The statistic that clothing waste is the second biggest polluter on the planet after oil, inspired Kayleigh Hilde to create materials from bacteria that are sustainable, degradable and create zero waste.

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Kayleigh’s work focuses on reducing the impact that fashion has on the environment and was recently featured in an editorial piece in the latest edition of leading fashion title I-D Magazine in a piece on ‘Fashion’s Sustainable Future’.

Kayleigh, 24, from Burry Port, studied MA Art and Design with Fashion Design Futures pathway at Cardiff Metropolitan University, graduating in November 2018.

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She was selected from top graduates from universities in the UK to be interviewed by Sarah Mower, fashion critic journalist for US Vogue and the Ambassador for Emerging Talent for the British Fashion Council. Kayleigh created designs exclusively for the feature, which were modelled throughout the piece.

Discussing her views on the future of fashion, Kayleigh said

“I believe that the future of fashion could be grown into a waste free industry. If we start looking towards biology to help us create organic materials, we could micro engineer designed bacteria and we could grow any material we needed. A waste free future is something we should strive towards.

“The garments that I have made are my interpretation of how the current and the new material cultures could be integrated together. Marrying old techniques with innovative shapes, cuts, textures and surfaces.”

Irene Dee, Programme Director, Cardiff Metropolitan University, said:

“Kayleigh’s research is just the beginning of breaking new ground with designers working towards re-inventing the way we manufacture and produce materials of the future.

“Relevant sustainable innovation is key to the future of the fashion industry, and it’s exciting to see a Cardiff Met graduate at the forefront of this pioneering work.”