Denim Goes Green: Biodegradable fabrics, upcycling top WGSN trends in 2024
Denim is getting a radical makeover, and sustainability is at the heart of the transformation. WGSN, a leading trend forecasting firm, has dubbed biodegradable denim one of its top trends for 2024, recognizing the innovative efforts of mills like Candiani Denim and Calik Denim in paving the way for a greener future for this iconic fabric.
This eco-conscious shift is a direct response to fashion's mounting textile waste problem. With over two billion pairs of jeans produced globally each year, finding solutions to deal with this colossal waste mountain is crucial. While the industry is inching towards a circular model, recycling only accounts for a tiny fraction of discarded garments. Biodegradable denim offers a promising alternative, allowing discarded jeans to safely decompose in the natural environment.
Candiani Denim’s biodegradable solutions
Candiani Denim is among the frontrunners in this eco-revolution. In 2019, they introduced the groundbreaking Coreva technology, the first-ever biodegradable and compostable stretch denim. This replaces the synthetic elastane commonly found in stretchy jeans with natural rubber, significantly reducing its environmental footprint. The rubber decomposes in roughly four months, a stark contrast to synthetic fibers that can linger for centuries, often contributing to microplastic pollution.
Developing Coreva wasn't a casual feat. It took the Italian mill five years of dedicated research and development to perfect this game-changing technology. Brands like Triarchy, Denham, and Stella McCartney have incorporated Coreva into their denim lines, and Candiani has launched its own brand, Coreva Design, showcasing the versatility and style potential of this eco-friendly fabric.
Candiani is actively educating consumers about the significance of Coreva. Their Milan store, opened in 2021, provides an immersive experience that demystifies the technology and its environmental benefits. Through visual storytelling and accessible explanations, they're bridging the gap between innovation and conscious consumerism.
Turkish innovation in the forefront
Not to be outdone, Turkish mill Calik Denim entered the fray in 2022 with their equally impressive B210 technology. This unique yarn and finishing process combination achieves remarkable biodegradability, allowing denim fabrics to decompose by over 99 per cent in just 210 days. Unlike other solutions, B210 is adaptable, working with fabrics containing synthetic fibers and various types of elasticity. This opens up its potential beyond denim, extending to other textile applications.
Serhat Karaduman, CEO of Calik Denim, says it took three years of meticulous trial and error to perfect the technology. But their persistence paid off, paving the way for the debut of B210-powered jeans in 2024.
Other exciting denim trends
WGSN also identifies other trends in denim.
Upcycled Denim: Thrifting and patchwork techniques are gaining traction, offering unique ways to personalize and extend the life cycle of denim garments. Thrifting, is making its way into the office environment with the "thrift-dult" trend. This approach to professional dressing encourages the fusion of personal style and workplace attire, emphasizing pre-loved garments and reworked pieces.
Performance Denim: Denim is evolving to incorporate more technical features, making it suitable for active lifestyles and unpredictable weather conditions. Think breathable, water-resistant, and durable denim for outdoor adventures.
Hybrid Denim: Denim is blending with other materials like mesh, leather, and even recycled plastic to create innovative textures and functionalities.
The demand for versatility also takes center stage with "beach-to-business" shirts. These wrinkle-resistant, modular, and packable tops seamlessly transition from casual beach cover-ups to polished office attire. Think quick-release buckles, functional compartments, and even inflatable hoods that double as makeshift pillows for unexpected travel delays.
Finally, "Prepare-wear" addresses our increasingly volatile world, offering adaptable, durable, and packable gender-inclusive outdoor garments. This trend caters to survivalist mindsets and unpredictable weather patterns, featuring clothing with practical features like quick-release fastenings and protective hoods.
Denim meets technology
Innovation is pushing the boundaries of denim with the integration of smart technologies. Temperature-regulating fibers, self-cleaning finishes, and even interactive elements like LED lights are being explored, offering a glimpse into the future of denim with enhanced functionality and personalized experiences.
WGSN emphasizes the influence of diverse cultural aesthetics on denim. From the bold colors and patterns of Latin American traditions to the minimalist sophistication of Japanese Boro stitching, global inspirations are adding a unique flavor to denim designs.
Fashion future rooted in sustainability
WGSN's trend report clearly highlights sustainability is no longer a fringe concept in the fashion world. From biodegradable denim to versatile, multi-functional clothing, the industry is evolving to address environmental concerns and empower consumers to make conscious choices. With denim mills like Candiani and Calik Denim leading the charge, the future of fashion promises to be not just stylish, but responsible and eco-conscious.