A medley of fibers, yarns and fabrics feature as this activewear trend pushes the ‘livingwear’ aspect of functional garments. There is also a strong appeal for this sporty look for consumers pursuing new ‘experiences’ to share via social media, escaping the 24/7 hyper connectivity and chaos.

The continuing casualization of the ready-to-wear sector in incorporating sustainability and function sees the crossover of knowledge being shared and incorporated into new markets. Athleisure remains significant, but it has to progress and incorporate a greater technicity and flexibility in order for it to evolve.

A natural and a highly synthetic look merge and compliment in creating new ideas for the activewear sector at all levels. From leisure activities to more extreme participation through to urban living and sports, the sense of freedom of this trend is huge.

PRODUCTS

• · creora® Fresh – odor neutralizing spandex/elastane
• · creora® eco-soft – low-heat settable spandex/elastane perfect for cellulosics
• · creora® Color+ – dyeable spandex/elastane for intensity to color

COMPANION FIBERS

• · Natural fibers: BCI cotton, merino wool, silk, cashmere, linen
• · Man made fibers: lyocell, modal
• · Natural touch cotna® – cotton touch polyester
• · MIPAN® regen™ recycled nylon and regen™ recycled polyester
• · aeroheat® – heat generating polyester
• · Bio synthetics
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  MIPAN® aqua-X – moisture management nylon with a cool touch & UV, taking performance into the lifestyle sector

• · askin® polyester – UV, cooling, and moisture managemnet

CONSIDER

• · Performance stretch knit denim with moisture management or cool touch or thermal - jog jeans continue
• · Performance denim with aramid yarns of high resistance in softer and lighter knit and woven
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  Bestselling basic second layer single and double knits with comfort stretch and additional functional membrane treatment

• · Lightweight spongey structures
• · Matte, textured surfaces achieved through full textured yarns
• · Thermal regulating
• · Bonded fabrics for a spacer effect
• · Hybrid blends - synthetic, natural and creora® spandex/elastane - function plus natural touch
• · Fluid and sub touch jersey in linen, silk and modal with creora® eco-soft
• · Cashmere and merino wool/polyester blends with creora® eco-soft for luxury level livingwear
• · Higher level of functionality teaming with a more fashionable styling with creora fresh for confidence
• · Fine raw touch knits in fine gauge with body from the inclusion of creora® eco-soft

TARGET MARKETS

• · Urban sports
• · Outdoors
• · Family ‘leisure time’
• · Living-wear - next generation athleisure
• · Travel