Sustainable robot fabrics from Enschede

Hellen van Rees is a Dutch fashion and textile designer based in Twente. She gained international fame after being nominated for various prizes (including a prize for sustainable clothing), and Lady Gaga wore an outfit of hers. In Milan, she presented multiple times in collaboration with the Italian Vogue. She organised various shows in London, Paris and Berlin with Fashion Scout and LVMH. Her work is characterised by innovative, handmade materials, and wearable silhouettes.

Even though Hellen is a busy woman, she takes on new projects regularly. “I recently started a collaboration with the University of Twente to develop a robotic version of my fabric to be applied in the healthcare industry. An example would be to include sensors in clothing that help people with back problems to take on a better working position. By starting new projects and continuing to renew myself, I can always show something beautiful. I think that's important.”