On Saturday, April 22, the Cornell Institute for Fashion and Fiber Innovation (CIFFI) will host its 2017 symposium, a conversation on the most recent advances and developments in wearable technology and fashion sustainability.

“We will have four faculty speakers, at least one student speaker, a moderated discussion of industry interests, and presentations of student and postdoc posters and concept products related to wearable technology and sustainability in fashion,” said Fran Kozen, associate director of CIFFI and College of Human Ecology extension associate.

“Some areas of the symposium relate to fabric and fiber modifications; others to clothing design and apparel supply chain issues,” said Kozen. “Attendees will be exposed to, and able to view and discuss, industry directions and trends in these areas.”

Representatives from Hanesbrands Spark Labs, Hanesbrands Dyeing and Finishing Research, UBM Americas, Eileen Fisher, Outdoor Voices, Guest Supply, Wacoal America and the Underfashion Club, Intimate Apparel Journal, Welspun and HLC are expected to participate in the symposium. A gala hosted by the student organization Careers in Fashion Industry will feature an alumni panel of professionals working in the industry who will address ethics and social concerns in fashion.

The College of Human Ecology established the Cornell Institute of Fashion and Fiber Innovation in the Department of Fiber Science & Apparel Design to advance knowledge and foster collaborations between academia and industry in fashion design, marketing and culture, fiber science, technology and materials testing.

The institute seeks to translate innovative research into implementable technologies and products for the benefit of the fiber, textile and fashion industries, with particular focus on functional fibers, performance apparel, smart clothing and sustainable fashion.

Visit the symposium’s registration page for further details.

Stephen D'Angelo is assistant director of communications for the College of Human Ecology.