9781422272909

example, the clothing articles were representative of the color changes in cells at different stages of cancer, so when the models walked down the runway, each of them represented a different stage

in the same order they would occur in a person’s body. FASHION AND CHEMISTRY

The fabrics that make up the clothes we wear have deep roots in the science industry. The process of creating the fibers that we use to weave clothing is a complicated scientific process that must be completed with great accuracy to ensure the best results. Chemists play a huge role in developing textiles that make up the fabric of our favorite outfits. The Chemistry of Fabric Finishes Many fashion retailers across the globe create garments that are resistant to things like water, oil, and wine. These fabric finishes are specially formulated to make clothes “life-proof.” This means that when you wear garments that are treated with certain chemicals called finishes , the fabric will not absorb water and oil. Instead, the finish creates a barrier, causing the surface of the clothing to repel spills and stains. There are also finishes on the market that protect against a wide host of other elements. For example, one fabric treatment protects against harmful rays from the sun, which prevents fading or the breaking down of fabric over time. Some textile designers even apply chemicals to fabric that soften it, making for a comfortable and cozy outfit after finishing is complete.

9

SCIENCE IN FASHION