In our world today, many animals are being hunted and abused for their fur and feathers. Bárbara Ferreira, the author of The Use of Animals Inside the Fashion Industry, stated that “Unfortunately, nowadays a percentage of the world’s supply [of feathers] derives from birds plucked alive . . . The animals go through this process every six weeks.”(1) This usage of animals shows a cruel and inhuman way to collect materials used for clothing. The reason people continue to buy these products is largely due to their performance value (water protection, elasticity, durability, and perceived authentic beauty). Although it is not easy to change an industry, steps must be made toward a more humane, ethical, and sustainable fashion future.
H.A.A.T. (Human Animation of Animal Traits) is a new frontier of fashion that responds to the needs of the wearer by blocking or admitting the elements with the push of a button. This first H.A.A.T prototype is a headpiece that features fibers that mimic swan feathers. As swans swim through the water, their feathers repel the water by layering themselves. Like the feathers of a swan, the fibers on the H.A.A.T device layer when needed and spread apart when needed. No animals were harmed in the making of this fashion. H.A.A.T couture integrates cutting-edge sustainable technology including a new material Flwrdwn made with wildflowers, biopolymer, and aerogel.