In the heart of Lakmé Fashion Week X Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) 2023, something revolutionary was taking place. The finale of the R|ElanTM presents Circular Design Challenge (CDC), in partnership with the United Nations in India, was a culmination of innovation, sustainability, and the utmost creativity in the world of fashion.
CDC is a platform that empowers young designers and entrepreneurs to shine a spotlight on their circular fashion creations. It's all about promoting sustainability and eco-friendly practices in the fashion industry. The result? A showcase of stunning designs and ground-breaking concepts that are redefining the way we perceive fashion.
Here's a glimpse of the six global finalists who competed for the most coveted prize in circular fashion:
1. Pei-Wen - Tangram Club
Image Source: Instagram/circulardesignchallenge
Pei-Wen, has perfected her patented zero waste pattern cutting through an innovative line, ‘Tangram Club.’ Her collection boasted an array of black and white outfits featuring multiple textures, fabrics, lace, sheer materials, accessories, and hooded details. Pei-Wen's design philosophy revolves around the belief that sustainability should be an inherent part of every decision in the fashion industry. Her inventive approach has earned her patents for modular zero-waste patterns and new design techniques in Taiwan.
2. Felipe Fiallo - Regenerative Luxury Footwear
Image Source: Instagram/circulardesignchallenge
Inspired by his Ecuadorian roots, Felipe Fiallo has developed a regenerative design technology that allows him to create luxurious footwear that is completely biodegradable. His collection included vibrant boots, a fresh take on white sneakers, and colour-blocked sneakers. Felipe's focus on regenerative design combines technology and craftsmanship, set to make a profound impact on the luxury footwear industry.
3. Amesh Wiesekera - Ethical and Waste-Reducing Fashion
Image Source: Instagram/circulardesignchallenge
Amesh Wiesekera, based in London, showcases his solution-first approach to closing the loop on clothing waste from Sri Lanka. His collection featured vibrant ensembles, characterised by colour-blocking, knit-style fabrics, and intricate layers. Amesh's work with factory surplus fibres aims to address clothing waste in Sri Lanka while supporting local artisans and promoting ethical practices.
4. Banofi and Studio Beej - Biparita Accessories
Image Source: Instagram/circulardesignchallenge
Banofi and Studio Beej joined forces to present ‘Biparita,’ an accessory collection created exclusively for the CDC. Banofi, a plant-based leather made from banana crop waste, harmoniously integrates with Studio Beej's plant-based accessories. The collection combines bioresearch, Indian craftsmanship, and climate awareness, deeply rooted in Bengal. Biparita's range includes a variety of accessories like bracelets, corset belts, fanny packs, bags, palm cuffs, and more, all of which are vegan, cruelty-free, and circular. Plant-based leather never looked cooler!
5. Without - Sunglasses from Recycled Packaging
Image Source: Instagram/circulardesignchallenge
The brand, Without's innovation is truly remarkable – the world's first sunglasses made from recycled packets of chips. These sunglasses, rooted in functionality, are UV-polarised, durable, and comfortable. Without recycles discarded multi-layered plastic packaging to create high-quality materials for various products. The brand focuses on guilt-free consumption through circular products and empowers waste-pickers integral to their process.
6. Studio Medium - Upcycled Textile Waste
Image Source: Instagram/circulardesignchallenge
Studio Medium takes a solution-first approach to upcycling textile waste from their studio to create circular apparel. Bandhani, a fundamental part of their brand DNA, generates significant thread waste and textile offcuts. Through a templated solution, Studio Medium transforms silk offcuts and discarded cotton yarns into delightful apparel and home textile pieces. The resulting compositions feature abstract shapes, a pastel yet vibrant colour palette, layers, volume, and texture, all contributing to a future with zero waste.
The R|Elan presents Circular Design Challenge represents a profound shift towards sustainability in the fashion industry. It showcases the boundless creativity of designers who are deeply committed to making fashion more eco-friendly, ethical, and innovative. These finalists are more than just fashion designers; they are champions of environmental change, paving the way for a brighter and more sustainable fashion future.