Imagine jeans that care for you. That’s the concept behind Soorty’s new Collagen Denim.
Described as a “revolutionary blend of advanced technology, wellness science, and denim craftsmanship,” the vertically integrated denim manufacturer debuted the 13 oz. fabric last fall at Kingpins Amsterdam.
Collagen Denim uses Umorfil technology, a state-of-the-art material that upcycles food waste into fabrics with skin-friendly properties. The fabric is enriched with collagen peptide amino acid derived from wasted fish scales, a byproduct of the seafood industry. Known for their moisturizing and soothing properties, the peptides enhance the fabric’s potential to support skin hydration. Soorty uses both viscose and polyester variants of the technology.
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“Our mission is to create pieces that feel intuitive and align with the needs of our brand partners who are serving the modern consumer, blending comfort with performance and mindfulness,” said Eda Dikmen, Soorty’s senior marketing and communications manager.
Rooted in functionality, well-being, and inclusivity, Collagen Denim serves multiple purposes for the denim sector. The fabrics provides exceptional softness, a luxurious hand feel, and superior shape retention for a consistently perfect fit. Additionally, Soorty highlights how the fabrics can be applied to garments tailored for individuals with specific skin care needs.
“To fully leverage the functional benefits of this fabric, we recommend opting for fits that maintain closer contact with the skin rather than looser, baggier styles but it does not have to be limited to skinny jeans of course,” Dikmen said. “The purpose is to help the wearer in maximizing the performance of the fabric.”
Soorty aims to expand the wellness product. “We’re currently working with our brand partners from different markets on alternative constructions as they are exploring how to best integrate the innovation into their collections in the best way aligning with their unique brand DNAs,” Dikmen said.
She added that functionality and well-being in apparel are exciting themes that the mill is actively exploring. “It is multifaceted, ranging from the fibers and materials we use to innovative finishing applications that enhance the wearer’s experience. Our R&D teams are deeply committed to innovation and are currently developing some groundbreaking projects,” she said.
One area Soorty is particularly exciting to explore is adaptive wear. “Apparel designed with inclusivity and accessibility in mind can significantly enhance the lives of individuals with physical disabilities or unique needs. We’re exploring designs that emphasize ease of wear, adjustability, and thoughtful construction, ensuring that wellness is accessible to everyone,” she said.
Though most projects are under NDA until Soorty’s next collection launch, Dikmen said Soorty takes multiple approaches to wellness. “Wellness in apparel isn’t just about physical comfort, it’s about creating a holistic connection to the clothes we wear,” she said. On the physical side, the company is focusing on finishes that enhance skin health, regulate temperature, and offer antibacterial or hydrating benefits. On the mental wellness front, Soorty considers clothing’s power to influence mood and confidence, particularly through color and texture choices.
“In today’s world, where both mental and physical well-being are priorities, we believe our wardrobes have a meaningful role to play about creating a tangible sense of support and empowerment for the wearer. As we continue to innovate, we’re striving to ensure our collections reflect this broader perspective on wellness, aligning with the needs of our diverse and evolving audience,” she said.
Incorporating wellness and beauty benefits into denim is a long-standing focus in the denim industry. 7 For All Mankind introduced the Beauty Jean in 2021, a product line that combined Umorfil and viscose.
In 2019, Naveena Denim promoted Fibra Therapy fabrics, which used Umorfil, Emana fibers to absorb heat from the body and return it in the form of distant infrared rays and copper-based yarns to help restore skin cells.
In 2015, Brazil-based Textil Canatiba offered Beauty Denim, a fabric range that moisturized skin and helped reduce cellulite.
