According to YKK, the fabric sheets used in the zipper are made from fibres processed from used clothing and other textile materials.
Created through collaboration with fashion designer Yuima Nakazato and Seiko Epson Corporation, the item appears in the latest Yuima Nakazato Couture Collection, “INFERNO,” which was unveiled in Paris on 8 July 2026.
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The project utilised nonwoven fabric sheets regenerated through Epson’s Dry Fiber Technology for the zipper tape.
This marks the first time such a nonwoven material has been applied as zipper tape.
According to YKK, the development process included extensive studies to ensure proper attachment of the zipper components, given that conventional methods proved unsuitable.
The team also worked to select a suitable slider and improve usability, taking into account the rigidity of the nonwoven tape.
Yuima Nakazato initiated the proposal as part of his ongoing interest in addressing the global issue of clothing waste, notably in regions such as Kenya.
According to the participants, the collaboration aimed to explore new ways of recycling and upcycling used apparel, given the challenges arising from extensive apparel production and waste.
YKK has previously introduced the NATULON Fiber Sourced zipper, which utilises recycled polyester derived from both textile scrap and discarded garments as part of efforts to support a circular economy.
The company intends to use the knowledge gained to further develop EXCELLA zippers for the luxury market.
“YKK will leverage the insights gained from this development to further enhance the value of EXCELLA zippers to meet the diverse needs of customers in the luxury sector,” a company statement said.
