Juan Carlos Gordillo demonstrates the value in reclaimed fabrics, fashioning captivating pieces through audacious creativity, years before their vogue whilst incorporating Tencel.`
In today’s era of heightened environmental awareness, the concept of upcycling has blossomed into a resounding sustainable fashion trend. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the journey to this widespread appreciation wasn’t immediate. Designer Juan Carlos Gordillo, an unsung trailblazer of his time, who recognized the hidden potential within recycled fabrics, particularly the innovative Tencel fibers, long before their current acclaim.
Gordillo’s innovative spirit led him to wholeheartedly embrace the realm of used textiles, diligently scouring secondhand markets for forgotten garments brimming with potential. What initially stemmed from a budget-conscious decision soon transformed into a pioneering venture, breathing new life into discarded materials and fashioning them into fresh, captivating pieces. Gordillo successfully delves into what he fondly termed a “textile treasure,” wholeheartedly acknowledging the origins of his materials, which now include the exceptional Tencel fibers.
The transformative moment arrived during a fateful encounter at the Vienna Fashion Week in 2015. Backstage, Gordillo crossed paths with journalist Laura Adina Achim, whose enlightening conversation shed light on the sustainable essence of upcycling, particularly when involving innovative fibers like Tencel. This encounter marked a pivotal juncture, igniting Gordillo’s comprehensive understanding of the profound impact his eco-friendly collection, now woven with Tencel fibers, held within the realm of ethical fashion and circular processes.
Where Tencel Innovation Meets Sustainability
Gordillo’s latest masterpiece, named ReNacer, effortlessly combines upcycled denim textiles with advanced elements, like the water-free dye process-infused Black Dry Denim from Tejidos Royo. Demonstrating his artistic essence, Gordillo also uses Recycrom dye by Officina+39 to hand-paint textiles using pigments from fabric scraps – a tribute to regeneration and the integration of innovative materials like Tencel.
Gordillo expertly weaves Tencel-based materials into his designs, a thoughtful choice reflecting his strong commitment to sustainability. Gordillo movingly expressed, “When I saw Tencel fiber transform into fabric and understood its biodegradable nature, I knew it was perfect for my creations.” This skillful integration not only enhances the eco-friendliness of his designs but also lays the groundwork for REFIBRA™, adding an extra layer of sustainability to his exceptional artistic vision.
Weaving Principles into Fashion: ReNacer’s Ethical Resurgence
As Gordillo unveils the foundation of his captivating capsule collection, he eloquently emphasizes, ‘Within ‘ReNacer,’ the endeavor extends beyond mere fashion creation. It involves resurrecting ethical and environmental principles intricately woven into each garment. He attributes Tencel to every piece, praising its softness, sustainability, and the unique touch of Tencel innovation.’
In sustainable fashion’s evolution, Juan Carlos Gordillo emerges as an unwitting pioneer. He’s seen as a creative force who skillfully weaves every thread with the remarkable Tencel fibers, infusing purpose and mindfulness into his visionary creations
