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  • Denim News Snippets – Week 46

    Denim News Snippets – Week 46

    Continuing our weekly news snippets, here are some interesting ones for Week 46

    ABERCROMBIE & FRITCH’S DOMESTIC SALES FULED REVENUE GROWTH IN Q3

    ABERCROMBIE & FRITCH

    Abercrombie & Fitch Co. announced third-quarter net sales of $905.2 million on Tuesday, up 10% from $819.7 million the year before, boosted by a 17 percent rise in the United States, the company’s largest market. The company’s net sales in the United States for the third quarter ended October 30, 2021, were $654.9 million, up from $557.8 million the previous year. Abercrombie & Fitch Co.’s overall Q3 net sales grew 5% compared to the pre-Covid-19 third quarter of 2019 when revenues were $863.5 million. Digital sales for the quarter were $413 million, up 8% year over year and 55% when compared to the same time two years ago. The company’s quarterly net income was $47.2 million, or $0.77 per diluted share, compared to $42.3 million, or $0.66 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2020. Abercrombie & Fitch generated net profits of $197.5 million, or $3.10 per diluted share, for the first half of the year, compared to a loss of $196.4 million, or $3.14 per diluted share, for the same period the previous year. Net sales for the nine-month were $2.55 billion, up 27% from $2.00 billion the previous year.  
    “We were very pleased with our third-quarter results,” said Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Fran Horowitz in a release.

    M&S BOOSTS BRAND OWNERSHIP, ACQUIRES SHARE ON NOBODY’S CHILD

    M&S

    M&S is all set to increase its market offering, and its most recent step is to purchase a 25% stake in Nobody’s Child for an undisclosed figure. The retail giant, which launched the label to its offering last year, appears to be satisfied with the outcomes of the collaboration, stating that “after a great first year of working together,” it is “developing its engagement” with the company. The most popular product category with M&S consumers has been the selection of midi dresses, with dresses accounting for 12% of Nobody’s Child purchases placed on M&S.com to far. The store stated that the “eco-conscious, affordable” brand will continue to operate autonomously, “but with the ability to build the business using M&S’s investment and infrastructure.” M&S will profit greatly from Nobody’s Child’s agility, including the brand’s focus on near-sourcing supply, which has previously been highlighted as a growth prospect, in addition to being an exciting investment opportunity.“Nobody’s Child was the first brand to launch on M&S.com and has proved incredibly popular with new and existing M&S customers, said Richard Price, MD, M&S Clothing and Home.

    CLOTHING MANUFACTURERS IN JAPAN OPT TO CEASE ZINJIANG COTTON

    JAPAN

    Garment manufacturers all around the world have been vocal in their opposition to cotton grown in China’s western Xinjiang region, and now Japanese apparel manufacturers are following suit. According to Nikkei Asia, a renowned Japanese financial daily, Japanese clothing makers, including Sanyo Shokai and TSI Holdings, have chosen to discontinue using Xinjiang cotton, following in the footsteps of Mizuno, a major sports equipment and sportswear firm, and others. Sanyo Shokai, which distributes garments under the Paul Stuart, Epoca, and Mackintosh Philosophy labels, will discontinue the use of Xinjiang cotton in the spring/summer of 2022. Shinji Oe, President of Sanyo Shokai, stated that the corporation has acquired information on human rights violations in Xinjiang but has been unable to verify the facts. It’s also evident that Fast Retailing, the company behind the Uniqlo casual clothesline, has set up a mechanism to monitor the manufacturing of the commodities it uses, including cotton, for suspected human rights breaches and other ethical issues. To ensure ethical manufacturing, Tadashi Yanai, the company’s chairman, and CEO, has committed to “achieve high levels of traceability” across the supply chain, down to cotton farmers.

    GOOGLE UNVEILS THE GLOBAL FIBRE IMPACT EXPLORER (GFIE) TOOL FOR FASHION SUPPLY CHAIN

    GOOGLE

    Google is collaborating with Stella McCartney, The Textile Exchange, and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) on the Global Fibre Impact Explorer (GFIE) tool to assist the fashion industry to become more sustainable. The tool is designed to assist companies in understanding the environmental challenges associated with acquiring the raw materials they use, allowing them to make more environmentally conscious decisions. Google collaborated with McCartney “to understand the industry’s demands and to test the platform,” and a few other prominent brands and stores, like Adidas, Allbirds, H&M Group, and VF Corporation, were also involved in the pre-release process. It is now encouraging people to express their interest in utilizing it. The initial version of the GFIE is built on Google Earth Engine and uses Google Cloud computing to analyze the environmental risk of various fibres in connection to aspects like air pollution, biodiversity, climate, and greenhouse gas emissions, forestry, and water consumption. The tool should make it simple to “detect environmental concerns across over 20 fibre types — including natural, cellulosic, and synthetic materials.” It will also make suggestions for targeted and geographically relevant risk mitigation measures to brands.

    MADEWELL STIMULATES HOLIDAY ENGAGEMENT WITH ITS INSIDER LOYALTY PROGRAM UPDATE

    MADEWELL

    Madewell Insider, the J.Crew Group-owned brand’s loyalty program, started in the United States in 2016 and was broadened in 2020 to include more rewards for members. Members enjoyed early access to Madewell’s Black Friday sale, as well as a special gift with purchase on purchases over $125, free monogramming, and access to in-store stylists for gift assistance, all leading up to the Christmas shopping season. Members are rewarded on a sliding scale under the new scheme, with Madewell Insider status decided by how much a consumer spends each calendar year. Members receive a $10 incentive for every 250 points they acquire. On certain days throughout the year, Madewell Star and Icon members (those who spend $500 and $1,000, respectively) get triple points. “This holiday season our goal is to ‘Make it Magic’ for our customers and get them excited to shop. We want to cement for our customers that Madewell is the top destination for an incredible shopping experience and there’s no better time of year to show what you’re made of than the holiday season.” said Derek Yarbrough, Madewell chief marketing officer.

  • Denim News Snippets – Week 44

    Denim News Snippets – Week 44

    Continuing our weekly news snippets, here are some interesting ones for Week 44

    WITH THE ‘SECOND HAND’ PROJECT, DIESEL ENTERS THE RESALE MARKET

    diesel

    Diesel is releasing a “carefully curated edit” of vintage denim that has been repaired and renewed in select Italian storefronts and online all over Europe. The ‘Second Hand’ project intends to provide a “unique and inspirational approach to take actions towards circularity,” according to Diesel, by allowing customers to continue Diesel merchandise in use for forthcoming years.

    During the summer, the process began with denim buyback programmes in select Italian stores, and Diesel gathered 900 pairs of jeans to give them a second chance at life. The reselling project will also serve to decrease a pair of denim jeans’ carbon and water footprint. Furthermore, all clothing is sprayed with Viral off and Odor Crunch, a Polygiene-developed combination treatment with anti-microbial and odour-resistant qualities that allows for less frequent laundry throughout consumer usage. Diesel ‘Second Hand’ merchandise may be purchased at three selected stores in Italy: Milan, Florence, and Rome, as well as online at diesel.com from anywhere in Europe. Diesel also stated that its buyback denim program will keep going in Italy.

    AUSTRIAN TEXTILE BRAND LENZING, RETURNS TO PROFITABILITY IN THE THIRD QUARTER

    lenzing

    In the third quarter (Q3) of FY21, which concluded on September 30, 2021, Lenzing Group, an Austrian pioneer in sustainable specialty fibers, reported a revenue increase of 32.9% to €1.59 billion, up from €1.2 billion in the same time of 2020. The nine-month net profit increased to €113.4 million (Q3 FY20: loss €23.3 million). According to the company, the success during the reporting period was attributed to greater sales volume as well as higher viscose pricing, which reached more than RMB 15,000 (renminbi) in May due to considerably stronger demand for fibers, particularly in Asia. EBITDA (profits before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) more than quadrupled to €297.6 million (€138.5 million) in the third quarter.

    Lenzing expects EBITDA to reach €360 million in FY21, according to its forecast. Furthermore, the need for sustainably generated fibers for the textile and garment sectors, as well as the hygiene and medical industries, is expected to continue to expand. Because of a variety of legislative actions, this tendency is expected to continue unabated beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.

    KONTOOR BRANDS ANNOUNCES RESULTS FOR THE THIRD QUARTER OF 2021

    Kontoor

    Kontoor Brands Inc., which owns the Wrangler and Lee brands, boosted its fiscal 2021 estimation this week by releasing third-quarter financial results. In 2020, revenue is predicted to grow by a high-teens percentage to $2.47 billion to $2.48 billion, up from a mid-teens percentage in the previous projection. In comparison to the 41.2% achieved in 2020, the adjusted gross margin is now expected to grow to the high end of the earlier projection range of 44.5% to 45% of revenue. Revenue climbed 12% to $652 million in the third quarter ended Oct. 2, principally due to growth in digital, especially own.com and digital wholesale, as well as better performance throughout the U.S. wholesale business and good trends in overseas markets. Net income increased 4.3% to $63.41 million in the third quarter, up from $60.79 million the previous year.

    EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) was $94.23 million. Adjusted EBITDA increased 1% to $111 million. “Kontoor is uniquely positioned to win in the marketplace, as evidenced by another quarter of broad-based strength across segments, channels, and regions. And we expect our momentum to continue building, as reflected in our raised fiscal year guidance. Our strategic investments in key TSR-bolstering enablers such as digital, demand creation, and people should fuel our accelerating fundamentals,” said Scott Baxter, President, and Chief Executive Officer, Kontoor Brands.

    VICUNHA USES POLYGIENE’S STAY FRESH TECH FOR ITS FABRICS

    Vicunha

    Polygiene, a Swedish chemical business, is gaining traction in the denim industry. Vicunha, a Brazilian denim mill, is the latest to incorporate its Stay Fresh technologies into fabrics, a suite of solutions designed to keep garments clean and odour-free between washes. Polygiene’s BioStatic and OdorCrunch technologies are used to treat the mill’s 2021-2022 collection.  Polygiene Biostatic is an antimicrobial technique that inhibits the growth of odour-causing bacteria, hence preventing the stink from spreading.

    Polygiene OdorCrunch eliminates odours from the surroundings such as kitchen fumes, cigarette smoke, or body odour by encapsulating and splitting the molecules, so eliminating the irritating aroma from the clothing. Although the technologies have been embraced by companies large and small, such as Diesel and Hiut Denim, Polygiene states that Vicunha is the first Latin American mill to apply them. Vicunha’s products are offered in denim and denim colour bases. “The partnership with Vicunha is a milestone for us in the denim segment and a breakthrough in the Brazilian market in general,” said Ulrika Björk, Polygiene CEO. “We are very proud to start working with this global leader and see it as a long-term cooperation for a more sustainable textile industry, and society.” Products like Polygiene’s are becoming more popular as customers embrace more responsible methods of closet maintenance.

  • Denim News Snippets – Week 43

    Denim News Snippets – Week 43

    Continuing our weekly news snippets, here are some interesting ones for Week 43

    Pangaia launches a climate-positive space inside the Galeries Lafayette in Paris

    In collaboration with Galeries Lafayette, ethical apparel brand Pangaia has unveiled its first physical shopping experience in France. The label has created an interactive environment inspired by its dedication to ‘high tech naturalism’ for the temporary show at the premium department store in Paris. The label collaborated with Galeries Lafayette to develop a climate-friendly ambiance, minimizing the space’s carbon footprint.

    The circular disciplined store, designed as a translation of Pangaia’s story, aims to inform visitors of the brand’s material advancements. A peppermint garden greets visitors as they approach the venue, referencing the label’s unique Pprmint technology, which uses natural peppermint oil in fabric fiber to keep apparel fresher for longer. Other innovations emphasized in the experience include C-fibre, a combination of eucalyptus pulp and seaweed that forms an alternative to cotton, and Flwrdwn, a natural, dried wildflower-based alternative to synthetic and animal down. Pangaia has handpicked a range of merchandise that it feels illustrates its most substantial approach, innovation via science, for part of the store-in-store experience. Furthermore, Pangaia and Galeries Lafayette will give 2% of the pop-net-up’s sales to the Bee The Change initiative. Furthermore, the environmentally friendly display is closely aligned with Galeries Lafayette’s ‘Go For Good’ programme, which is oriented on the availability of ethical fashion.

    As global demand for CmiA cotton surges, more partners join

    Cotton made in Africa (CmiA) has been joined by BRAX from Germany, Jolo Fashion Group from the Netherlands, and Shinsegae International from South Korea. They want to promote sustainable agriculture, safeguard the environment, and enhance the working and living circumstances of small-scale farmers and their families, which number approximately 1 million people. CmiA represents a socially and ecologically responsible foundation for the global textile chain as one of the world’s leading efforts for sustainably grown cotton in Africa. It humanizes the small-scale farmers who are the foundation of the fashion industry.

    CmiA cotton has a much lower ecological impact than the global average, according to the most recent study data. CmiA cotton contributes less to climate change since its greenhouse gas emissions are 13% lower than the global average for cotton agriculture. Small-scale farmers gain from agricultural and business training, which allows them to increase yields and enhance cultivation practices. CmiA actively campaigns for topics such as healthcare, respect for children’s rights, and equal rights for men and women in addition to sustainable cotton production. This has a direct impact on raising awareness of social concerns in village communities. Factory employees at ginneries, which separate cotton seeds from fibers by machine, benefit from better working conditions. The CmiA label allows consumers to identify certain items. According to the release, each purchase signifies a direct investment in improving living circumstances and conserving the environment.

    Arvind’s sales soared by 62% in the second quarter as demand rises

    Arvind Limited, one of India’s leading textile firms that also retails apparel, reported a 62% increase in revenue to 2,115 crores in the second quarter (Q2) of FY22, compared to 1,305 crores in the same time the previous year. Profit for the quarter ending September 30, 2021, increased to 70 crores (Q2 FY21: 1 crore). EBIDTA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) climbed by 74% to 212 crores (122 crores) in the second quarter.

    Fabric shipments rebounded quickly and reached pre-covid levels in the reported quarter, while sarment volumes improved progressively, according to the business. In Q2 FY22, sales from the textile industry increased to 1,711 crores (1,017 crores), with denim volumes hitting 25 million meters and contributing 552 crores (335 crores), and wovens reaching 31 million meters and sales of 604 crores (288 crores).

    Likewise, owing to high demand across all areas – human protection, industrial belts and filters, and composites – sales of advanced materials increased by 60% to 297 crores (186 crores). Arvind Fashion’s forecast for the approaching quarter is that international clients have already pre-ordered for summer 22 and companies continue to show high momentum, while the local market is expected to remain robust following festival spending. Sales are expected to increase by 40% in the third quarter over FY21, and by 4% to 5% sequentially, according to the textile producer.

    H&M unveils an animal-friendly apparel collection that is certified by PETA

    After seeking consent from the animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), the Swedish fast-fashion store H&M will launch an animal-friendly clothing line in November. Flwrdwn, a wildflower-based substitute for animal down, and Vegea, a plant-based alternative for oil-based and animal-derived leathers, are among the fabrics and mechanisms featured in the ‘Co-Exist Story’ collection, which includes womenswear, menswear, and kidswear.

    Dramatic volumes, ’90s-inspired partywear, and utilitarian outerwear are included in the womenswear and menswear collections, which are designed for “a modern city person who wanders between late-night partying and early-morning hikes.” An enormous recycled polyester faux fur coat, a one-shouldered knitted dress with a bold fringed hem in an Econyl mix, and vegan leather trousers with a complementing jacket vest for women are among the collection’s key components. For men, there’s a graffiti-print recycled nylon oversized anorak, puffer shorts, and water-resistant pants. The ‘Co-Exist Story’ collection is the third in H&M’s Innovation Stories series, which started in early 2021 intending to highlight more sustainable products, materials, and designs. The H&M ‘Co-Exist Story’ collection will be available globally on hm.com and in select stores starting November 4th.

  • Denim News Snippets – Week 42

    Denim News Snippets – Week 42

    Continuing our weekly news snippets, here are some interesting ones for Week 42

    Inditex, Amazon, and Patagonia jointly prepared to commit to zero-carbon shipping by 2040

    Inditex

    Inditex, Amazon, and Patagonia have joined the Cargo Owners for Zero-Emission Vessels (coZEV) alliance, committing to achieve carbon-free shipping by 2040. A significant group of companies has declared their ambition to transfer all of their ocean freights to zero-carbon emission boats by 2040, as part of a new cargo owner-led network sponsored by the Aspen Institute. The firms that signed the agreement hope that the announcement would heighten the feeling of urgency around this problem and increase investor confidence in the promise of zero-carbon shipping.

    Inditex, Amazon, Brooks Running, Patagonia, Tchibo, Unilever, Michelin, Frog Bikes, and Ikea signed the ambitious pact. For the first time, the coZEV agreement will allow firms to build zero-carbon marine transportation corridors, signaling the hope that consumer products producers and merchants will collaborate. Furthermore, the signatories have urged policymakers to begin taking steps toward comprehensive decarbonization. The partnership aims to spur measures that reduce the cost of the zero-carbon transition.

    H&M aims to establish a blockchain rental business in Germany

    H&M

    In partnership with the circular fashion organization Lablaco, fast-fashion retailer H&M will debut the new rental service platform Spin at its Berlin-based shop. The rental service, which will be headquartered at the H&M Mitte Garten, will help customers to reserve and pay for a garment in advance, with a deadline to return it to be washed and readied for the next renter. The blockchain-based service is built on the Internet of Things (IoT) technology, which connects several databases via software and sensors.

    Customers’ smartphones can scan IoT care labels on rental clothing, allowing them to follow product travels and contribute memories to the garments by uploading their pictures. Using Spin, H&M and Lablaco want to investigate the possibilities of this rental style in the digitally cyclical fashion business. The facility will be accessible at the store through the end of the year, with a variety of collections available for rent, the first of which consists of 12 separate pieces. Rental periods range from five to three weeks, with rates ranging from five to nine euros per day.

    Intermix releases Intermix for Good Tour to promote denim recycling

    Intermix

    Intermix, a multi-brand apparel shop located in the United States, has announced the launch of its Intermix for Good Tour, a statewide sustainability program that combines denim recycling with community development via giving back. Intermix is collaborating with Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go GreenTM program to gather cotton denim that can be upcycled to produce anything new as part of its goal to build a more sustainable future. Customers who drop in an old pair of jeans will get a 20% discount on a new pair of jeans, which will be recycled via Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go GreenTM campaign.

    Intermix CEO Jyothi Rao stated that the company is committed to incorporating more eco-friendly practices into its operations and is excited to be collaborating with Cotton Incorporated’s Blue Jeans Go GreenTM denim recycling initiative. They’ve always been recognized for having the greatest pair of jeans, and with this initiative, they’re prolonging the life of those jeans and demonstrating that fashion and sustainability can cohabit. As a major part of their Intermix for Good Tour, they will also perform beach and city cleanups with their retail partners that are devoted to the cause, forming a community working to build a sustainable tomorrow.

    Lenzing extends its denim range with the introduction of matte TencelTM lyocell fibers

    Lenzing

    Lenzing Group, Austria’s largest viscose manufacturer, is increasing its sustainable portfolio for the denim sector with the introduction of matte TENCELTM branded lyocell fibers. The new fiber type was created particularly to scatter light and permanently eliminate shine in denim applications, making indigo-dyed denim textiles more flexible. The use of matte TENCEL Lyocell fibers increases denim design possibilities while reducing the environmental impact of the final fabric and garment, combining practicality and beauty.

    The new fiber type retains all of the comfort features of traditional TENCELTM Lyocell fibers while giving dark indigo dye textiles a deep, lusterless look. Lenzing is pleased to announce the launch of the new matte TENCELTM branded lyocell fibers at the Kingpins Digital Show in collaboration with global mill partners Advance Denim (China), Artistic Fabric Mills Pvt. Ltd (Pakistan), Arvind Limited (India), Kipas Denim (Turkey), KG Denim Limited (India), Panther Denim/ Tat Fung, and Textil Santanderina. The new matte TENCEL Lyocell fibers are entirely traceable thanks to this technology, guaranteeing both brands and customers that the raw materials used are obtained ethically.

    Daniel Kulle has stepped down as CEO of Forever 21

    Forever 21

    According to the article, Kulle announced in an email to his contacts this week that he has resigned from his position and would be “taking some time off to figure out my next step.” Kulle began working for Forever 21 in February 2020, while the store was being acquired out of bankruptcy by Authentic Brands Group, Simon Property Group, and Brookfield Property Partners. He was entrusted with rebuilding the business when it went bankrupt as part of his job.

    Before joining Forever 21, the retail veteran worked for H&M for 25 years, where he worked as a strategic consultant and was a member of a steering committee for three new digital start-ups inside the H&M Group. “We appreciate all that Daniel has contributed throughout his time with the brand and wish him the best in his future endeavors,” said Marc Miller, CEO of SPARC.  In September 2019, Forever 21 filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, succumbing to the growing demand for online shopping and shifting design trends. The American apparel business eventually agreed to sell its holdings for $81 million to Authentic Brands Group, Simon Property Group, and Brookfield Property Partners.

  • Bianca Saunders X Isko Denim: 2022 Denim Spring Collection

    Bianca Saunders X Isko Denim: 2022 Denim Spring Collection

    Bianca Saunders X Isko Denim

    Bianca Saunders is a menswear designer who is adept at giving jarring twists to bring different notions of masculinity. She teamed up with the Turkish denim mill ISKO for the second time to create her bomber-style denim jackets and twisted-seam jeans, having previously trialed the material in her autumn/winter 2020 collection. These collaborations by the London-based designer aim to capture “the unconscious style of summer before digital photography.”

    “ISKO is the best denim manufacturer to partner with, mainly because sustainability is so intrinsic to the brand. It was so great to partner with a responsible company.” Says Bianca Saunders.

    WHAT THE COLLECTION HAS TO OFFER

    Bianca Saunders X Isko Denim

    Saunders’ menswear collection, displayed in a variety of old analogue images, illustrates her classic experimental cutting methods and contemporary design.

    Bianca Saunders X Isko Denim

    Her avant-garde techniques exhibit unique sleeve styles, including a jacket with a rounded silhouette and a trench with cut arms. She plays in perspective by using cleverly constructed darts, the pieces are oversized and rounded, but suitably flat when seen from another angle. Sanders detailed the collection’s inspiration in a press release, saying, “I was also thinking of a muscular man whose prints were distorted as if stretched over his body and his arms were rounded and bent.”

    Bianca Saunders X Isko Denim

    The collection’s seven looks were established under sustainable denim manufacturer Isko, involving indigo denim jackets, twisted seam jeans, and a variety of other accessories. Sanko Textile Industries’ denim division is partnering with the R-Two program to impose recycled cotton and recycled polyester certified to denim, for which it has announced “full responsibility.” 

     Earlier, Isko Denim also collaborated with Saunders on her autumn/winter 2020 collection, offering sustainable materials as part of its ongoing campaign of both eco-friendly production and emerging talent.

    “Isko is proud to have collaborated with award-winning British talent Bianca Saunders for the second time on her latest SS22 collection,” said Isko’s marketing and business development manager, Keith O’Brien. He further asserts that the partnership reinforces their dedication to supporting emerging designers who want to integrate denim into their innovative collections.

    Saunders, the most popular ANDAM award winner for 2021, was also chosen as an associate on the 2020 GucciFest project, which will see her official launch of the pre-autumn ’21 collection via its platform. The designer also worked in collaboration with another British menswear brand, Farah, on a selection of zip-up knits and jersey tracksuits, along with a wide assortment of t-shirts that incorporate references to old holiday postcards, for this collection.

     ISKO DENIM R-TWO PROGRAM

     ISKO DENIM R-TWO PROGRAM

    The fabrics in the R-TWO program are composed of a combination of reused and/or recycled materials, which facilitate sourcing efficiency throughout the entire field-to-fabric production process. The initiative’s approach identifies waste avoidance at the epicenter of the program, with innovative and effective solutions for sourcing, reusing, and disposing of all materials used.

    R-TWO PROGRAM

    The reused cotton is obtained from production loss with Content Claim Standard Certification (CCS), and recycled polyester certified to Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) or Global Recycle Standard (GRS), depending on the percentage used. By having these certifications, brands and manufacturers can more effectively communicate the benefits of their sustainable efforts. The denim producer is committed to finding new ways to boost sustainable manufacturing, and it considers that R-TWO will make a significant contribution. 

    R-TWO PROGRAM

    Its existing bestsellers have all been converted to an R-TWO fabric, and the company aims to use the fabric for more than half of its collection. This is expected to significantly reduce the carbon and water footprint of fabric, as well as make it easy for consumers to trace a garment’s sustainable journey step-by-step from the beginning of the supply chain through to the end product they purchase. It is also developing a comprehensive sustainability report to communicate to its customers ISKO’s accomplishments, goals, visions, and policies regarding sustainable and ethical manufacturing.

    R-TWO PROGRAM

    In regards to their collaboration with Bianca Saunders, Keith O’Brien( Marketing and Business Development Manager at ISKO) said that they are proud to support designers like Bianca who are passionate about responsible production and promoting sustainability in the fashion industry.

    ABOUT BIANCA SAUNDERS

    BIANCA SAUNDERS

    Bianca Saunders is a distinct new voice in the menswear arena, specializing in proposing jarring twists to succinct garments, effectively redefining existing notions of masculinity. Saunders addresses the tension between tradition and evolution in designs that reference classic streetwear and avant-garde couture in equal measure, at times within the same piece, drawing from touchstones on both sides of her British and West Indian heritage.

    BIANCA SAUNDERS

  • Denim News Snippets – Week 40

    Denim News Snippets – Week 40

    Continuing our weekly news snippets, here are some interesting ones for Week 40

    Levi Strauss earnings hit record highs as new denim trends boost sales

    Levi Strauss & Co. reported fiscal third-quarter earnings and sales that exceeded analysts’ expectations, as consumer demand increased during the back-to-school season and shoppers stocked up on the latest denim trends. Its stock rose more than 2% in extended trading on the news, after closing the day down more than 5%. Even though many apparel companies have been impacted by global supply chain bottlenecks, Levi has fared well in comparison due to its diverse manufacturing.

    According to the company, Vietnam accounts for less than 4% of its global volume. During the pandemic, production facilities were severely impacted by periodic shutdowns. “Our supply chain is truly a source of competitive advantage,” said CEO Chip Bergh. “We have a lot of agility in moving product around.” For the last 18 months, we’ve been running the company through various scenarios.” Net income increased to $193 million, or 47 cents per share, up from $27 million, or 7 cents per share, the previous year.

    With one-time items excluded, the company earned 48 cents per share. Profits of 37 cents per share were predicted by analysts. Revenue increased 41% year on year to $1.5 billion from $1.06 billion. This came in slightly higher than the $1.48 billion predicted. According to Bergh, Levi’s revenue was reduced by about $10 million due to supply chain issues. Digital transactions increased by 10% year over year and by 76% over two years. They accounted for roughly 20% of Levi’s total sales. The company stated that its earnings increased as a result of Levi selling more items directly to consumers at higher prices.

    British Fashion and Textile Technology awards grants to SMEs for sustainable progression

    The British Fashion and Textile Technology (BFTT) research and development programme have awarded an additional 1.1 million pounds to 13 small-to-medium-sized enterprises that prioritize sustainability, innovation, and social purpose in their business models. This latest injection of funds follows a 1.2 million pound investment in ten of the UK’s leading SMEs in 2020, as well as 500,000 pounds of collaborative research funding across three additional BFTT projects, bringing the total investment to approximately 2.8 million pounds across 35 SMEs, with at least 20 new jobs created.

    Surface finishing processes and natural dyeing, embedded use of traceable raw materials, high-value recycling of fashion and textile industry waste, sensing technologies for healthcare, bio-materials, non-woven textiles, on-shoring of state-of-the-art manufacturing, and novel digital solutions are among the subsectors and research and development areas covered by the new 1.1 million pounds of funding. Dash and Miller and Jessica Garvey Birch (partnership), Grady and Robinson and Phoebe English (partnership), Iinouiio, Keracol, and Bulm are among the companies receiving grants.

    H&M and IKEA Large-Scale Study Demonstrates a Safer Route Forward for Recycled Textiles

    H&M Group and Inter IKEA Group are major firms with ambitious material goals and both have committed to using only 100 % renewable, recycled, or other sustainably sourced materials by 2030. While the aforementioned flurry of innovations may make this appear simple, finding clean and reliable sources of recyclable materials which, as it turns out, is much more difficult and is a critical step in making good on these promises.

    In 2019, the two companies teamed up to address this industry-wide issue, launching a large-scale study on toxic chemicals found in recycled textiles sourced from all over the world joined the effort, to strategically increase knowledge, exchange data, and encouraging chemical transparency across the industry. Adidas, Bestseller, Gap, Kingfisher, and PVH Corp have earlier joined the study as contributors in the fall of 2020. With the size and presence of all involved companies, there is a great opportunity to drive the necessary change. Even though the study is now complete, there is still much work to be done. Following the completion of a two-year collaborative industry study, the two companies will share the findings to better understand the potentials and challenges of recycled textiles in terms of chemical contamination, as well as to influence circular economy legislation.

    Youth Fashion Giant Pacsun will now accept Cryptocurrency

    Pacsun, the multibrand retailer, has announced that it will now accept bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies through blockchain payment provider BitPay, making it one of the first major retailers to do so. Its decision is based on a GoBankingRates report, which stated that the payment method is a major trend among the Gen Z audience. The retailer noted that its significance arises from the digital generation, as well as an increase in celebrity endorsements of cryptocurrency adoption. “The Gen Z audience, our primary consumer, is very tech-oriented, and we dedicated a lot of our efforts towards social media and e-commerce to align with their lifestyles and resonate with them on a more personal level.

    Seeing their increasing desire towards cryptocurrency, it was clear that we needed to adjust and offer BitPay as another payment option, to further instill their confidence in us as one of their go-to retailers that truly listen,” said Michael Relich, co-CEO of Pacsun. Pacsun will accept 11 different cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, and Litecoin, as well as 11 different crypto wallets. It joins luxury brand Phillip Plein in taking tech-forward payments, which was implemented in August by the Swiss company. Other retailers have started selling gift cards as a payment option.

  • Denim News Snippets – Week 39

    Denim News Snippets – Week 39

    Continuing our weekly news snippets, here are some interesting ones for Week 39

    7 For All Mankind launches completely traceable collection

    Denim label 7 For All Mankind has used new technologies to create a line that it claims is entirely traceable from cotton seed to shelf. Traceability The Powered by FibreTrace programme is the most recent addition to 7 For All Mankind’s Sustainable For All Mankind platform. It includes ready-to-wear and denim designs for both men and women, as well as FibreTrace traceability technology and the world’s first third-party, confirmed carbon-positive cotton, Good Earth Cotton. FibreTrace technology is characterized as an unbreakable, luminous pigment that is incorporated in raw fiber. It is a patented mechanism that tracks, assesses, and audits fiber in real-time at every stage of the global textile supply chain.

    Ralph Lauren has joined the Strategic Partner Group of the Global Fashion Agenda

    Global Fashion Agenda, a non-profit organization, has announced that the Ralph Lauren Corporation will join its group of Strategic Partners, to drive the fashion industry into a more sustainable future. Along with several other fashion professionals from throughout the industry, the organization will play an active part in the creation of the Global Fashion Agenda’s thought leadership platform and Fashion CEO Agenda.

    The organization, which is also in charge of the Copenhagen Fashion Summit, acknowledged Ralph Lauren’s current sustainable initiatives, implying that it chose the brand to be a participant of its inner circle. The agenda seeks to inspire companies to include circular design methods into their production, such as incorporating used clothing, resold items, and recycled post-consumer textiles into their supply chain. The agreement, which will take effect in October 2021, will aid the fashion corporation’s Design the Change initiative, which is part of its 2021 Global Citizenship and Sustainability Report.

    WELLTHREAD BY LEVI INTRODUCES PLANT-BASED DYES

    Natural dyes are the newest environmentally friendly materials to be utilized in Levi’s WellThread, the heritage brand’s flagship product that acts as a laboratory for sustainable innovation. The men’s and women’s collections include organic cotton and cottonized hemp materials dyed using Stony Creek Colors’ new line of sustainable, plant-based dye technologies. The company, located in Springfield, Tenn., has developed and tested technology that allows it to sustainably provide the market with indigo plant-based dye, facilitating a shift away from hazardous, synthetic, petroleum-based methods.

    According to Levi’s, the dye used in the collection is the outcome of a multi-year development collaboration with Sarah Bellos, creator of Stony Creek Colors. The result is vivid natural indigo denim made from 100% organic cotton by Levi’s long-time mill partner Cone.

    Gap Inc. has published its 2020 Global Sustainability Report

    Gap Inc. has issued its 2020 Global Sustainability Report, which summarises the business’s initiatives and progresses toward its sustainability goals. The report details the worldwide efforts of the company and each of its brands, including Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, and Athleta. The report contains a corporate study on the development of an inclusive workplace, community participation, and equality programmes, as well as an outline of a variety of long-term efforts undertaken by both brands and the firm as a whole.

    The company has also outlined its commitment to eliminate single-use plastics by 2030, a goal it is well on track to meet with various partnerships in the industry, including as a signatory member of the Fashion Pact, which aims to find alternatives to single-use plastics. By including its  Advancement and Career Enhancement Programme, Gap Inc. has acknowledged its commitment to reaching one million women and girls by 2022.  In addition to helping 804,000 women advance in their careers, the programme provides them with technical training and life skills.

    H&M proposes a dividend as sales profit rises.

    The H&M group’s net sales in local currencies grew by 13% in the first nine months of this year compared to the same time last year. The group’s net sales were 142,154 million Swedish krona when converted into SEK. The H&M group’s net sales in local currencies grew by 14% in the third quarter, while net sales in SEK increased to 55,585 million Swedish krona.

    In the third quarter, online sales grew by 22% in local currencies and 17% in SEK, while retail sales began to rebound as limitations in several regions were relaxed, according to the firm. The quarter’s gross profit grew by 19% to 29,559 million Swedish krona, resulting in a gross margin of 53.2%. After accounting for financial factors, profit climbed by 158 percent to 6,093 million Swedish krona. The board of directors also proposed paying a cash dividend of 6.50 Swedish krona per share in November 2021, based on significantly improved profitability, a strong financial position with financial net cash of 24,874 million Swedish krona, more stable market conditions, and a positive outlook, according to the company.

  • The Circle Book- 2nd Edition

    The Circle Book- 2nd Edition

    Circle Book

    The future of the textile and fashion revolution lies in collaboration and circularity. The ACT TOGETHER alliance between Lenzing , Meidea, and Officina+39 resulted in the creation of THE CIRCLE BOOK, a lookbook and work tool. This book explains how to produce ideas and initiatives connected to responsible circular fashion, to inspire new generations of conscious designers. Transparency is the core of the whole plan, from conceptualization through fibers and textiles to finishing and onto finished clothes. The makers want to pave the way for future generations of conscious designers by setting an example in education. They provide openness of information to contribute to a new creative and sustainable fashion model based on corporate cooperation.

    After expanding the project this year, they are ready to present THE CIRCLE BOOK SECOND EDITION with an even larger set of companies – one that has transparency and circularity in denim design as one of its primary aims.

    CULTURE.IN – THE CAPSULE

    Circle Book

    CULTURE.IN is the title of the capsule: the alliance formed a synergistic partnership of ten firms, which comprises all the supply chain’s members and tracks all of their operations throughout the processes. Each company’s product value is represented in the virtue of its production site, which perceives circularity as a prominent feature.

    They have designed a realistic concept that articulates a connective supply chain, with the possibility to ACT TOGETHER to strengthen the message and to express the values of each firm. The purpose is to engage consumers who are confronting the circularity issue.

    To create their collections and merchandise more versatile, brands can discover a trustworthy, traceable supply chain. To do this, the production’s backstage is documented and presented in photos and videos in a narrative that spans the whole production process, from the very beginning to the final lookbook and campaign. The project is inspired by the philosophy of life.  The brands believe that In the future, our households will be self-sufficient ecosystems/habitats where we may live happily and evolve with the people who live in them. Because of this connectivity, there is less of an impact on the environment and less waste. Nature expands inside places, influencing and integrating with textiles.

    For this collection, we implemented the circularity standards to include aspects that can be used in the production process as well as recycled or degradable materials and easily dismantled and reassembled products that are accessible to a wide range of individuals.

    The design, resource conservation, and long-term usability of the final product are all factors to be taken into consideration.

    BACKSTAGE

    Circle Book

    Meidea Team has been working on the entire project, contributing to the physical representation of a denim assortment.

    The outfits were created by combining the production expertise of THE CIRCLE BOOK 2’s new team and integrating their sustainable technology in the best possible way to decrease production waste and build garments that could be traced from fiber to finish. Hemp, organic cotton, Refibra, and Tencel were used in THE CIRCLE BOOK 2 collection. Starting with RTD or RAW bases, the balanced palette is produced following contemporary trends, colors that inspire serenity and well-being, a chromatic core with less pigment, thus already drained to minimize the consumption of water in the final treatments.

     In its formation, many efforts of multiple member brands took place. With the skillset of Officina +39 and Recycrom, which turns textile waste into powder dyes, TEJIDOS ROYO and CALIK DENIM textiles come together in a fresh perspective.

    “This year we’ve expanded the project and we are ready to launch the second edition in collaboration with many engaged partners, a team with common goals focused on transparency and circularity in denim design.” Says Eleonora De Martin, Meidea

     The collection also features Ribbontex’s labels and ribbons that are manufactured from biodegradable materials such as recycled plastic bottles, cotton, and polyester, as well as eco leathers, 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton, and hemp. Spring 85 supplied the buttons and rivets, including steel buttons manufactured from 100% re-used manufacturing waste.

     The collection consists of Recycrom, which is the industry’s most eco-friendly dye because it’s made from textile waste. Recycrom is a breakthrough technique created by the Italian textile chemical firm Officina+39 that uses 100 % recycled substances to generate long-lasting colors with a natural washed-out finish. Finally, they had Dr. Bock Industries who was in charge of garment production employing Crafil yarns, with additional support from the company’s designers. Clothing from the CULTURE.IN capsule collection is given the final polish by RGT laundry experts.

     The assortment takes fabrics from TEJIDOS ROYO and CALIK DENIM to meet Officina +39 and Recycrom’s expertise. It believes that it can achieve fantastic results because of the many fiber qualities and performance that make up the variety of textiles, such as hemp, organic cotton, Refibra, and Tencel.

  • Denim News Snippets – Week 38

    Denim News Snippets – Week 38

    Continuing our weekly news snippets, here are some interesting ones for Week 367

    ThredUp and Madewell Open Brooklyn Pop-Up Shop Featuring Exclusively Secondhand Clothes

    ThredUp and Madewell

    ThredUp is attempting to bring shopping full circle. The online consignment and thrift retailer opened an in-person pop-up shop in collaboration with Madewell, which is wholly loaded with secondhand clothing. The store, which is located in Brooklyn, New York, is a limited-edition extension of the online Madewell Forever denim resale program, which debuted in July. Customers will discover an assortment of 100% secondhand Madewell items supplied from ThredUp within the pop-up. Denim, skirts, coats, sweaters, shirts, and other pieces range widely from $10 to $40.

    The aim is to extend the lifespan of garments while also challenging the existing retail structure. The shop, for example, has QR codes at each clothing station, allowing ThredUp to provide a deep dive into how to buy, wear, care for, and pass on environmentally friendly apparel. According to Thredup’s 2021 Resale Report and Green Story Inc. study, every time a buyer purchases used rather than new, carbon emissions are decreased by 82%. Visitors can bring their garments to be properly mended on-site in addition to buying. The store also sells clothing that may be customized on-site for a perfect fit. ThredUp and Madewell repurposed existing Madewell tote bags for this store, screen printed over prior patterns to guarantee no packaging materials were produced net new or wasted. ThredUpClean Out Kits will also be available in-store to assist customers in keeping their clothes in use and out of landfills.

    Myntra ties with the Better Cotton Initiative.

    Myntra

    The largest Indian platform for fashion e-commerce Myntra said on Tuesday that it has collaborated with Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) and would source cotton for its in-house brands’ clothing through the worldwide non-profit organization. According to a statement, Myntra intends to get around 50% of its cotton demand from BCI over the next five to seven years. BCI has one of the largest cotton sustainability programs in the world, intending to make cotton cultivation sustainable. During the previous cotton season, BCI and its partners taught approximately 2.7 million cotton farmers sustainable techniques that use fewer pesticides and water to maximize agricultural efficiency.

    “Through this collaboration, Myntra will initially get 10% of its cotton demand from BCI, to increase that to 50% during the following five to seven years. To make adoption, scaling, and measuring easier, a mass balance approach would be used, in which Better Cotton would be blended with traditional cotton throughout the supply chain “According to the statement. While this means Better Cotton cannot be physically traced to final goods, BCI farmers will profit from the demand for Better Cotton in proportion to its sources, according to the statement. Better Cotton currently accounts for 23% of worldwide cotton output, with BCI’s almost 70 implementing partners quickly adapting their methods to changing conditions during the COVID-19 epidemic, according to the organization.

    We strive to implement more ecologically friendly practices across our supply chain as the country’s top fashion and leisure retailer. Myntra VP Product Development and Sourcing Neetu Jotwani stated, “By partnering with the BCI, we will continue the path to source more sustainable cotton across our whole company, striving towards a brighter future for the cotton industry and people whose lives depend on it.”

    US’ Wrangler collaborates with Infinited Fiber Company for sustainable denim

    Wrangler

    Wrangler has collaborated with Infinited Fiber Company to include Infinna – regenerated, recyclable fibers – into its Infinited Blue FW21 line, its most sustainable denim ever. It also includes Indigood, foam-dye technology to reduce effluent by over 99 per cent, and an e-flow finishing process.

    The sustainable denim is composed of Infinna, a premium fiber that has a comparable feel to regular denim’s soft-yet-durable cotton but is manufactured from textile waste. Conventional cotton cultivation is notorious for consuming a lot of water and pesticides, but Infinna can be made using a fraction of the water by utilizing responsible chemistry, according to a joint press statement from the two firms. Indigood Foam-Dye eliminates traditional indigo dyeing’s traditional water vats and chemical baths, while e-flow technology employs nanobubbles to transport chemical products more efficiently throughout the fabric’s finishing process, resulting in a smaller environmental impact.

     Wrangler and Infinited Fiber Company began their joint path to a circular future for textiles in 2015 when the commercial viability of Infinited Fiber’s technology was first examined and Wrangler began their quest of circularity. The Wrangler brand’s unwavering dedication to a more circular supply chain, along with Infinited Fiber’s superior process technology, brought this unique denim fabric to life over six years, according to the announcement.

    ORTA’s VR Experience Launch Aids Carbon Footprint Reduction Goals

    Orta

    ORTA launched an online virtual reality (VR) experience earlier in 2021, where partners could take a virtual hot air balloon flight and see new denim materials. Beyond the objective of providing sensations of relaxation and “zenfulness,” the actual purpose of the VR experience is to expand the denim manufacturer’s sustainability drive to minimize waste. The tool, created in partnership with virtual reality company Muse VR, is one of the most recent additions to ORTA’s “New Denim Route,” a supplier and resource platform meant to increase transparency in the denim production process.

    orta
    orta

  • CLOSED Sustainability Report Highlights

    CLOSED Sustainability Report Highlights

    Denim brands are increasingly looking for ways to decrease the environmental impact of their products. As part of their business strategies to protect the environment, many denim brands are focusing to adopt greener practices and techniques of producing jeans. They are conscious of the importance and need of building a sustainable future for the denim industry.

    One such brand that has come quite far in its sustainability journey is Closed – a German iconic denim retailer that has been around since 1978.

    About The Brand

    Marie and François Girbaud, two French fashion designers, created the renowned denim brand Closed in 1978. In the ’90s and 2000s, the duo had a big effect on hip-hop style with their distinctive take on denim silhouettes. The brand has been featured in songs and famous videos, like Kris Kross’ ‘Jump’, for its casual, stonewashed ensembles. It gained global popularity for its baggy denim designs thanks to endorsements from the hip-hop community.             

    The brand believes that sustainability is their key value to whatever they do. The brand has been progressively focusing on the environmental impacts of its products and has taken a number of steps to move ahead towards lowering the ramifications.

    CLOSED Sustainable Journey So Far

    Some of their latest steps towards the big goal included in their 2020 sustainability report :

    • The denim giant has just joined the Fair Wear Foundation, which will inspect the manufacturing facilities at regular intervals in the future — formally demonstrating to their consumers the great working conditions in which its production partners operate.
    • In collaboration with its denim mill Candiani, the company has expanded its eco-denim line A BETTER BLUE by launching the world’s first degradable stretch denim clothing made with the natural rubber yarn CorevaTM. A BETTER BLUE jeans are made using eco-friendly materials, low-impact dyeing techniques, and washing methods for resource conservation in Italy. So far, the company has manufactured 223,950 units of A BETTER BLUE things and claim that it has saved 6,882,870 litres of water, 649,455 kWh of electricity, and 77,262 kg of solid waste of chemicals (based on average savings compared to a pair of conventional Closed jeans).
    • To reduce its use of water, electricity, and chemicals even further, it has included eco-friendly innovations into its designs, such as outerwear made from 100% recycled materials coloured with plant dyes. The retailer is increasing the proportion of eco-materials.
    • Another important aspect in ensuring seamless manufacturing was the company’s short supply chains. This is a feature that has always been essential for the brand, as well as for environmental and quality concerns. An astounding 80% of our products are manufactured in Europe, near our key consumers. To reduce its environmental impact, the company has avoided flying materials or semi-finished clothes throughout the world. Its producers in Italy, Portugal, Romania, and Turkey typically work with European materials, whilst its Chinese partners primarily obtain materials from Asia, such as silk or technological textiles. To reduce emissions to a minimal, its clothes, footwear, and accessories are exclusively carried to warehouses by land or sea.
    • The company donates to climate protection projects to compensate for a part of unavoidable emissions. Its corporate offices and warehouses are already carbon-neutral. While they’re on the issue, they have some exciting news: beginning with the autumn 2021 collection, they will offset the CO2 emissions for all A BETTER BLUE jeans. They will progressively focus on eco-friendly measures and CO2 offsetting in the next years, with the goal of creating a totally climate-neutral supply chain.
    • Closed’s Code of Conduct, which is followed by all of its manufacturing partners, allows it to rely on an official letter that assures: no child labour, fair and statutory pay, compensated overtime, safe and sanitary working conditions, set working hours, and a maximum 48-hour work week. Every partner must sign the Code of Conduct twice a year.

    The Road Ahead

    The denim retailer is looking forward to bigger and better sustainability goals. The brand will provide PETA-approved vegan labeling for its items that do not include any animal-derived substances. They will be employing a new outerwear fabric composed of recycled nylon beginning with autumn 2021 collection. It is dyed with a plant-based dye that is environmentally friendly. ONIBEGIE is an eco-friendly dyeing method developed by its Japanese partners Komatsu Matere that upcycles onion peels, olives, and bamboo. By donating to eco-initiatives and offsetting its carbon emissions, its A BETTER BLUE jeans will bring climate-neutral items beginning with the winter 2021 collection. Additional certifications, declarations of purchase, and the provenance of the raw material, as well as animal welfare standards, are required for all yarns containing animal fibers beginning with the brand’s winter 2021 collection. In this collection, they will also include organic cashmere. It is also integrating a greater proportion of organic cotton and other natural fibers in its collections. As per the brand, 35% of its women’s and 47% of its men’s winter 2021 collections are eco-friendly, 41% of the women’s and 50% of the men’s denim are part of the eco-denim line A BETTER BLUE. The brand will also use recyclable paper for its hangtags.

    WHAT THE BRAND BELIEVES

    Since its inception, sustainability has played a critical part in Closed’s purpose. In the 1970s, the notion of “sustainable” was far from pervasive or widespread as it is now, and it was open to several interpretations. Closed has always represented respect for and a fair perspective of not just the environment, but also of everyone and everything with whom it works. Its declared goal was and continues to be long-term partnerships with all business colleagues, which is why the brand seeks for partners that share similar values and whom it can lay trust. Simply put, sustainability entails far more than this, it also entails using the planet’s resources as responsibly as possible.

    Timeless, the brand pays homage to its legendary past while also looking ahead, producing sustainable jeans for the coming years.

  • H&M’s Monki Joins Zalora: Unleashes the ‘Most’ Recycled Denim Collection Ever

    H&M’s Monki Joins Zalora: Unleashes the ‘Most’ Recycled Denim Collection Ever

    Monki joins Zalora

    H&M Group had a lot going on this week with its CEO and sustainability ambassador attending the Fashion Future Conference, its Monki Brand becoming a part of Zalora, and the launch of the world’s largest recycled denim collection ever, altogether.

    Monki, the company’s youth-oriented brand, is expanding its online presence throughout Southeast Asia. The brand currently has six storefronts in Malaysia and two in the Philippines, and the move onto a platform that is a major participant in online fashion retail in the area demonstrates that the company regards the market as vital. The launch also marks the brand’s first move to Singapore.

    “We have a strong following in south-east Asia, which makes us excited about expanding our online offer in this area together with Zalora. We can’t wait to welcome our new customers into the Monki world.” Says Jennie Dahlin Hansson, Managing Director, Monki

    Monki’s ranges on Zalora will showcase on-trend ensembles with conscious materials, inspired by Asian street style and Scandi fashion. New jeans styles in vibrant prints, all made from organic cotton, will be included.

    Monki will be available on Zalora in the Philippines up in late September, with Malaysia and Singapore following later this autumn.

    H&M’S FALL RECYCLED DENIM COLLECTION

    Monki joins Zalora

    The brand also announced its recycled denim collection for the fall season (which was worn by sustainability ambassador Maisie Williams for her virtual participation in a fashion future event). Baggy  jeans, loose straight leg jeans, trucker jackets, oversized overshirts, bucket hats, and shoppers make up H&M’s “Most Recycled Collection Ever.”

    Each apparel gets inspired by the laidback aesthetic seen in the 1990s. It’s crafted mainly from recycled metal zippers and trims and 100 % recycled fabrics, threads, labels, and pockets. Its washing technique has a minimal impact on the environment and is free of harmful chemicals. 

    The H&M Recycled Denim collection launches on 9 September 2021 with selected pieces in stores and the whole range online.

    INCORPORATING SUSTAINABILITY 

    Monki joins Zalora

    One of H&M’s greatest goals is to move to a circular production system, which entails reusing both production waste and collected clothes.

    Patchwork details and 90s denim washes ranging from vintage light blue, normcore mid-blues, dark vintage blues, vintage blacks, and cool grey, are featured in the new collection. It aims to highlight the possibilities of recycled materials and provide denim fans around the world with even more sustainable options. Each clothing is created entirely of recycled materials, including pre-consumer recycled cotton from industrial waste cuttings and post-consumer recycled cotton from collected garments, some with recycled polyester, and accessories made entirely of fabrics cut and re-used from production rejections. 

    FASHION’S NEW NORMAL 

    Monki joins Zalora

    During the Fashion Future Conference 2021, H&M CEO Helena Helmersson and sustainability ambassador Maisie Williams met virtually to discuss the future of fashion, specifically the post-pandemic road for the business. The talk focused on the fashion industry’s post-pandemic path forward, a future that will require imagination, creativity, technological innovation, and new business models to connect customers in innovative ways.

    Helmersson and Williams provided a glimpse into the future of sustainable fashion. They left on a positive and empowering note, focusing on practical solutions and reminding us that while there are physical limitations to what the planet can support, fashion can find a way to work within them.

    The duo also stated that sustainability is an ongoing challenge that requires influencers, companies, and governments to unite around a singular purpose. “Creating a truly sustainable business isn’t a one-off job. But, when we — influencers, companies, governments — come together around a common goal, we can do almost anything.” Said Helmersson.

    They also feel that “creativity and technology are key.” H&M’s new technology has provided the brand, whole different methods to interact with customers. A personal avatar that helps clients try on items in virtual fitting rooms is one excellent example that H&M Group developed in its internal innovation lab. Virtual fits could help enhance accessibility and reduce product returns, to bring another dimension to the shopping experience. Helmersson cited the company’s 3D body scanner and the Loop machine in Stockholm as examples of its innovation. Customers could transform unwanted garments into new fashion favorites, enabling them to see the textile-to-textile recycling process, which is generally kept behind the scenes.

    Earlier, the brand also launched its sustainability-linked bond which aims at sustainability-driven initiatives. The bond is linked to H&M Group meeting several sustainability targets, such as by 2025 reducing emissions from its operations by 20 percent. The brand is also committed to reducing absolute Scope 3 emissions from garment manufacturing, fabric production, upstream transport, and raw materials by 10 percent.

    Helmersson stated that the notion of sustainability is evolving. According to her expanding definitions of sustainability beyond materials, to include the people and relationships that go into creating the fashion we wear is an important part of the agenda that needs to be followed for fashion’s new normal.

    H&M believes that by going backward and reusing leftover fabrics, we can move forwards and create denim that’s kinder to the planet.  It quotes, “Remember, waste isn’t waste until you actually waste it.”  The brand grails to achieve sustainable growth that makes a positive difference to people and the planet.

  • Denim News Snippets – Week 36

    Denim News Snippets – Week 36

    Continuing our weekly news snippets, here are some interesting ones for Week 36

    Levi’s, Gap, and AEO Snag Strategic Startups with Cash on Board

    Levi's, Gap, and AEO Snag Strategic Startups with Cash on Board

    Over the last month, denim-related brands have gone on a buying binge. American Eagle Outfitters acquired logistics-focused AirTerra, and Drapr, a virtual try-on e-commerce startup, is now part of Gap Inc. Levi Strauss & Co. made its grand entrance into the activewear category by acquiring Beyond Yoga. Each of the three retailers has enough cash on hand to fulfill the acquisition. Gap Inc. had $2.4 billion in cash and cash equivalents as of last month’s second-quarter earnings, while AEO had $774 million in the bank. And when Levi Strauss & Co. reported in July, the denim brand had $1.2 billion in cash reserves. Levi Strauss is venturing into new ground. The denim legend hopes to increase women’s sales from about one-third to more than half of total sales. Given that the global activewear market is expected to hit $200 billion by 2020, according to Euromonitor International, and encountered tremendous growth during the Covid-19 pandemic, acquiring Beyond Yoga could be a quick way for Levi’s to achieve that target, instead of dedicating new resources and employees to creating a new category from the scratch. Anyway, not every acquisition is the same. The Beyond Yoga deal, and Levi’s capitalization on a hot category, serve a very different purpose than AEO’s and Gap’s technology initiatives, which have both sought to restructure themselves with smaller, more agile physical operations. AirTerra will function independently for the time being, according to AEO, while supporting the supply chains of American Eagle and its other retail clients. The startup complements the apparel company’s ongoing supply chain attempts, demonstrating its willingness to build and buy.

    UK’s Antur Supply launches Crowdfunding for its new performance denim

    Crowdfunding

    Antur Supply Co, a lifestyle brand curated for the adventurous spirit based in the United Kingdom, has launched a Kickstarter campaign for its new performance denim jeans. The company’s unique ASX denim fabric, which is composed of a cotton, Coolmax, and Lycra blend for optimal comfort, is featured on the breathable, durable, and unrestrictive denim with deep functioning pockets. Coolmax denim is 30% more breathable than regular denim because it is engineered to keep moisture away from the skin. It also has thermo-regulating features, keeping the wearer warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. The denim is amplified with a gusset panel for stretch, mobility, and durability. In addition to deep pockets in both men’s and women’s jeans, the company has added a secure flap to the inside of the back pocket to help keep valuables safe. The jeans also have a Silverplus finish that makes them water-resistant, anti-odor, and anti-bacterial, reinforced belt loops, a sustainable backpatch, Coats Epic EcoVerde threading, and eco-friendly metalware. The performance denim was funded entirely in less than 10 hours, according to Osian Gwynedd, owner of Antur Supply Co. It currently has 799 backers who have pledged a total of $86,086.

    Premium American Brand Frame launches Bio-Degradable denim Collection

    Bio-Degradable denim Collection

    The frame has launched (Bio) Degradable jeans in collaboration with Milan-based and family-run Candiani, which are made from 100 percent biodegradable cotton.

    The (Bio) Degradable denim collections for both men’s and women’s wear entail three innovative fabrics: Rigid 727, Comfort Stretch 785, and Super Stretch 778 denim, which degrade according to stretch content. While the rigid fabric is entirely made of cotton and is fully biodegradable, the comfort stretches and super-stretch fabrics use Roica V550, a yarn that decomposes in a fraction of the time that conventional yarn does and leaves no harmful substances in the environment. Candiani’s signature micro plastics-free dying process is then implemented to the jeans to ensure that they are biodegradable. Each style is also made with “minimal impact,” according to Frame, as the jeans are sewn with 100% Tencel threads that break down with the denim, and metal rivets have been replaced with embroidered “drivets” and buttons made from recycled metals. Organic or recycled cotton pocket bags and labels, as well as recycled paper hangtags printed with soy-based ink, are also used on the jeans. The frame has commissioned London-based creative studio Isabel + Helen to design a window display for Frame’s Madison Avenue, SoHo, and Dallas stores, as well as department store Harrods, to commemorate the launch. The sculptures “reference the circular and almost infinite journey of the innovative denim”. Prices for the collection begin at 225 pounds and will be available online at frame-store.com.

    Unspun Generates $7.5 Million for US- based Robotic Manufacturing

    Robotic Manufacturing

      The robotics and digital apparel company announced on Wednesday that it had raised $7.5 million in seed funding to further its mission of eliminating waste in the jeans production process. Unspun’s business model is appealing as both an investor and a customer, according to investor Duncan Turner, general partner SOSV and managing director at venture capital-based programme Hax. “The Unspun team opened my eyes to the horrific waste within the fast fashion industry and inspired me with their solution for fixing it: Make the best jeans you ever owned, in the U.S., without any waste,” he said. “Simple and brilliant, just like the jeans which I wear proudly as a first customer.” The main objective of the San Francisco and Hong Kong-based company is to reduce global carbon emissions by 1% through automated, localized, and intentional manufacturing. Its made-to-order business model reduces standing inventory and returns while also better-aligning profitability and sustainability. The National Science Foundation of the United States, HAX (SOSV), Highland Capital, The Mills Fabrica, Sequoia (scout), HK Cyberport, Fifty Years, Prelude Ventures, Novetex, Climate Capital, and the Straubel Foundation have all previously invested. Following that, the company intends to focus on on-shore robotic manufacturing, which will enable fully localized, automated, on-demand, and profitable U.S. production in minutes. It also expects to become a B Corp within the next few months.