Milan, Italy
R|ElanTM Circular Design Challenge in partnership with the United Nations in India kicked off its 6th Global Edition, with the EU Shortlist Jury in Milan, Italy.
CDC challenges participants to think beyond conventional boundaries and explore new ways to integrate circularity into every aspect of their designs. From fabric sourcing and production techniques to end-of-life considerations, the competition pushes designers to reimagine the fashion life cycle. Each year CDC travels across the globe, partnering with global entities like the British Council (UK), Istituto Marangoni (EU), and Redress (APAC) to scout the most exciting innovators in circular fashion. The journey across continents involves impressive juries attended by industry experts and key international media all coming together to select our Finalists.
“For us its the 2nd year that we collaborate with CDC, with the aim to support emerging designers that are a part of our alumni community and can have this amazing opportunity to join the challenge for the European selection chapter”
Christina Cancer, Head of Alumni, Career Service & Industry Relationship, Istituto Marangoni
JURY MEMBERS
“I’m always curious to see how the new generation sees the future, and always hope that they don’t put themselves in barriers. I hope to see things that really make changes”
Sara Maino, Creative Director, Fondazione Sozzani
Hosted at Istituto Marangoni San Babila in Milan this year, the EU shortlist Jury was composed of industry leaders, each with a deep commitment to sustainable practices.
Among them were Francesca Delogu, Francesco Fioretto, Marina Spadafora, Sara Maino and Tiziano Guardini, known for their pioneering work in sustainable fashion.
Their expertise and insights were invaluable in assessing the designs, not just based on aesthetics but also on their environmental and social impact.
DESIGNER SHORTLIST
XU WENYAN
Xu’s circular solutions revolve around using old, discarded vintage textiles to create new garments, giving them a new life and reducing the wastage of resources. She intends to rebuild the conventional idea of ‘fashion’ by way of ‘re-designing’.
KATHERINE SCHEEL
Founder of Pi Yei, Katherine Scheel is passionate about redefining comfort and sustainability in sleepwear. Her creations follow a circular business model which include products made from post-consumer recycled materials or eco-fabrics such as bamboo which need very few vital resources to be produced, are made in energy efficient labour factories and use innovative zero-water printing techniques. Pi Yei aims to be carbon neutral by 2050 as per ONU goals.
With every carefully crafted piece, they offer not just sleepwear but an experience that goes in hand with their customers’ lifestyles and personal values. Their mission is to provide beautifully designed and comfortable pajamas that do no harm to the environment.
LEYLA BABAYEVA
Material selection and Artisanal craftsmanship form the core of Leyla’s work. Her handmade products embody the essence of circularity, seamlessly weaving together artistry and sustainability. Crafted with meticulous care and attention to detail, each piece is a testament to timeless craftsmanship and conscious creation. At the heart of process lies a commitment to sustainability. She meticulously sources materials from eco-conscious suppliers, ensuring that every thread used in my creations is not just beautiful but also environmentally responsible. By prioritising sustainable materials, she minimises her ecological footprint while maximising the beauty and durability of her creations.
WINNER
After careful deliberation, the jury announced Xu Wenyan as the 2024 EU Finalist of R|ElanTM Circular Design Challenge in partnership with the United Nations in India.
Combining a love for Italian vintage craftsmanship with a commitment to sustainability, Wenyan Xu’s Saltless reuses discarded vintage clothing, waste from tailoring, deadstock and surplus textiles to re-design and give a new life to fabrics.
WHAT’S NEXT at CDC 2024?
While R|ElanTM Circular Design Challenge in partnership with the United Nations in India will culminate in a final runway show this October in New Delhi, where the 6 Global Finalists will pitch their innovations to win the Challenge, CDC’s impact extends far beyond the event. For each shortlisted designer, the competition serves as a launching pad for their careers, providing them with exposure and opportunities to widen their horizons in the sustainable fashion landscape.
0 Comments