This raincoat by design practice Studio Mesh comprises a zip-up, hooded cape made from recycled materials to offer a more sustainable alternative to umbrellas.
Urbanella is designed to be worn over anything and packed away into a small pouch that fits inside a pocket or bag. The design has been shortlisted for Dezeen Awards 2020 in the wearable design category.
Urbanella is a gender-neutral garment
As well as being stylish and portable, the cape offers a more durable alternative to a standard umbrella.
"Umbrellas are by far the most convenient all-season rain gear, but are not easily recycled and often land up in landfills," said Studio Mesh.
"Nylon is the primary material used in an umbrella. The second material is metal, which is the most sustainable material in an umbrella, however, it is rarely recycled," explained the studio. "Along with this, materials such as fibreglass and plastic are used to offer its folding and clasping mechanisms. The use of multiple materials makes it quite a challenge for recycling."
The cape is made of recycled polyester with a waterproof coating
Once an umbrella is broken or lost, they often end up in a landfill. Studio Mesh created the cape as an alternative wearable version that would keep the wearer dry and fit just easily into a bag when not in use like a folding umbrella.
To fasten or loosen the hood, the wearer tugs on a cord that loops through metal eyelets.
A simple cord tightens the hooded cape at the n...