Eastman Naia Renew showcased in sustainable wool blend at Challenge the Fabric 2025 in Milan

Eastman Naia joined Challenge the Fabric (CTF) 2025 as an Innovation Partner, reinforcing its commitment to circularity and collaboration. Held on May 13-14 in Milan, the event brought together leaders from fashion, textiles, and forestry to accelerate sustainable solutions and spotlight man-made cellulosic fibers.

As a part of the CTF Award competition, Eastman collaborated with emerging designer Oscar Ouyang and Prato-based Italian mill Lady V to create a garment using NAIA/WO a custom textile blending 50 per cent RWS-certified virgin wool, 50 per cent GRS-certified recycled wool, and Naia Renew staple fiber. The fabric, finished in traditional wooden barrels, offers a luxurious lambswool texture without over-felting.

Naia Renew is Eastman's cellulosic fiber made from 60 per cent sustainably sourced wood pulp and 40 per cent GRS-certified recycled content, using molecular recycling. The collaboration highlights how modern MMCF yarns can merge seamlessly with heritage processes to enable low-impact innovation.

Oscar Ouyang’s shepherd-inspired design was praised for its fusion of tradition and technology. Lady V’s Cristiano Vieri lauded the fabric’s unique properties and sustainable profile. Claudia de Witte of Eastman emphasized the importance of such cross-sector partnerships in her panel on scaling ambition into execution. The project illustrates how circular yarns can drive the future of fashion.