Sustainable and athleisure products continue to dominant new trends in the fashion and apparel industry. At Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Spring Edition from April 14-16, 2022 in Shanghai/China, the latest and most innovative products that are driving the developments in the market will be presented. Green fabrics, fibers and solutions can be found not only in the All About Sustainability zone, but across all product group zones such as Beyond Denim, whilst high-performance fabrics for sports and outdoor wear will be on display at the Functional Lab.
According to a survey carried out by the US Cotton Trust Protocol, Memphis, TN/USA, in the UK and US among 1,000 fashion brands and retailers, 69% of participants believe that the pandemic has emphasized the importance of environmentally friendly products to customers. Meanwhile, 61% also note that there has been an increased demand for sustainable products among consumers.
This movement is echoed in China, as the government pushes to implement a sustainably-led growth model in the apparel industry, centered upon circular economy practices and innovative solutions to repurpose recycled materials. Water and pollution reduction are also a focus for developing a greener industry in the country.
In the denim market, sustainability has been at the forefront of discussions for many years and in 2021, denim brands and suppliers are improving their processes, production and traceability. High-tech materials such as hemp, soybean, Repreve, Naia, Ciclo, and Smartcell are paired with clean indigo styles that make it a good choice for a seasonless style. The production process retains quality whilst using less water and energy consumption, demonstrating how innovation can meet luxury, without compromise.
At Intertextile, the dedicated All About Sustainability zone focuses on green products and solutions in the industry. Outside the zone, other sustainable suppliers can be found, to meet the market demand.
Meanwhile, athleisure that enhances efficiency and utilizes new technology is also making waves in the Chinese market. In particular, domestic brands have reported increased demand with sportswear retailer Li-Ning seeing a year-on-year growth of 37.7% during the busy ‘singles day’ shopping period. Outdoor down jacket brand Bosideng also rose sales by 53% in the same year. Consumer habits inclining towards healthier and more active lifestyles are set to continually increase the potential for functional fabrics.
Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Spring Edition 2022 will be held concurrently with the Spring Edition of Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles, Yarn Expo Spring, CHIC and PH Value.