EE Exclusives and Le Nouveau Chef launch the first ever 3D-woven chef's jacket, developed with the innovative wholegarment weaving technique and designer Kelly Konings. This locally produced product marks a new era in workwear, bringing together sustainability, technology and craftsmanship.
The first 3D woven chef's jacket
For the first-ever 3D-woven chef's jacket, the innovative 3D wholegarment weaving technique was used. This technique makes it possible to create complex structures and shapes that eliminate sewing and cutting. As different layers are already connected in the design. While the 3D technique is already widely used in the field of knitting, there are still many steps to be made in weaving. This not only results in less waste, but also offers flexible production options such as customisation and the use of smart materials. With 3D technology, there is no distinction between the textile and the design of the clothes. The designer and producer come closer together, resulting in a final product that perfectly suits the consumer's needs.
Transformation of the fashion industry
The fashion industry is known for its negative impact on the environment and poor working conditions. Often, the process leads to overproduction with as much as 30% of clothes never being sold and 60% ending up in landfills. With the introduction of 3D woven garments, Le Nouveau Chef and EE Exclusives aim to address these problematic aspects of the industry by reducing waste and eliminating overproduction.
Changing an industry is a long process. It requires time, consumer education and stricter government regulations. This 3D-woven chef's jacket is a start in this slow but necessary process. Over the years, textiles have become secondary to the fashion industry. Priced by fashion, textiles are sourced and produced as cheaply as possible. This locally produced, innovative product symbolises not only innovation, but also the ongoing effort to make the fashion industry more sustainable and ethical. The yarn is homegrown, made by Spinning Jenny and consisting of a mix of discarded workwear, recycled PET and organic cotton.
The start of a new standard
Currently, the textile and fashion industries are far apart. In most cases, a buyer has never visited a weaving factory. The 3D woven chef's jacket is setting a new standard in the textile industry and advocating transparency in the supply chain, while bringing manufacturing and distribution processes closer to home.
A unique product designed to push the boundaries of design and technology, this 3D-woven chef's jacket will be worn by the chefs of Kazerne restaurant during Dutch Design Week. The project will become a white paper as an example for the industry. The chef's jacket will become available during an exclusive auction. The proceeds of this auction will go to charities, making the impact of this project go beyond the fashion industry alone.
The very first 3D woven chef's jacket, a product of Le Nouveau Chef and EE Exclusives that symbolises innovation and sustainability will be launched during Dutch Design Week, marking the beginning of a new standard in culinary fashion and textile production.