PANTHER DENIM’S MILESTONE IN SUSTAINABLE FASHION

OON A MISSION to create a more sustainable denim industry since 1986, fully integrated textile manufacturing company Panther is looking to take its efforts one step further. And it starts with its latest innovations.

Here, Tim Huesemann, sales director at Panther Denim, tells Rivet how it produces trendy pieces without compromising sustainability and comfort.

RIVET: How is Panther’s latest linen-inspired denim a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional linen?

TIM HUESEMANN: Launched at Kingpins New York in January, our product has garnered praise from customers for its lightweight feel and linen-like aesthetic. While it’s difficult to definitively claim that our linen-inspired denim is inherently more eco-friendly than traditional linen, both products align with sustainable development goals. However, we can confidently assert that our linen-inspired denim surpasses conventional cotton in terms of eco-friendliness, primarily due to the inclusion of Tencel fiber, which constitutes 31 percent of the fabric composition. This marks a significant improvement over fabrics made solely from 100 percent cotton.

Another notable sustainable feature lies in the dyeing process, which integrates with laser technology. For an environmentally safe end product, we recommend a simple rinse wash coupled with subtle laser printing.

What are some of Panther’s other recent breakthroughs in sustainable development and fashion trends?

T. H.: We’re excited about the update to our C-Zero collection, marking a significant milestone in sustainable fashion. This innovative line boasts zero water usage in production, elevating hand-feel and fabric texture to new heights.

Our color denim, free from water consumption, is available in many hues, with blue tones serving as a standout alternative to conventional indigo dye.

It is engineered for a soft touch with a vintage flair reminiscent of the iconic Levi’s look, yet infused with the distinctive feel of LA premium denim.

We’re also thrilled to introduce our latest concept, On the Go denim. This lightweight denim, enhanced with added stretch, is tailored for everyday wear and adaptable to any occasion. Since its launch, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, prompting us to expand it in our FW25 collection. Catering to the preferences of the new generation, who seek jeans that don’t feel rigid and can be worn with ease like pants, On the Go is our solution to this.

Denim production is notoriously water consuming. What role does Panther’s laser wash technology play in conserving water?

T. H.: We have a laser-friendly denim collection, LaserFit, crafted specifically for laser washing techniques. This innovative fabric withstands high-clearance washing without compromising the integrity of its indigo shade. Our laser-friendly dye is versatile and suitable for both conventional and laser washing methods.

But we’re not stopping there. We’re committed to sustainability by aiming to recycle 20 percent of our water waste within our production plant. This marks just the beginning of our recycled water project, with 2024 set as our target year to achieve this initial milestone.

“SUSTAINABILITY WILL CONTINUE TO PLAY A SIGNIFICANT ROLE… BUT THERE’S A GROWING DEMAND FOR FRESH INDIGO AESTHETICS.” — TIM HUESEMANN, sales director, Panther Denim

What is your top business prediction for the denim industry this year?

T. H.: Sustainability will continue to play a significant role in the denim market, but there’s a growing demand for fresh indigo aesthetics as well. Consumers are eager for innovation in their wardrobes.

For years, the market has been saturated with open-end and vintage marbled looks. However, as consumers accumulate more vintage denim in their wardrobes, their desire for novelty increases.