When it comes to fashion, Versace is a name that has become synonymous with luxury and innovation. From their signature prints to their iconic designs, the Italian fashion house has always been at the forefront of the industry. But did you know that Versace also invented a fabric?
The fabric in question is called “Stroma,” and it was created by Donatella Versace in collaboration with Italian textile manufacturer Carvico. Stroma is a stretchy, high-performance material that is used in many of Versace’s designs.
One of the most notable uses of Stroma was in the creation of the iconic “Bondage” dress, which was worn by Elizabeth Hurley at the premiere of “Four Weddings and a Funeral” in 1994. The dress was made entirely out of Stroma and featured gold safety pins holding together its slinky straps.
Stroma is made from a blend of Lycra and elastane, which gives it its distinctive stretchiness. It is also resistant to chlorine and UV rays, making it perfect for swimwear and activewear.
But what sets Stroma apart from other fabrics is its versatility. It can be used for everything from dresses to leggings to jackets, thanks to its ability to mold to the body and hold its shape. And because it comes in a variety of colors and finishes, designers have endless possibilities when working with Stroma.
So while Versace may not have invented fabric per se, they certainly pushed the boundaries when it came to creating new materials. And with Stroma continuing to be a staple in their collections today, it’s clear that innovation remains at the heart of everything they do.
The Benefits of Stroma
If you’re wondering what makes Stroma so special, there are several benefits that make it stand out from other fabrics:
- Stretchiness: As mentioned earlier, Stroma’s blend of Lycra and elastane gives it a unique stretchiness that allows it to mold to the body. This makes it incredibly comfortable to wear, regardless of what you’re doing.
- Resistance: Stroma is resistant to chlorine and UV rays, which means it won’t fade or deteriorate over time.
This makes it perfect for swimwear and activewear, which are often exposed to these elements.
- Versatility: Stroma can be used for a variety of designs, from dresses to leggings to jackets. And because it comes in a range of colors and finishes, designers have endless possibilities when working with Stroma.
The Future of Versace Fabrics
While Stroma may be Versace’s most famous fabric invention, they continue to innovate in this area. In recent years, the company has focused on sustainable materials, using recycled fabrics in their collections.
In 2020, Versace launched its “Greca” line, which features sustainable fabrics made from recycled polyester and organic cotton. The line includes everything from jackets to sneakers and is part of the company’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact.
So while Stroma may have been the first fabric invention from Versace, it certainly won’t be the last. With a commitment to innovation and sustainability, the Italian fashion house is sure to continue pushing boundaries when it comes to creating new materials for their designs.