The fashion industry needs to evolve…and fast. Here, innovative textile companies developing plant-based alternatives for a world with less trash and lower emissions. From cactus and mushroom leather to kelp-based nylon and orange silk.
1. AlgiKnit
New York based AlgiKnit is on a mission to develop bio-based, durable yarns from kelp. The yarn is degradable and kelp is renewable—it’s one of the world’ best carbon storers.
Would replace: polyester and nylon
2. Bolt Threads
LA based Bolt Threads manufactures spider silk and MYLO—mycelium based leather. The silk is spun from the same proteins as a spider’s web, created using fermentation and biology (no spider is harmed in the process). Infiniteely renewable mycelium is used to create a fine-leather look a like.
Would replace: silk and leather

3. Mycoworks
Mycoworks is developing a fine mycelium leather alternative.
Would replace: leather

4. DESSERTO
Based in Guadalajara, Mexico Desserto is disrupting the fashion industry with vegan leather made from cactus.
Would replace: leather

5. Orange Fiber
Based in Palermo, Italy Orange Fiber manufactures a sustainable fabric from citrus juice by-products. The result is a natural silky textile for upscale and soft products.
Would replace: silk