As activewear becomes more common in the workplace, Invista, one of the largest integrated producers of fibres and polymers, has unveiled a showcase collection from emerging designers that explores the fashion potential of outdoor wear. 

Using the latest consumer insights, and with help from fashion tech start-up Manufacture New York (MNY), Invista’s showcase collection combines new designs with fabric and fibre innovations namely T400 technology by Lycra brand and Lycra Sport fibre.

“Essentially, we’re pairing cutting-edge designers with cutting-edge fabrics.  And since the workplace is changing, with commuter wear assuming a more prominent position in the workplace, we have a chance to help shape the future of athleisure,” Heather Stefani, Invista’s Global Segment Director, Active and Outdoor.

Survey results

Invista has surveyed over 1,000 consumers of active and outdoor apparel in the last year to understand their needs and desires. The research showed that both men and women would pay more for added benefits such as quick dry.

It was concluded that lifestyle considerations – such as going from the gym to the workplace to the bar – were fuelling these buying trends. Over 40% of men want better fits, while over 70% of women surveyed wear their black workout leggings to hang out in.

“There’s been a sizeable shift in corporate culture recently, with active and outdoor wear being embraced by busy millennial professionals,” explained Heather Stefani. “We’re excited to be in the thick of this changing mindset because companies are starting to understand the need for commuter wear and to accept it as part of the working lifestyle.”

Merging of fashion and function

According to Heather Stefani, a real turning point has been the merging of technologies, like Invista’s T400 and Coolmax technologies. These fibres are designed to offer the right amount of stretch and freedom of movement needed for biking and hiking thereby providing the perfect foundation for casual business wear.

To help bring this showcase collection to life, Invista worked with Manufacture NY, a start-up that is dedicated to providing independent fashion designers with the resources and skills to streamline their process, from concept to customer. As an innovation hub, MNY is also leading the design and production of the next generation of wearable technology. 

“We’re very excited to partner with Invista because we see this as a real opportunity to innovate. The challenge for our designers was to incorporate Invista’s breakthrough fabrics and fibres into designs that could live just as comfortably in an outdoor setting as a conference room,” commented Bob Bland, MNY CEO.

www.invista.com