GOT MILK?...The Most Unlikely Of Fabrics

Just when you think you've heard it all, more than likely you really haven't and this couldn't ring more true to the fact since I've just recently discovered that along with the usual fabrics that clothing can be created from, such as crepe, silk, linen and cotton, 'milk' is now on the list to choose from.  I initially thought this was a joke when I first stumbled upon it but after putting in some time researching, the info I found is the real deal.  A young fashion designer from Germany has developed a fabric called QMilch that is produced from the high concentrations of protein called casein found in milk.  This is truly the first man made fabric developed entirely without the use of chemicals or chemical byproducts.  It is said to have a silky feel that is void of any smell.  The fabric is even cited as being healthy in that the wearer will reap the benefits of anti aging since the amino acids in the protein have antibacterial properties that aid in cleaning out the free radicals that we are exposed to every day.  In addition, it's believed to be able to regulate the circulatory system and body temperature...

Anke Domaske, 28 of Berlin is a microbiologist in addition to being a fashion designer.  What an unlikely pairing of career choices eh?  Anyhow, her fashion label called Mademoiselle Chi Chi has become a favorite of stars like Mischa Barton & Ashlee Simpson.  She's honest to state the facts that milk fabric is not a new concept and has been around since the 30's but she does however, redeem kudos for being the first to produce it 'au naturale'.

The whole process is rather interesting to conceive of.  The milk protein is removed from the dried milk powder, heated in a type of mincing machine with other natural ingredients and then the fibers come out in strands that are spun into a yarn on a spinning machine.  Domaske states it would take around 6 liters of milk to make an entire dress and that the finished product would cost around $200 American dollars.  In case you were wondering, the heating of the proteins is what keeps it from decomposing.  Pretty cool!

Scientists have found that this milk fiber can also be used for medicinal purposes and even as an additive to cosmetics.  Some car companies are even considering looking into using the milk fiber for upholstery.


This seriously gives new meaning to the term..."GOT MILK?"

pics: mt-online.de.com, vancouver.com, welt.de.com

Vintage Tapestry Fashions

When you say or hear the word 'tapestry', I'm sure a wall hanging of sorts comes to mind but tapestry fabric has been worn as clothing as far back as the middle ages in the era of castles and chivalry.  Tapestry in layman's terms is an intricate loom woven textile art that has been around for centuries, even dating back as far as the 3rd century BC as Greek tapestries have been discovered and preserved in desert of Tarim Basen.  The usual medium of choice for weaving tapestry is cotton or linen, but for more fancier fare, silk, gold & silver are often used.  It's amazing to look back now with wonder an awe as to how delicate the whole process was with the detailed art work performed with basic means in comparison to what is produced today with technology.  In February of this year, during Milan Fashion Week for Fall/Winter 2011, designer Veronica Etro went Medieval bringing a primitive vibe to tapestry styles...

There's such an absolute rich history behind the fabric that is tapestry and every once in a great while here at Retro Threadz, we are lucky enough to acquire a rare tapestry find.  Stop by the shop to see our new listings this week!  Featured as of yesterday, we are excited to add this 'Vintage 60's Tapestry Go-Go Boots & Handbag set to our collection!

: fashionwindows.net, Retro Threadz