Takashimaya launches casual wear made from recycled suits

Takashimaya has launched a new line of casual wear produced from recycled “dormant suits” collected from customers. This initiative is part of the company’s “Depart de Loop” project, which aims to promote a circular economy.

Through a collaborative supply chain, approximately 3,200kg of collected suits were processed. Higashitani Shoten handled the sorting and cutting, Mita Spinning produced recycled yarn by blending it with virgin wool, and Miyuki Woollen Mills wove the final fabric. The resulting 100% wool fabric contains approximately 17% material derived from the recycled suits.

The collection features items such as blousons and trousers from various international brands, including Barstarr, Belvest, and Camo. To address difficult-to-recycle components like interlinings and shoulder pads, Takashimaya partnered with Kyoto Institute of Technology and Joto Techno to develop resin-mixed pellets, which were then used via 3D printing to create store fixtures and hangers.

Takashimaya plans to expand its recycling efforts, with upcoming initiatives including the collection of plastic toys to be repurposed into miscellaneous goods.