The Versatility of Wool in Urban Active wearSüdwolle Group, a German producer of dyed and natural worsted yarns, and a member of the International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO), has announced its latest project, Fashion Meets Function. Created in collaboration with renowned designer Rico Lee, this activewear collection showcases the incredible versatility of Merino wool.

Diving into a detailed, innovative exploration of the wool fibre’s many uses, Fashion Meets Function is a showcase of both style and performance.

A Collection That Breaks Traditional Boundaries

Rico Lee’s beautiful designs come to life through Südwolle Group’s premium Merino wool yarns. Merino wool is much in demand for its luxurious feel and high-performance properties such as moisture wicking, thermal regulation and odour resistance. Thanks to these properties, Merino wool is an ideal fibre for active wear.

The result, the company says, is a collection that breaks traditional boundaries. Each garment is perfect for multiple uses and offers thermal-regulating properties and seamless transitions between different settings. Each piece in the collection is crafted to enhance convenience while maintaining the performance standards expected of high quality wool apparel.

The collection required a balance between fashion-forward aesthetics and the technical demands of functional textiles. A key challenge was creating custom wool fabrics that could offer both comfort and performance, ensuring that the garments would withstand daily wear while maintaining durability.

Fashion Meets Function is made from some of Südwolle Group’s finest yarns, such as Stelvio Betaspun® Nm 100/1, Banda Tec Nm 37/1, and Winton Nm 60/1. These yarns are known for their soft texture, and strike the perfect balance between performance and comfort. Their breathability and dour resistance make it an ideal choice for functional fashion.

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Redefining Activewear

Rico Lee says of the project: “The most exciting part of this project was witnessing how wool can redefine active wear, combining sophistication with high performance.

“This collection demonstrates that wool is not only a fabric for warmth and comfort but is also essential in creating sustainable, eco-friendly active wear, setting a new standard in functional fashion.”

For Südwolle Group, the collection stands as a testament to wool’s potential in performance fashion. The company has plans to explore more rugged, outdoor-focused fashions, with the emphasis on wool’s thermal-regulating and durable qualities. The company continues with its mission to prove that Merino wool truly is the most versatile fibre for use in all kinds of fashions.

Learn All You Need to Know About the International Wool Industry

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