The activated charcoal fabric is "similar to sweatshirt materials," at least with regards to a collaboration between Tokyo-based fashion brand Senscommon and textile firm Uchino Japan.
The two brands worked together to bring consumers a range of minimalist clothing that boasts "self-purifying" qualities. This entails that the garments are resistant to unpleasantries like odor, bacteria, moisture, and even environmental chemicals.
The process of creating the activated charcoal fabric proves to be quite interesting. Uchino Japan grounded Ubame oak charcoal into a powder. This was then infused into the fibers of a cotton and rayon materials, before being spun into yarn. The result is comfort-inducing, timeless and incredibly stylish. The inaugural collection — dubbed 'On Journey,' consists of shorts, trousers, a cardigan, a t-shirt, a robe, and a shirt.
Self-Purifying Charcoal Fashion
Senscommon & Uchino Japan Utilize an Activated Charcoal Fabric
Trend Themes
1. Self-purifying Clothing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop self-purifying clothing for other industries such as sportswear or workwear.
2. Activated Charcoal Fabric - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the use of activated charcoal fabric in home textiles, such as bed linens or upholstery.
3. Minimalist Fashion - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate self-purifying properties into high-end fashion brands to offer a unique selling proposition.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporate self-purifying clothing technology into different fashion segments, including streetwear and luxury fashion.
2. Sportswear - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Apply self-purifying properties to sportswear materials to enhance performance and hygiene for athletes.
3. Home Textiles - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop self-purifying technologies for bed linens, upholstery, and other home textile products to promote a cleaner and healthier environment.