Central Saint Martins graduate Scarlett Yang used algae extract and silk cocoon protein to create a glass-like dress that grows over time and can decompose in water within 24 hours.
The biomaterial dress changes shape in response to different humidity and temperature levels, twisting and creasing as these conditions increase.
As the London-based graduate explains, this is variable depending on the geographic location and season that the garment is worn in. During a dry winter, for instance, the garment would stiffen and look more sculptural.
Yang created a glass-like dress from the algae material
When exposed to water, the garment is able to decompose within hours. For example, the material decomposes within one hour when soaked in alkaline water at a temperature of 80 degrees celsius, or in less than 24 hours if soaked in 60-degree-celsius water. Alternatively, the garment would degrade naturally in rain, river or sea water ? another element dependent on the environment in which it is worn.
The biomaterial changes shape in response to different humidity and temperature levels
Yang was initially drawn to developing a biomaterial that can be naturally decomposed after becoming aware of the amount of waste created by the fashion industry.
"After studying fashion for five years at Central Saint Martins I realised how much material waste is generated within traditional fashion design project development," she explained.
"Garment toiles (mock-up models) are made ...