INNOVATE & CREATE Jeans Innovation Story: Vol.3
Evolving with the Times, Crafting Premium Jeans
In Autumn 2016, Fast Retailing established the Jeans Innovation Center (JIC) in Los Angeles with one objective in mind: gather an archive of samples, trends and fabrics in a single location to craft timeless pairs of jeans. Equipped with cutting-edge technologies and operated by renowned specialists, the JIC works tirelessly to craft innovative jeans that will define the future of fashion.
The JIC is re-evaluating not only the development of denim fabric, but the very nature of jeans themselves. Partnering with J BRAND to ensure there is no compromise on style, silhouette, and comfort, the JIC strives for flawless authenticity using state-of-the-art processing methods.
A Breakthrough Stage in Innovation
In addition to using a groundbreaking approach to design, the JIC strives to revolutionise the manufacturing process. With that goal in mind, JIC specialists have completed their latest venture: an environmentally-friendly denim processing method that significantly reduces water usage.
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Because the washing stage is critical in creating a comfortable pair of jeans, water remains an indispensible element of production. However, the JIC’s new reduced-water processing method has drastically reduced total water usage. Compared to previous washing methods, the reduced water method brings water usage down on average by 90%, but can be as high as 99%.*
*When comparing water usage between UNIQLO’s 2017 edition Men’s Regular Fit Jeans and a similar product in 2018.
The JIC’s facilities use lasers, bio-washing, nano-bubbles and other cutting-edge equipment and techniques to make JIC’s reduced-water processing method truly unique. Despite this, the JIC never sacrifices fashion in favour of function; reduced-water processing does nothing to detract from quality or style. Through trial, error and great consideration towards environmental responsibility, the JIC’s novel techniques have produced effortlessly stylish and remarkably eco-friendly jeans.
A Small Step Towards Major Reform
In the near future, Fast Retailing will craft all its jeans using this reduced-water method. But a re-evaluation of production techniques is just one step towards a brighter future characterised by exciting, boundless innovation. In conjunction with growing efforts to reduce the load on the environment and improve workplace conditions, Fast Retailing aims to one day create “waterless” jeans that entirely remove water from the manufacturing process.
At Fast Retailing, it is paramount that jeans are made with design, comfort and environmental responsibility in mind. This is the LifeWear that drives UNIQLO at its core – an endless pursuit of the infinite possibilities offered by fashion and technology. Above all, we aspire to steer the world towards a better future.
The revolution in denim has only just begun.
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