A new trend in the fashion industry is emerging, focusing on clothing infused with bacteria. This innovative collection includes leggings, bodysuits, and tops embedded with germs, priced between £150 and £180 each. The designers behind this unique line, Paris-based brand Coperni and Swiss biotech experts, claim that these garments help restore the skin’s protective barrier and enhance its natural radiance.
The collection, named Carewear by Coperni, features stretch fabric containing around 140,000 live, beneficial bacteria cells per gram. These bacteria gradually interact with the skin upon wearing the clothing. The active ingredients in the garments are durable, lasting through up to 40 washes. The concept for Carewear arose from the founders’ desire to create garments that not only adorn but also nurture the wearer.
According to the creators, the skin is a living organ that deserves care and attention. They envisioned clothing that could act as a supportive ally, infused with kindness and intelligence. This shift in fashion philosophy emphasizes not just the visible aspects like shape and color but also the unseen elements that interact with the body and contribute to overall well-being.
Carewear’s materials underwent meticulous design to ensure maximum comfort and were dermatologically tested on human skin. Coperni is known for its avant-garde releases, including a previous collaboration with Fabrican that featured a groundbreaking runway moment with Bella Hadid. The brand’s recent Fall Winter 2023 show showcased robot dogs assisting models backstage, exploring the intersection of technology and humanity.
Moreover, Coperni’s innovative approach extends to their accessories, such as bags made from a 55,000-year-old lunar meteorite and transparent glass bags crafted in collaboration with New York glass brand HEVƎN. The brand has garnered a celebrity following, with stars like Gigi Hadid, Billie Eilish, and Kim Kardashian’s Skims brand embracing its unique designs. Coperni’s creations are not just fashion statements but companions in wellness, embodying a more thoughtful lifestyle approach.