3D Printed Fashion Finally Got Wearable
Introducing the world’s first collection of 3D printed fashion [Photo: Modeclix]
As high-tech as it sounds, 3D printed fashion isn’t completely new to the catwalks of the style industry. In fact it’s already been incorporated into the collections of designers like Iris van Herpen, Chanel and Noa Raviv. The problem so far is that intricate and impressive as they look, the clothes haven’t been terribly wearable. Until now.
Step forward the clever bods behind the MODECLIX project, which has recently announced the first collection of 3D printed fashion that is as wearable as it is technologically impressive.
By ‘printing’ textiles that are flexible in movement and mimic traditional materials, the collection which features eight dresses and two headpieces, aims to be the first 3D fashion range that could eventually be stocked on the high street.
Shaun Borstrock, Associate Dean for Business and Innovation at Hertfordshire University, is the architect behind the project, which has been created in collaboration with renowned 3D specialist and designer Mark Bloomfield (electrobloom).
“It will only be a matter of time before we see 3D collections on the high street and 3D printing technology in stores as part of everyday life,” Dr Borstrock told Yahoo. “We’re pleased to be part of the movement that is exploring how this might become a reality.”
3D Fashion gets wearable! [Photo: Modeclix]
Explaining how the project differs from other 3D designs Dr Borstrock continues:
“Previous 3D printed designs have been mostly conceptual pieces that are solid, with little or no movement. We have strived to create stylish 3D printed garments that have sufficient movement to ensure they are fluid, eye-catching and comfortable to wear.”
All of the dresses in the collection have been designed to flatter the wearer’s natural shape without compromising on style or comfort and each piece can be customised to any size by adjusting the intricate links to fit by hand.
Produced on an industrial 3D printer, making time varies depending on the complexity of the design, but on average printing a dress takes around 62 hours.
So who do the team hope to see wearing their designs?
“It would be fantastic to design for people like Scarlett Johansson and Rebel Wilson to show how Modeclix can be used to capture very different personalities and show its versatility.”
Want to see more? View the collection online from May 1st or view this short video about the making of the collection.
Would you wear 3D printed fashion? Let us know @YahooStyleUK
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