Sometimes, the fashion and automotive industries work hand in hand, as we’ve seen many apparel companies (and designers) leaving their distinctive style on various limited edition automobiles.
This time, however, the roles have changed, as a London-based fashion house presented a carbon-fiber dress, inspired by BMW’s i program and specifically, the i8.
24-years ago, the McLaren F1 was the first production car to use a carbon-fiber monocoque chassis, back when the standard grade compound’s cost was prohibitive for most vehicles. Nowadays, thanks to the advances in technology, the material has become more accessible and malleable, being used for a variety of purposes.
Even so, the fully sustainable material is not yet available to the fashion industry in large quantities, that’s why the “Carbon Dress” was created using carbon from BMW’s i plant.
The dress took over 100 hours to make and carbon material makes up 97% of it. It features a unique texture and provides a futuristic finish, remaining lightweight and strong, as Daniela and Annette Felder – the twin design duo responsible for the dress – commented:
“The carbon fabrics are amazing and unlike anything we’ve used before – we are honoured to be given access to them before anyone else. The woven fibre allows us to do more with the designs and push the boundaries of sustainable fashion.”
This is the second year Felder Felder has collaborated with the German car company in order to create a sustainable, greener collection. So, if the missus is saying she’s got nothing lightweight and strong to wear, point her to the nearest BMW carbon-fiber plant.
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