhill Brighton showcasing their signature laid-back, Brighton style with punchy prints and fresh dress shapes.
The event boasted a strong international presence. Lithuanian linenwear brand LueL, exhibiting for the 6th season, reported opening their first account in Germany. The show provided valuable opportunities for brands to expand their reach and connect with new buyers.
Expert insights guide buyers
The event kicked off with a thought-provoking seminar by Georgia Charalambous, Creative Consultant at Trendhub by BDA London. Her session, "SS25 Key Trends," unveiled the key trends for the upcoming season, guiding purchasing decisions for attendees. The seminar identified four key trends: Womanhood, Cultivate, Collective, and Illusory.
Womanhood embraces a rich palette of deep burgundies, ochres, and zephyr tones, with pops of color. Think slinky poly, plisse fabrics, and halter necklines for a confident and feminine look.
Cultivate draws inspiration from nature, featuring earth tones and greens with light blues for a sense of freshness. Materials in this trend create effortless silhouettes with a sophisticated feel.
Collective offers a refined hybrid dressing with an organic touch. The palette features warm mocha and espresso tones balanced with dusty blues and bright whites.
Illusory takes inspiration from augmented reality, featuring prints with delicate stripes and metallic appliques. Acidic brights like yellows and blues contrast with lilac and dusty purples, creating a story-driven color palette.
Styling tips for year-round versatility
Celebrity stylist Ellis Ranson hosted a session titled "Seasonless Style: Helping Customers Reimagine Occasionwear All Year Round." The discussion focused on maximizing the versatility of wardrobe staples. Ranson advised attendees to consider different ways garments can be worn for various occasions.
The Pure London x JATC Catwalk drew enthusiastic crowds. The show opened with designs from Graduate Fashion Foundation alumni, highlighting new talent. This was followed by trend-driven scenes curated by Trendhub by BDA London featuring signature pieces from various brands.
Awards celebrate industry excellence
The newly launched Pure London x JATC Awards recognized brands and designers across various categories, including Best in Womenswear, Best in New to Show, and Best Sustainable Brand. The judging panel included industry veterans like Pamela Shiffer, ThakaneBazill, and Anton Dell.
Celebrating innovation and resilience
Gloria Sandrucci, Pure London Event Director, expressed her delight in celebrating the achievements of the fashion industry. She emphasized the event's focus on creativity, passion, and resilience. Juls Dawson, JATC Creative Director, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of acknowledging industry visionaries who continue to shape the future of fashion.
Pure London x JATC successfully kicked off the SS25 season, providing a platform for brands, designers, and buyers to connect, discover trends, and celebrate the vibrant world of fashion.
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A recent Stanford University study ‘How the Apparel Industry Could Refashion Itself with Sustainability in Mind’ highlights the need for the apparel industry to embrace sustainability. The research points to the rise of fast fashion – cheap, trendy clothing with a short lifespan – as a major culprit behind the industry's growing environmental impact, particularly textile waste.
Fast fashion's environmental toll
The study emphasizes that current practices are unsustainable. The mass production of low-quality garments leads to a surge in textile waste, which ends up in landfills. This has significant environmental consequences.
The researchers propose alternative models that prioritize sustainability without sacrificing profitability. One solution is for companies to establish garment collection and buyback programs. These programs, coupled with secondhand stores, can extend the life cycle of clothing and reduce demand for new items. . “While some firms have taken positive steps, the apparel sector overall shows no signs of becoming more sustainable," says Barchi Gillai, Associate Director of the Value Chain Innovation Initiative (VCII) at Stanford and co-author of the paper.
Closing the loop with textile-to-textile recycling
Circularity refers to a closed-loop system where used textiles are recycled back into new clothing, minimizing waste and resource consumption. The study highlights the importance of textile-to-textile recycling. This closed-loop system would not only divert textile waste from landfills but also lessen the environmental impact associated with virgin resource extraction and garment production.
Rethinking production and consumption
The study underscores the need for a multifaceted approach. Encouraging companies to innovate with sustainable materials like recycled fabrics and biosynthetics is crucial. Additionally, a shift in consumer behavior – prioritizing quality over quantity and embracing pre-owned clothing – is essential for long-term sustainability. Also, responsible disposal through garment donation is highlighted as a key step.
Sustainable future for fashion
"The responsibility to make the apparel industry more sustainable falls on all of us," says Gillai. "This white paper offers a roadmap for companies to navigate this crucial shift." Manufacturers need to embrace sustainable practices throughout the supply chain, while consumers must become more conscious of their clothing choices and disposal habits.
The Stanford research offers a roadmap for the apparel industry's path towards a more sustainable future. By adopting these recommendations, the industry can minimize its environmental footprint while catering to the growing consumer demand for eco-conscious fashion.
The 5th TAG meeting, attended by prominent government officials and industry leaders including Minister for Textiles Giriraj Singh, took place today, focusing on the textile industry's growth and challenges. The meeting aimed to achieve the total textile trade target of $350 billion by 2030.
Key issues discussed included:
Raw material shortage: The industry faces a severe shortage of PTA, a basic raw material. The government acknowledged the issue and will address the price difference and shortage.
Illegal imports: The industry requested restrictions on illegal knitted fabric imports from China. The Textile Minister agreed to consider the proposal. Re-export policy: The industry sought an extension of re-export days from 180 to 540 for imports under advance licenses.
Custom duty protection: The industry requested protection for value-added products to boost domestic production.
Pending state TUF dues: The Maharashtra State Textile Minister was urged to release long-pending dues.
The meeting was marked by open and interactive discussions, with all stakeholders sharing their viewpoints. The government officials assured support to address the industry's concerns and achieve the targeted growth.
