Apparel with Purpose – Technical Solutions

From December 6th to 7th, Kwantlen Polytechnic University held their Technical Apparel Design graduating class exhibition of innovative products at Dudoc Vancouver. They premiered creative and well researched designs featuring the intersection between technology, technical expertise and apparel.

The Wilson School of Design students also did presentations of their final projects which were very well received by the Industry Committee of leaders in apparel and technology, retailers and professors. The following day, a public reception and mini-presentations were held for a wide range of industry, designers, alumni, faculty, fellow students, friends and family. This group included well established designers and tech enthusiasts.

Inspired by nature and the city, the apparel prototypes were researched, designed, built and tested for their beneficial applications. Three students created clothing to improve a cyclist’s ride. One student designer used a fabric which is resistant to damage from falls, retains heat, keeps the cyclist dry while also looking very professional for important office meetings!  Another student designed better fitting cycling shorts for women to help reduce friction and injuries when mountain biking. To avoid unwelcome sweat stains on the back when cycling, someone else designed a commuter backpack with good airflow while also minimizing pressure on the back.

Women in any sport often have challenges finding a comfortable bra. One student’s extensive research resulted in a bra which helps reduce pain, irritation and injuries during active workouts.

For the fly fishing specialist, another graduate designed a brace to increase casting accuracy which also helps reduce injury. Wherever we go now in the city or outdoors we seem to have a number of gadgets to take along. One student created a compact, easily portable and multi-compartment bag to help transport our many tech gadgets!

Each student’s thorough research helped identify leading edge materials to accomplish their goals. Their designs also showed a deep understanding of the physical human condition and how it relates to the apparel we choose to live our lives in.

The Wilson School of Design graduation activities were also an opportunity for the Dudoc team to explain some of our innovative products and for visitors to browse through the showroom. As apparel specialists, attendees were particularly interested in Sheltersuit, the award winning Dutch designed garment which combines a very warm jacket with a sleeping bag for refugees and homeless people. Others were drawn to the top calibre crafts displayed by Belgian House and the wooden Bough Bikes attracted the cyclists in the crowd. For some with a broad interest in design, sustainability and innovation, Duraflow’s phase changing cooling and heating system and the TS&S wireless security system were of interest. Several of the industry specialists are interested in continuing the discussions with Dudoc.

Dudoc Vancouver was very pleased that the well regarded Wilson School of Design choose our space to showcase their exhibit on the intersection between innovative technologies and apparel. We look forward to hosting other creative designers in the future to expand awareness and use of our space as an access-to-innovations centre and hub.