Sustainability is an imperative

“Put people and planet first by investing in circular and environmentally-friendly solutions to drive new season developments”

Around the world amidst the tragedy of the pandemic, many cities have seen improved air quality, a sharp reduction in pollution and the re-emergence of wildlife since the introduction of lockdown measures. Although it’s too early to predict the long term impact of the pandemic on the climate emergency, the current side-effects offer a glimpse of an alternative, greener future. Rhiana Gunn-Wright, director of climate policy at the Roosevelt Institute, told Vogue

“there is a different world possible”

Covid-19 could act as a catalyst for radical change across the industry precipitating a green recovery as mindset and values shift.

Post-virus, consumers will prioritise brands that align with their morality, with an emphasis placed on conscious consumption. Now more than ever, sustainability is a prerequisite for doing business.

For Autumn/Winter 2021/22 focus on developments which commercialise made-in-nature materials, zero-waste initiatives and promote longevity through versatility.

Outlined below are three key themes from our Autumn/Winter 2021/22 forecast, developed by trend forecaster Chantell Fenton in collaboration with the LTP Group.

1. INVEST IN MADE IN NATURE

The answers lie in the natural world. 'Grown' materials that occur naturally in nature will gain momentum. Invest in algae and bio-based materials to replace virgin qualities. The aquatic plant is growing at epidemic levels due to global warming so it is currently in abundance in nature.

Look to leaders in this field Vollebak's Plant and Algae t-shirt, made of eucalyptus and beech fibres and printed with bioreactor-grown algae. Charlotte McCurdy also farmed algae for her carbon-negative biodegradable raincoat. Circularity is key. Consider every component to ensure the entire garment biodegrades, including trims and threads. Aim to make waste-free clothing a reality.

2. USE PLAYFUL RE-HACK TO PROMOTE CIRCULARITY

As sustainability becomes integral to design playful re-hacks drive new season development using deadstock fabric, trims and previously conceived junk will provide a valuable resource for remake and repair.

Create unique and mismatched pieces from repurpose waste garments/accessories, excess inventory and ad-hoc items, including production surplus and offcuts. Draw inspiration from Max Machaidze’s art-jewellery of found objects from his Soviet-era childhood. Use mis-matched prints and hiking trims to take remaking to a new level.

3. ABOVE SEA LEVEL INSPIRES ADAPTABLE STYLES THAT WORK FOR WET AND DRY SPORTS

As we continue to see the effects of the climate emergency, rising sea levels will have a real impact. As ice melts away, new technologies will redefine how we interact with the ocean.

The fliteboard is the future of surf. Emission free and environmentally friendly, the electric hydrofoil watercraft enables riders to feel the ‘sensation of flying’ over water. Winter cross-functional training products will become a requirement. Use seam-free and welded construction to reduce drag and chafing. Submerged into underwater darkness, visibility will be key. Use reflective panelling, prints and weaves. For a sustainable option look to nanocellulose-pigments.

CREATE SUSTAINABLE APPAREL WITH THE LTP GROUP

LTP are proud to operate as a modern and responsible manufacturer, creating a sustainable world is the teams number one objective, far outweighing any other purpose. Everyday the LTP Group challenge themselves to make premium products for global brands in a way that is both socially and environmentally conscious.

HOW TO GET THE COMPLETE AUTUMN/WINTER 2021/22 SPORT/OUTDOOR FORECAST

Existing customers and partners can contact CCO Alex Ingildsen (ali@l-t-p.com) for their exclusive copy of the Autumn/Winter 2021/22 sport/outdoor forecast. Produced seasonally by trend expert Chantell Fenton.

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