Global apparel markets: product developments and innovations, 4th quarter 2008

Abstract

YAMAMOTO HAS DEVELOPED A NEW FABRIC FOR SWIMSUITS WHICH CAN IMPROVE PERFORMANCE

Japan-based Yamamoto, a manufacturer of rubber materials, has developed a new fabric for swimsuits which improves performance. It does this by helping to keep a swimmer' s body warm and by minimising the amount of water the fabric absorbs - thereby limiting the gain in weight. The fabric comprises three layers.

The outer layer is made from rubber and can adsorb water molecules in order to reduce drag during swimming. The middle layer contains a titanium alloy which is an extremely thin film that provides heat retaining properties. The inner layer is made from polyester and has low water absorbency, which helps to keep the weight of the suit to a minimum while it is under water.

Yamamoto has begun selling the fabric and expects sales to be worth ¥1 bn (US$10.8 mn) in the first year.

Table of Contents

• Design
• Design technology
• Smart textiles
• Fabrics for apparel
• Fabric treatments for apparel
• Environmentally-friendly apparel
• Functional apparel
• Retail

DESIGN

• An American inventor has developed a new head covering for hooded jackets which offers unobstructed vision
• Designers at Levi Strauss have developed a pair of jeans which can enhance the appearance of a woman' s buttocks
• The fundoshi is fast becoming a fashionable undergarment for women in Japan Uniqlo' s bra top camisoles are popular among Japanese women

DESIGN TECHNOLOGY

• Lectra has launched a new version of DiaminoFashion, its marker-making software for apparel manufacturers

SMART TEXTILES

• US scientists have developed an electrically conductive cotton yarn which can detect bleeding

FABRICS FOR APPAREL

• AgResearch has won an award for its Natural Easy Care (NEC) washable merino wool fabric
• Yamamoto has developed a new fabric for swimsuits which can improve performance

FABRIC TREATMENTS FOR APPAREL

• Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) has developed a technology which enables woven products made from merino wool to be cleaned under a domestic shower

ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY APPAREL

• H&M has featured garments made from recycled materials in its spring 2009 collection

FUNCTIONAL APPAREL

• Marks & Spencer (M&S) and Sanitized have introduced a range of antimicrobial socks called M&S Freshfeet

RETAIL

• NP Collection has opened an "intelligent" clothing store in Finland which uses radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to help customers choose items of clothing
• The Accessory Corporation has developed a new anti-slip clothes hanger