As the colder months of the year rapidly approaches the streets of New Zealand, so too will warmer fashion items and accessories.
Brand marketing and communications manager at Icebreaker, Krysia Drecki, said that the Icebreaker Autumn and Winter collection for 2023 has been inspired by nature.
“This season, we celebrate nature for the high-performing fibres it provides, the colours and patterns that inspire our designs, and the way it enables us to create no-compromise natural innovations. We’re affirming our position as leaders in the natural performance landscape. Natural performance is in our fibres, our products, our innovations, and it’s in our nature,” said Drecki.
Icebreaker believe that when it comes time to source materials, nature is the best way to find natural and renewable fibres for garments.
“Merino wool sets the basis of our clothing and today, our business reflects our dedication to natural fibre solutions. 95 percent of our global fabric consumption is a natural or plant-based fibre and only five percent of all fibre used is from petrochemical-based synthetics,” said Drecki.
This Autumn / Winter season, Icebreaker has introduced its first-ever 100 percent natural outer layer. Shell+ is made from entirely natural fibres that are pre-stretched, woven together and then released to create a super-dense fabric. Shell+ is a natural alternative to synthetic jackets, that can also help with protection from the elements.
MerinoLoft is a new natural alternative to the famous puffer jacket look, which uses natural merino wool as insulation. The MerinoLoft also offers a high warmth-to-weight ratio, which can assist with keeping warm during cold weather.
RealFleece is another addition which is made using authentic materials as well. RealFleece products are made from merino wool fibres loosely spun into a fluffy and textural yarn, creating a soft fleece-like pile. Plant-based Tencel Lyocell is then used to tightly knit the baselining of the fabric, securing the yarn and together creating the soft, cosy shearling fabric.
Drecki said that this season, Icebreaker has made giant strides towards its move to natural, and has made ambitious goals to be 100 percent plastic free.
“We launch three exciting winter innovations (a natural puffer jacket, luxurious brushed fleece and innovative element-resistant merino) to build on our top to toe 100% natural layering system,” said Drecki.
Icebreaker has examined what the best designs for its products are, and Drecki said that the answer was simple.
“We focus on classic, simple, and versatile pieces with function-led design, powered by natural performance materials that won’t go out of fashion.”
The ethical and sustainable practises implemented by Icebreaker has allowed its Autumn and Winter collection to be strong. Drecki noted that the company is determined to reduce its impact on the environment, and is embarking on a regenerative journey.
“We’re focusing on regenerative farming principles and renewable resources to help lighten our environmental footprint,” added Drecki.
