Lee welcomes new dyeing techniques and partnerships
Kontoor Brands-owned Lee recently announced a new water-saving dye technique for denim, which “drastically” reduces the amount of chemicals needed and thus more easily allows for the recycling of water at the dyeing stage.
The technique, called Crystal Clear, reportedly uses unspecified “organic” ingredients in the dye bath, which enables the reuse of water and, by extension, reduces the amount of waste, water and energy needed to manufacture denim.
“Crystal Clear represents a significant step forward in the history of denim production and one we are really proud to be implementing at Lee Jeans,” the company said.
Meanwhile, Lee also recently collaborated with Los Angeles-based streetwear brand The Hundreds on a co-branded workwear-inspired collection, featuring denim jeans and jackets, plus t-shirts and sweatshirts.
In a discussion between the two brands posted online, Lee’s vice president of global design, Betty Madden, reemphasised how the brand’s goal is to use 100% laser dyeing methods by 2023.
She also revealed to The Hundreds’ managing editor, Duke London, how ongoing conversations at Lee are currently centred around partnering with companies who work in the repurposing (or upcycling) sphere.
“The future is in what you do with your waste,” Ms Madden said. “If you’re going to leave it on the cutting room floor, what can it be repurposed into? This is a big topic of conversation - especially with our supply chain - and we do some of that, but I think we want to do it in a bigger way.”
