INVISTA, owner of the original elastane LYCRA® fibre, has announced an exciting new tool: the LYCRA® Bra Fabric Finder™. Created to help casual bra designers select the most optimal fabric to deliver improved garment performance, the platform was unveiled at Interfilière Paris and is a response to the current consumer-driven shift towards casual bras including wire-free bras, sports bra, bralette or bandeau.
While garment design and construction remains important to bra quality and performance, INVISTA knows fabric selection is critical when it comes to deconstructed, casual bras. This innovation can help designers easily identify the best fabric construction and help add functionality to any casual bra collection.
The LYCRA® Bra Fabric Finder™ allows casual bra designers to identify the desired comfort and support level they need. Active fabrics are meant for high support and medium comfort, ideal for a more dynamic look or for light physical activities such as yoga; everyday fabrics grant a mix between comfort and support; and leisure fabrics provide high comfort and medium support.
Designers can also choose based on the shaping type: natural shaping for a softer, truer silhouette, or power shaping for more defined curves. Fabrics go through a rigorous testing process to ensure it meets the predetermined parameters of each IP- protected index. As a result, designers will be able to create the perfect casual bra that delivers the shape and support women need, and the comfort they want.
“Today, women want to be the best they can be and they’re tired of having to sacrifice support and shape for comfort—they want it all,” said Melissa Minihan, Vice President of Marketing, Intimate Apparel at INVISTA. “Casual bras are not a fad that will die out. Their widespread, global appeal represents a style evolution, and the LYCRA® Bra Fabric Finder™ will make it easier than ever before for brands to meet this growing demand and gain market share.”
