In the heart of Paris, at the SACRe EnsAD – PSL Research University, a revolutionary approach to fashion and textiles is taking shape, with implications that could ripple through the energy sector and beyond. Jeanne Vicerial, a PhD candidate in fashion textiles, is reimagining clothing as an extension of the human body, drawing inspiration from anatomy to create wearable, recycled “skins.”
Vicerial’s work, published in the journal ‘Temes de Disseny’ (which translates to ‘Design Issues’), is a fusion of art, science, and technology. She envisions a future where clothing is not just worn, but grown from the body itself, much like a second skin. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about sustainability and efficiency.
At the core of Vicerial’s research is a unique, hand-crafted process that mimics 3D printing. She creates patterns based on human muscular weaves, using a single recycled thread to form each piece. The result is a garment that exposes the internal construction of the body, a wearable anatomy lesson. “Each piece is a conversation starter,” Vicerial says, “It’s about wearing your body, not just covering it.”
But Vicerial’s vision doesn’t stop at hand-crafted garments. She’s collaborating with engineers to develop a machine that can sew customised apparel based on a 3D body scan. This could revolutionise the fashion industry, eliminating textile waste and proposing a new form of industrial, customised clothing production.
So, what does this mean for the energy sector? Well, consider the energy savings from reduced textile waste and more efficient production processes. Consider the potential for smart fabrics that could interact with wearable technology, monitoring health and energy expenditure. Consider the shift in consumer behaviour, as people move away from fast fashion and towards sustainable, customised clothing.
Vicerial’s work is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary research. It’s a blend of fashion, anatomy, engineering, and sustainability, all wrapped up in a single thread. As she continues her research, she’s not just shaping the future of fashion; she’s shaping the future of how we interact with our clothes and, by extension, our bodies and the world around us. “This is just the beginning,” Vicerial says, “The possibilities are endless.”