HIGHLIGHTS 

• The Future Fabrics Virtual Expo website was FREE to access during the event, showcasing over 1,300+  globally-sourced, commercially-available fabrics and materials with a reduced environmental impact including materials from regenerative agriculture, agricultural waste, regenerated cellulosics and more. ​

• Sustainable materials from around the world in a diverse range of fibre categories such as: materials from regenerative agriculture, agricultural waste, regenerated cellulosics such as TENCEL™ Lyocell and REFIBRA™ Technology by Lenzing Group; innovative labelling solutions from Avery Dennison RBIS; recycled natural materials, organic cottons, low impact wools and animal fibres, sustainable silks, linens, bast fibres, responsibly-produced leather and innovative alternatives to animal skins

• In partnership with TECHSTYLE: the Future Fabrics Virtual Expo currently showcases a selected display of sustainable materials that can be purchased directly on the TECHSTYLE platform. TECHSTYLE is a digital sourcing platform that connects apparel brands and fabric suppliers in the most efficient, accessible and transparent marketplace

• Informative educational content and resources: Explore more materials and more content around sustainable fashion solutions on our website – deep dive into our educational content, resources, reports, masterclasses and more. Learn about how fibres are grown and their impacts on climate, biodiversity and the oceans if produced conventionally; and the importance of securing a sustainable supply chain. Follow us on Instagram Live for interviews with mills and suppliers featured in our Future Fabrics Expo

• A dozen panel discussions held by thought leaders, experts, and change makers such as ELLEN MACARTHUR FOUNDATION, NEONYT, Fashion for Good and more. We hosted a special discussion on “Exploring the connections between Environmental and Social Justice” featuring Orsola de Castro, Bel Jacobs and Eden Diodati.​

The Future Fabrics Virtual Expo is an online discovery and sourcing platform for sustainable textiles and materials, recently re-launched with increased search capability and the opportunity for direct contact with international mills. Virtual Expo users can access thousands of featured materials that have a reduced environmental impact. Each fabric is listed with technical specifications and sustainability focused information, making it a valuable tool for both designers and buyers new to the area, as well as those with established sourcing strategies.

Given that most fashion brands’ impacts originate from their use of raw materials, the Future Fabrics VIRTUAL Expo LIVE aims to enable a holistic understanding of complex sustainability issues, promote informed decision-making and most importantly, provide the tools for it.