Revolutionising swimwear with EcoMade Fiber

At MarediModa 2025, the leading European trade show for beachwear, lingerie, and athleisure fabrics, Lycra is redefining sustainability in the apparel industry. Hosted in Cannes from October 22 to 24, the event sees Lycra unveiling its renewable EcoMade fibre – a groundbreaking elastane partially made from plant-based materials. This innovative fibre offers the same high-performance qualities as the original Lycra fibre while significantly reducing the environmental footprint of apparel. Designed as a drop-in solution, EcoMade fibre allows manufacturers to seamlessly integrate sustainability into their production processes without the need for re-engineering fabrics, patterns, or workflows. Commercial availability is expected later this year, marking a major milestone in sustainable textile innovation.

Collaboration as the Key to Innovation

A standout feature of MarediModa 2025 is the Fireside Chat titled “From Fibre to Sustainable Swimwear: A Blueprint for Collaboration,” scheduled for October 22 at 3:00 p.m. Representatives from Lycra, Arena, and Carvico will share insights into how their partnership is driving transformative change in the fashion industry. This collaboration highlights the power of shared values and goals in accelerating the adoption of sustainable solutions. Visitors to the Lycra Brand Lounge can explore nine swimwear designs by Arena and five athleisure garments by Carvico, all crafted with EcoMade fibre, demonstrating the material’s versatility and potential.

A Showcase of Sustainable Design

The Lycra Brand Lounge offers an immersive experience, featuring an LED wall that broadcasts the brand’s new “ALL IN” positioning alongside product videos. A unique exhibit within the lounge provides a detailed look at the ingredients used to create EcoMade fibre, offering attendees a behind-the-scenes view of its sustainable production process. Alistair Williamson, Vice President EMEA & South Asia at Lycra, emphasises the role of collaboration in driving innovation: “True innovation in sustainable fashion doesn’t happen in isolation – it’s built through collaboration. Our partnership with Arena and Carvico showcases what’s possible when brands, mills, and fibre innovators unite to advance a more sustainable future for apparel.”

Paving the Way for Circular Fashion

MarediModa 2025 underscores the growing demand for sustainable practices in the fashion industry. Lycra’s EcoMade fibre represents a significant step forward, providing manufacturers with a practical solution to meet consumer expectations for environmentally responsible products. By combining cutting-edge technology with a commitment to sustainability, Lycra is helping to shape a more circular and collaborative future for fashion.