Knitwear Using Technology to Disrupt Fashion

Muchaneta Kapfunde | @FashNerdEditor

The world of Unmade is where old-fashioned knitting meets cutting-edge technology.

Founded by Royal College of Art graduates, Ben Alun-Jones, Hal Watts and Kirsty Emery, Unmade, previously called Knyttan, uses coding to power knitting machines as though they are 3D printers. They are proving to be far cry from being just another big knit craze, by ensuring that nothing they produce will be unwanted.

Founded by Royal College of Art trio, Ben Alun-Jones, Hal Watts and Kirsty Emery
Founded by Royal College of Art trio, Ben Alun-Jones, Hal Watts and Kirsty Emery

Supported by Innovate UK, the talented trio are driven by the the “insane” statistics of how many clothes, worldwide, end up in landfills (it’s 10% by the way). That is why they are putting the clothing design into the wearer’s hands. They hope that by involving their customer in the creation of a ‘wanted’ item then they can make a difference in the problem that is mass production.

On this school of thought, Unmade are not alone, another technology enabled Knitwear Company coolly known as Wool and the Gang are also doing their part to prevent waste. Founded by Central St Martin’s graduates Aurelie Popper and Jade Harwood they came into the limelight when they raised an amazing £1million in funding via Crowdcube. WATG have worked with the likes of Giles Deacon and can count model-celeb Cara Delevingne as one of their fans.

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Founders WATG Aurelie Popper and Jade Harwood

What makes WATG and Unmade not another trend, is that they both understand the importance of having technology as an enabler. On this Alun-Jones believes, “Knitting is the future of textiles. All the things people dream of doing with 3D printers is one of the oldest things going.”

What we love most about Unmade is that they offer their customers the kind of experience that allows them to be part of the creation process. You are able to create a merino or cashmere jumper that will be unique to you. As they work with collaborators from across creative industries, they are able to design striking knitwear that you can adapt to your style.

Made in London, stocked in Selfridges and with free delivery on all UK orders, how can you not be on board with a label that is using technology to help you ultimately create a beautifully personalised garment? Prices start from £60.00. You can create your woolly here.

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