State of Spore

The trend of using sustainable materials in leather is growing. One example is Milo, a leather alternative made from mycelium. Another example is Oliven Leather, a German company using vegetable tanning agents to create earthy colors. Leather clothing is becoming more flexible and worn-looking, appealing to those who prefer thrifted and pre-loved items. This trend emerged from the 2023 festival scene, where authenticity was valued over luxury. Mycelium is also making its way into the beauty and fashion industries, allowing consumers to feel like they are protecting the planet with their fashion choices. Now onto the state of spore, the trend that encouraged us to work with the world around us, not against it. Here we see two types of use of sustainable materials within leather. The first being the actual leather itself, inspired by Milo, a sustainable leather alternative made from mycelium. The second being the vegetable tanning agent inspired by Oliven Leather, a German leather tanning company creating vibrant, deep, earthy colours, similar to that of what you would find on the forest floor. Gone are the days of rigid leather silhouettes. Barely there, leather tops and bralettes, an essential for festivals, get a whole new sustainable look. With the leather looking worn and lived in, it accommodates the desire for clothing that looks thrifted and pre-loved, rather than fresh out of the factory. This is a common theme that emerged out of the 2023 festival scene, with consumers being more impressed by an authentic, thrifted piece, rather than a luxury, expensive item. Mycelium is taking over the beauty industry and now is expanding its network into the fashion industry. Get ready to see mushrooms everywhere in summer 2024. This trend allows consumers to feel as though they are protecting the planet with their fashion consumption, rather than protecting themselves from the planet.