Caroline Zimbalist x Ultrafabrics at New York Fashion Week 2024

Biotextile artist uses Ultrafabrics to adorn her vessels

New York, NY – August 28, 2024 – Renowned artist and designer Caroline Zimbalist is set to captivate audiences at New York Fashion Week with her inaugural show of innovative bioplastic fashion and accessories collections. One large-scale piece in her show is the result of her collaboration with Ultrafabrics, and sees the brand’s material held in suspended animation within one of Zimbalist’s iconic vessels.

This collaboration is part of Ultrafabrics’ Experience Hue design series, which involves inviting creatives to respond to their aura readings using Ultrafabrics’ materials. This collaboration marks the first time Zimbalist has incorporated textiles into her signature bioplastic vessels. Caroline Zimbalist, known for her mastery of nontraditional processes and techniques, has spent years perfecting her craft with bioplastics. Her education at Parsons School of Design and Central Saint Martin’s in London ignited a passion for avant-garde design, and she has since become a leading figure in using biodegradable and natural materials to create striking, three-dimensional pieces. Her work—ranging from clothing and jewelry to sculptures—has been featured in prestigious venues such as the Whitney Museum gift shop, 1st Dibs, Lovehouse, The Met Gala, Ssense, and Moda Operandi. In this collaboration, Zimbalist and Ultrafabrics merge their creative forces to explore the boundaries of textile innovation.

Employing a mix of plant-based and natural substances—such as starch, glycerin, and agar powder—Zimbalist molds and dyes these eco-friendly bioplastics into organic, versatile forms. The result is a fusion of Ultrafabrics’ high-performance textiles and Zimbalist’s eco-conscious artistry, encapsulated in a piece that demonstrates the possibilities of sustainable design.

“We are thrilled to partner with Caroline Zimbalist for this unique project,” said Nicole Meier, Director of Branding at Ultrafabrics. “Her innovative use of bioplastics and commitment to sustainability resonate deeply with our mission. This collaboration not only showcases the versatility of our materials but also pushes the boundaries of what can be achieved in fashion and art.”

Caroline Zimbalist shared her excitement: “Working with Ultrafabrics has allowed me to explore new dimensions in my craft. By incorporating their materials into my bioplastic techniques, I’m able to create something truly unique that bridges the gap between fashion, art, and ecological responsibility. I look forward to showing this piece as part of my presentation for New York Fashion Week and share it with a broader audience.”

The Caroline Zimbalist X Ultrafabrics piece will be a highlight of Zimbalist’s September 2024 presentation at New York Fashion Week, offering a mesmerizing glimpse into the future of sustainable fashion.

Ends

Editors notes

About Caroline Zimbalist:

Caroline Zimbalist is a visionary artist and designer specializing in avant-garde fashion and sustainable materials. Her unique approach combines biodegradable bioplastics with traditional techniques to create exceptional clothing, jewelry, and sculptures. With a background from Parsons and Central Saint Martins, Zimbalist’s work has been featured in prestigious galleries and retail platforms worldwide.

ABOUT ULTRAFABRICS

Ultrafabrics creates premium, high-tech materials that are reshaping the world of performance fabrics. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2024, the company is the trusted resource when creating beautifully designed and comforting spaces. Rooted in Japanese craftsmanship, Ultrafabrics’ continuous investment in innovation, sustainability, and development has resulted in a range of polyurethane materials suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The brand’s growing client list of luxury brands spans many industries, from residential and contract furniture, to automotive, marine, recreational vehicles, and aviation.