Since inventing the washing process to artificially age denim, François Girbaud has been recognized as one of the leading jeans designers worldwide. He has been at the forefront of innovation in his experimentation and development of materials, treatments and techniques. The focus of his research over the last 25 years has been centered on developing ecologically and ethically conscious methods to advance the cause of sustainability within the textile industry. This denim visionary has become “LE PATRON” of the International Talent Contest for Fashion & Design as well as keynote speaker at the FRANKfurtsyleaward Gala 2016.
“We need to be aware. We are repeatedly confronted by the question of how we can combine aesthetics and sincerity. This is why we continue our research to develop eco-friendly materials.”
In 2010, his company presented jeans produced with water saving methods. True to his motto “Save water, use light,” traditional industrial washes were replaced by an innovative, revolutionary procedure, named WattWash™, that saves approximately 97.5% water. The textile surface is engraved by laser, creating a targeted, faded effect on denim, allowing a multitude of different patterns and textures to be designed and the appearance of the fabric to be transformed.
“We are extremely honoured that the eminent French jeans designer and visionary, François Girbaud, has accepted our invitation to the FRANKfurtstyleaward and to become a figurehead for the international talent contest for fashion and design”, says Hannemie Stitz-Krämer, founder and initiator of the FRANKfurtstyleaward. “This is another great milestone, just ahead of the FRANKfurtstyleaward’s 10th anniversary in 2017.”
“Jeans will never be out of style but that doesn’t mean they always have to look the same,” says François Girbaud. He and his partner, Marithé Bachellerie, continue to experiment, constantly reinventing denim and gaining international recognition for their work.