Sustainable urban cycling fashion – Master’s Final Work
Urban cycling clothing for women – 2015 Collection
Photography: Beatriz Tafaner
Model: Ana Chi
Urban cycling clothing currently lacks designs that fully address the functional, technical and aesthetic needs of cyclists. This market remains largely unexplored, with most urban bikers wearing either casual everyday clothing or traditional sportswear, neither of which is specifically tailored for urban commuting.
Uyuni – urban cycling clothing merges technology, material research, co-design and sustainable urban mobility. The fabric development process was guided by ethical considerations and the use of advanced scientific innovations. The project aimed to create sustainable urban cycling apparel that integrates smart textile technologies while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental responsibility.
A deep bionic investigation into natural bioluminescence inspired the inclusion of high-reflection and high-albedo materials. As a result, fiberglass and salt crystals were incorporated into the design. Fiberglass, acting as a smart textile, responds to changes in environmental light, enhancing visibility and improving road safety for urban cyclists.
The collection’s name, Uyuni, is a tribute to the world’s largest salt flat, serving as a key reference throughout the design process. This inspiration is reflected in both the material selection and conceptual development, which draw heavily from water and salt. One notable example is the collection’s jewelry, crafted from a water-salt saturated solution, highlighting the fusion of nature, technology and sustainable fashion.
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